You're a 3D modeler who wants to stay ahead of the game. What skills should you develop next?

I believe Combining 3d modelling with photorealistic rendering and post work keeps you ahead at all times. Ofcourse lot of research is involved.

the ability to script and program emerges as a game-changer. Scripting and programming empower you to automate routine tasks, innovate with custom tools and features, and seamlessly adapt your models for diverse platforms and engines. Whether it's leveraging Python to enhance functionalities in Blender, Maya, or Houdini, or applying C# for developments within Unity or Unreal Engine, these competencies unlock a new realm of efficiency and creativity.

This is a very, very broad question. First we need to determine what context you're modelling for. There is little point learning how to generate a thousand different houses with VEX or python if you're modeling something that needs to be mathematically perfect or replicates a real work object, eg a specific car, an animal, games console. These examples represent two completely different workflows. More information is required to answer the question accurately

I think that using models, e.g. in Unity, that change shape in real time is now an interesting skill to learn, just as keeping track of what Blender can do is super important, the same applies to Houdini, Python basics can do wonders in model animation.. .

In the AEC industry, structural 3D modeling must follow certain design standards, like AISC 360 or Eurocode 3. Because of that, the individual elements must always follow the same core design principles. This creates an opportunity to automate processes for creating new geometry according to these standards. Some helpful tools are: * Macros / Parametric components: a restraints-based approach to generate parts with predefined geometric rules. * Python / C# scripts: to use with APIs to generate new geometry. * Grasshopper 3d: a graphical programming language to generate parametric elements. * VBA / Office Scripts: for managing information flows and outputs of the model. Automating processes is difficult, but it has a high ROI over time.

AR and VR are necessary technologies to get the complete immersion feeling into digital 3D worlds. It is important to callibrate the position in this world to get a proper sense of height and overall visuals. Note that materials setup may work differently in such projects.

As a 3D modeller the two skill you should be expert are simulation (optimization) and Rendering (Marketing Tools). These skills helps to be one step ahead of others. This will also help to reduce the lead time of a product to be launched in the market.

Again, this needs a more defined question. At present XR modelling falls into a broad lowpoly modelling category due to the limitations of current hardware that runs XR / AR / VR. You need to have a very firm grasp of texture baking, uv mapping strategies, third party rendering solutions like Octane or Redshift. You also need a general understanding of Three.js, gla’s, glb’s, gltf, used, etc etc. Suffice to say you need a lot of knowledge to be good at it.

Language program, for develop AI. Make all data to be integrated, and monitor it. Aplication shall be to be bridge for all 3D software, such as, P&ID, piping 3D, Material control, and drawing.

Learn to use one tool incredibly well. If that is C4D, Max, Houdini, Modo itdoesnt matter. The principals are ALL the same. Study real-world lighting techniques from photographers. Learn about camera techniques, these are the foundations of understanding how to fake stuff in 3D. These skills can then be used in other programs, the actions / processes might have different names but the fundamental principals remain consistent.

Rendering is everything. The more fine and realistic it is. the better the results. In various fields like computer graphics, architecture, and art, rendering plays a pivotal role in achieving lifelike representations. The level of detail and realism in rendering directly impacts the quality and immersion of the final product. Fine-tuned rendering techniques enhance visual fidelity, creating compelling and believable experiences for viewers.

To achieve photorealism you need to get lighting, colors and object scale right. In addition to this, using a proper renderer for the job you get to set up physically accurate materials to finish it off. Some good renderers are V-ray, Blender Cycles, Unreal Engine.

PreVisualise any 3D model thoroughly, keep the mesh topology in mind, model the object exactly matching the reference or the need, smooth looking mesh & texturing comfort UV’s & good to go with lighting & rendering

You want to be able to use a render to display your product to potential customers. Their expectations for appearance will be set by your renders. To avoid disappointment or confusion renders need to be good. Studying photography and understanding all that makes a photo look "real" will be essential to creating an honest and convincing image of your product to customers.

Sculpting can be used in prop assets to create high-poly detail which can then be baked onto a normal map on a low poly mesh. For example, curtains, clothing wraps, damaged rocks, indents, irregularity... Otherwise, it can create natural shapes which will result in believable 3D models, unlike the non-sculpted instances that can appear computer generated. For characters sculpting is used to add wrinkles, aging, eye sockets, pores and more organic details. Common software for use in software is ZBrush but I found that Blender sculpting tools are not bad either if you are working on indie titles. Mudbox is somewhere in bettween Mudbox and Zbrush in my opinion.

I did little on sculpting though honing my skills, here's what I can say based on this: 1. Master Blender's sculpting tools. 2. Study human anatomy basics. 3. Practice regularly for improvement. 4. Use references for accuracy. 5. Experiment with different styles. 6. Seek feedback for growth. 7. Learn digital sculpting techniques. 8. Attend workshops for further learning. 9. Analyze master artists' work. 10. Keep pushing boundaries and experimenting. I do use Blender 3D for this entirely

Something to consider is that rigging doesn't necessarily mean characters. I've modeled motorcycles, for example, and needed to make it easy for the animator to make the wheels spin. Once I made a superhero character that, when the mask was switched off, also flipped the texture so that the 'eye shadow' wasn't on as well. It's simple to do but also considered 'rigging'. If you think about what the animator will need you'll save them time and the studio money. That always looks good especially at referral time. :)

This is a job that is often very brain heavy when setting up complex models. This means that those less willing to do so are less likely to survive any restructuring. THe ability to do it well also adds an addition position you can apply for if you move between studios each contract.

I absolutly love animation and rigging and I can say: 1. Master animation principles. 2. Become proficient in rigging. 3. Study movement and expressions. 4. Refine timing and pacing. 5. Use animation layers effectively. 6. Understand graph editors. 7. Create dynamic poses. 8. Collaborate with teams. 9. Stay updated with industry trends. 10. Practice regularly for improvement.

As a 3D modeler constantly exploring new workflows, I'm fascinated by how AI is reshaping our craft. Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) and 3D diffusion models are at the forefront, turning the impossible into reality. With NeRF, we can transform simple photos into stunning 3D environments, opening doors to creating more immersive game worlds. 3D diffusion models elevate texture creation, making digital scenes nearly indistinguishable from real life. Of course, I can empathize with artists who fear tools like these because of future replacement and automation. Try thinking about it more from the standpoint that these tools simply push the boundaries of creativity farther than they were before. The workflows may change; the art doesn't

Something to always keep in mind is that although it is important to master one software, it is also important to not limit yourself to know or learn from one particular software. What you learn in one can be transferred into another. This helps you to: - Think outside of the box. - See and consider different approaches - Broaden your skillset

I would research on photogrammetry and how to clean / optimize / transfer assets to production level. I would look into toolset for Gaussian splat technic and above all always push my boundaries

Another factor to consider is the value of storytelling in animation. Having a solid sense of storytelling may drastically improve your work, regardless of your role—whether you're an animator, modeller, rigger, or anywhere else in the production pipeline. Understanding narrative structure, character development, and pacing can help you create more engaging and emotionally impactful animations. Whether you're working on a short film, a video game, or a commercial project, the ability to effectively express a story through animation may distinguish your work and create a lasting impact on your target audience. Technical skills are important, but storytelling enhances work and leaves a lasting impression.

AI can half down amount of work by applying materials and shading parameters on a untextured scene. It can be used for texturing work and generating conceptual images.