CompuServe Thread

#Making money!

15 messages in this thread
#104289From: Mike StapletonMay 27, 1994 4:45 AM
Can anyone out there who has had experience making money in 3D graphics give me some hints on how to get started? I don't have 3DS but am thinking about taking a class on it. Would this be a good idea? I am very interested in making my living doing this because I know I could do it all day long and not feel like I'm working(wouldn't that be nice). Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks
#104317From: Thomas O'DeaMay 27, 1994 8:49 AM
Join the club, chief! [Am I working? (YES) Then why am I listening to music on volume 15? (Because Your Job Rules)].
#104370From: M. G. BATCHELORMay 27, 1994 12:13 PM
After you've done enough all-day sessions, believe me – you'll feel like you've done some work <g>. BILL
#104421From: John EllisMay 27, 1994 6:13 PM
>> After you've done enough all-day sessions, believe me – you'll feel like you've done some work. <g> << You've got it light, don't you Bill! More like all day all night all day all night all day all night! <g> Finally pass out from sheer exhaustion… Now that's more like it. Sure its fun for those inclined, but a lot of people don't have the patience or the sheer brute will to complete a project on budget in time with satisfactory results. A guy called looking to get into animation. I said "are you willing to give up your wife, your house, your dog, your boat, your social life, your health…. " Yeah? Well then you just might make it. <g> Actually I just smile when people tell me they want to get into animation. Then I give them a half crazed look and roll my eyes around. <BG> -JE P.S. Its been a heck of a week, so excuse me! It better be Friday! ;-/
#104486From: M. G. BATCHELORMay 28, 1994 12:08 AM
<< I said "are you willing to give up your wife, your house, your dog, your boat, your social life, your health…. " >> I never had a boat <g>. BILL
#104505From: John EllisMay 28, 1994 4:19 AM
>> I never had a boat. << Ah well, then I guess it was a lot easier for you! <BG> -JE
#104562From: M. G. BATCHELORMay 28, 1994 11:58 AM
Note that I *_have_* given up all those other items though <g>. BILL
#104563From: John EllisMay 28, 1994 12:06 PM
>> Note that I *_have_* given up all those other items though <g>. << Yeah… Well I gave up my boat, I don't have a dog, but I'm working on the rest. <g> -JE P.S. Of course its not a pre-requisite, you just have to be willing. 😉
#105225From: chris murrayJun 1, 1994 10:00 PM
Mike, first, get 3DS and learn your guts out. Study the tapes, read the books, and "listen" (as well as "talk") to the people up here. Second, go to the bookstore and get "The Graphic Artists Guild Handbook: Pricing and Ethical Guidelines." Once you feel confident in your ability and have the work to prove it, don't undersell yourself. 3DS is a serious tool. Your prices should reflect it. I'm not saying charge the big bucks right out of the gate, but be fair to your experience level. Good luck…
#105239From: Mike StapletonJun 1, 1994 11:47 PM
Hey thanks for the info on how to get started with 3DS. Do you think it would be a good idea to try and get started with a company that uses it or to start freelancing first? Also, do you know of any ways I can get a full copy of 3DS without having to pay the $2500? Like maybe a used copy? Thanks.
#105377From: Ray FalcioneJun 2, 1994 1:17 PM
Hi Mike, ..Do you think it would be a good idea to try and get started with a company that ..uses it or to start freelancing first? I can tell you of my experiences, if you are new to this industry, it is a good idea to start with a company that has the resources available for you to learn. You can learn a great deal if the company's structure is conducive for learning and experimenting with new techniques and technology. Depending on you life situation, responsibilities, goals and background, you might want to consider looking for a company where you can develop marketable skills. Computer animations, naturally, will always be dealing with the latest technology. This, however, can be expensive when looking at the cost of computers, software and video equipment. This can be a major tax on freelancers who are just starting. If you decide to start out as a freelance animator, develop some relationships with people who are in the industry and share your skills and resources. And like Chris mentioned, Study Study… Study. There is a verse that says, "Study to show thyself approved." It is addressing scripture but it is relevant to all of your career. 'o,o' To stay on top – You have to know your stuff. Hope all goes well. Ray
#105499From: Mike StapletonJun 2, 1994 10:03 PM
Thanks for the advice Ray. I'll remember that scripture you mentioned. <><
#105504From: Ed RochelleJun 2, 1994 10:35 PM
Hi Mike, PMJI, I have a copy of 3D Studio r3 for sale and if you contact me via E-mail, I'd be glad to talk to you about it. Ed…
#106397From: chris murrayJun 7, 1994 8:59 PM
If you can find a company willing to pay you to do this go for it! Freelancing is very tough, especially when your trade is only one product. If you can get some authoring, and image processing under your belt and it will make you more marketable. Unless your a dealer or a programmer, I know of no other way to get a copy. Maybe put a meesage up here that you are looking to buy and are accepting offers. Don't post any prices here, do it privately via e-mail or over the phone. Where are you located?
#106422From: Mike StapletonJun 7, 1994 11:43 PM
Thanks for the help Chris. I'm in Austin, TX where I've heard of a few places that are using 3DS right now. One of them is Origin, but I think there starting to use Silicon graphics now. Right now though I'm looking to buy a used copy of 3DS so I can get started.