Expert: Olaf Piesche - 5/12/2005

Question
Hi Olaf,
I am a very passionate of 3D graphics, mainly modeling, so I am thinking seriously about work in the game industry.
As I saw you have a long experience working with it, I would like to ask you what should I do, study to get better chances to get a job in this area?What sugestions or tips do you have?
Thank you anyway for your atention!
Best regards!  

Answer
Being passionate about what you do is the #1 requirement. While a degree in a related field won't hurt, one of the most important things is to have a comprehensive portfolio of work that you have done. Wether it's stuff that you have done just for yourself or in the course of another job doesn't matter - as long as it shows off what you can do. Be versatile and build a good collection of work demonstrating your abilities. You might want to build a web page showcasing your work that you can refer to when you apply for a position. Other than that, you simply have to be persistent - not any company will have a position that matches your skills, so if at first you don't succeed, try again. Continuously keep improving your portfolio and include work showing your skills in all possible different areas of 3D modelling, texturing and animation.