Considering architecture as your dream job is quite a good choice in life but it also means a lot of work. Before you can start building your visualization career, you must first understand what it means to be a professional rendering artist.

First of all, modern architecture is all about architectural rendering, as using computer software to generate three-dimensional models is the best way to make ideas come to life.

Architectural rendering is present in almost every industry of today because investors can see what their objects and characters will look like in real life.

This is especially popular in the gaming industry. It's safe to say that considering architectural rendering as a career choice is going to bring a lot of excellent opportunities your way. So here are some of the most important things you should know before you go any further down the line.

What It Means to Be a 3D Modeler

To become good at what you do, you must first understand the main goal of your profession.

So, put simply, architectural rendering is all about rendering objects in digital space to bring all visual assets to life. If you have a client with an idea to build a new building, you can help them visualize their own ideas by using architectural rendering as your tool.

It's extremely important to stay up to date with all the latest technological advancements and architectural techniques, as this will help you stay ahead of the competition.

Then, you'll be required to work with other artists and professionals so that you can deliver a consistent artistic vision, which can be pretty pressure-inducing but quite liberating at the same time.

The best thing about architectural rendering is that it offers so many opportunities that you'll have lots of fun if you get a hang of it. Just keep mind that today, architecture is all about constant evolution.

New technology is constantly changing this industry, so staying updated is the only way to remain competitive. One more important aspect of your new career is that you'll have a lot of responsibility too, as a lot of things will depend on your skills and abilities.

Architectural Design Depends on 3D Modeling

Modern architectural design literally depends on 3D modeling, as architects have long abandoned outliners, pencil sketches, and paper.

Thanks to the computing power of the latest gadgets, you can turn any plan or idea into reality, in a digitally rendered environment and show how that idea interacts with the environment.

Architectural rendering allows an artist to account for dimension and space, which allows clients and investors to see how their objects interact with the surrounding environment in real time. This makes most of the building plans much more accessible and easier to realize.

It also makes it a lot easier on the investors involved in the process of decision-making, as just viewing plans and blueprints isn't enough to fully comprehend what their idea will look like in the final stage. Viewing a 3D model instead, makes it easier to understand, and to make any additional changes if there's a need to do so.

Your Success Depends on Your Skills

Your location and experience matter a lot, especially when you're a newbie. The company you worked for, the projects you've completed so far, everything matters. In the end, it's your portfolio that will get you hired.

It's recommended that you have a degree in fields like programming or creative design, as this will get you a good insight into what the artistic field of architectural rendering looks like today.

Putting together a perfect portfolio will help you get to your wanted destination, but to do that, you need to have extensive knowledge and be creative. Additionally, being involved with the art community might give you a good perspective on how to become a professional 3D modeler. Any experience in digital and non-digital 3D art is also more than welcome.

Recognize Your Own Talents

Most newbies make the same mistake by being afraid to experiment with multiple niches. Never pigeonhole yourself, as you can never explore your full potential if you limit your specialization to just one niche.

Instead, start small by working on a couple of smaller projects. This will help you display an extensive range of skills, as well as your readiness to work outside your comfort zone. This will encourage your employers to hire you over others.

The competitive market and environment of architectural rendering is a pretty crowded one but don't let that discourage you.

In fact, take this as proper motivation to come up with the most innovative work by constantly improving yourself and only the sky will be your limit. With that in mind, here are a couple of good tips on how to recognize your talents:

● Always be open to any advice or constructive criticism, as this can greatly help you improve your skills.

● Be ready to work with other artists and take any chance you have to learn from the experience.

● Be inspired and creative, follow the example of people you work with and work on your productivity.

● Work hard but work smart as well and learn about proper organization and time management.

Effective Communication

Modern architecture is all about effective communication. Since you'll be working with riggers, directors, concept artists, investors, and clients in general, it's paramount to keep the unique artistic vision of every project in mind.

Since a lot depends on the way you communicate with other members while working on a project, make sure that you include their visions and ideas in your storytelling. To do that, it's not enough to know all about 3D, you have to think in 3D.

The most effective way is by using various references. These references are videos and images that will show your partners and project members the progress you've made. It's also crucial that you learn all about the concept of form, volume, and weight, as this will help you create the most realistic models.

Do's and Don'ts for Newbies

You'll have to go a long way before you become a well-respected, prolific 3D visualization artist but since it's doable, you just need to be persistent at it. Anything is possible if you set some basic rules and follow the routine when managing your workflow and process of education.

Create and cultivate the most distractionless and efficient working environment if you plan to succeed. Here's what you should and shouldn’t do to get there.

Understand that you need to work constantly

If you want to become an expert you have to keep improving your skills week by week. Producing emotionally moving and profound digital art is quite a challenge, but it's possible if you keep pushing yourself. It's also important that you expose yourself to as many new techniques and ideas as possible.

Never get discouraged

Yes, there are people who are infinitely better than you but that doesn't mean that you shouldn’t give it a try. Take those people as an example and let it motivate you to become as good as them.

Don't be afraid of traveling

Being a rendering artist allows you to work from anywhere with an internet connection and a habitable atmosphere. Broaden your views by visiting other places. Experience a diverse and rich variety of perspectives, as this will help you become better at what you do. Make sure that you constantly explore different techniques, methods, and styles.

Don't apply the same style for all your architectural rendering

This won't get you any closer to developing your personal brand. The more artistically dexterous you are, the broader the scope of your work will be.

The only way to do so is by constantly educating yourself

The only way to become the best of the best is by working with different visualization and rendering techniques. Cultivate your passions and continually educate yourself.

We already mentioned that rendering technology advances pretty quickly so the only way to stay on top of your competition is by constantly exploring what's new in the industry. That's how you'll get a chance to learn new programs, skills, and techniques.

Stay creative and keep challenging yourself with new ideas

When it comes to architectural rendering, it's all about your creativity and how far you're willing to go to bring in innovation. Thinking outside the box is the only way to become innovative.

Finally, make sure that you keep track of your work at all times

A professionally built portfolio would be the best option but if you don't have one yet, a simple file folder will do just fine. You'll need a good way to showcase your knowledge, expertise, and skills when it matters the most, so it's always better to come prepared.