Specializations

Each specialization requires a certain set of skills. Here is an overview of common specializations and the skills required.

3D Print Modeler | Product Modeler

Sculpting | Vertex Painting

Creates 3D models that are meant to be printed or displayed digitally.

Concept Artist

Sculpting | Vertex Painting | Lighting | Materials

Creates models that are used as references for production modelers.

Game Artist

Low Poly Modeling | Retopology | Rigging | Animation | UV Mapping

Creates low poly models that prioritize performance for games.

3D Character Artist (animation)

Low Poly Modeling | Rigging | Animation

Creates low poly models that are fit for animation. May also rig and animate characters.

Technical Artist

Retopology | Rigging | UV Mapping | Lighting | Materials

A technical artist are found in bigger teams. Technical artists are the glue between disciplines. For example, a technical artist may receive a high poly sculpt from a sculptor and then prepare a low poly retopologized mesh, then UV unwrap the mesh, then project details from the high poly mesh onto the low poly one, then hand off the new mesh to an animator.

Technical artists may also specialize in materials, lighting and effects. They often write simple scripts to achieve their goals (technical artists are also programmers).