Secrets to Finding a Job in Computer Graphics. Part 1

[Insert any cliche line from how to find a job books. For example, "So you've finally decided to make the leap into the world of CG"]

For the life of me, we're not going down that path and no one should be getting the normal talk to on how to find work in the computer graphics industry, mainly because its not normal. While finding a job in the industry, you'll run into tons of characters both animated and in real life, and there are many hurdles that could make reaching your dream job a nightmare. However, you can make it and earn that fantastic job, if you follow these simple steps compiled from years of experience in the industry.

But first, you must understand the bumps and bruises along the way:

1. Competition.

In computer arts the main language that is spoken is ascetics , and how pleasing something is to the eye. Thus, this language is spoken around the world, and so no one job is restricted to location, which creates millions of applicants.

2. Degree vs. Non-Degree.

For many of us, learning animation and modeling started at home with no teacher and no classroom, and it can be argued that we learned principles that could never have been taught at school. Today, many universities have just began to implement 3d design into their art programs and this has baffled many job recruiters who now have to answer, can lessons be learned at school that couldn't be self taught and what are the importance of grades in the industry? The point is that the answers to those questions are all subjective and do not be surprised if a college grad or self learner, gets hired over you.

3. Entry Level.

At any job, being entry level is tough. However, for people who love their own work, it can be even more of a burden as they can often find themselves working on projects that they don't care for. This can result in poor effort and a bad end result. Understand that you are working for someone who has been at the job longer than you, and although you might have years of experience, you still have to work your way up and gain the approval of your co-workers.

4. Everything is Fun until its work.

Can you imagine working all day on modeling, and then coming home to model some more? Often, this doesn't happen as sooner or later we get sick of what we are doing and can't continue doing the same thing especially at home. Working at home was easy when we were single and building our portfolio, but with a job and maybe kids, exhaustion and priorities set in and "[file name].max" can't be given as much attention as it once did.