INFINITE JOBS FOR ARTISTS in the game industry
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 20 ต.ค. 2024
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INFINITE JOBS FOR ARTISTS in the game industry
In this video I discuss how you can have infinite work in the video game industry and why 99% of artists will not get hired, or keep a job in games even if they get past the interview process. This video may upset some people with a different view. If thats you, feel free to complain about it in the comments, but remember this video when you are bitterly screaming at working artists who are making their fortune doing what you wish you could be doing. You are always welcome in my dojo.
Games I've worked on -
Fortnite (Environment concept art)
Overwatch (Environment concept art + Sprays artwork)
League of Legends (Character design + Environment concept art, UI + Icons)
Diablo 3 (Character design + Environment concept art)
Hearthstone (Illustration)
Burning Crusade(Character design + Environment concept art)
Wrath of the Lich King (Character design + Environment concept art)
Indivisible (Environment concept art)
Final Fight Streetwise (Voice Acting + Character Design + World Design + Cutscene Direction + Co writer on script)
He Man GBA (Pixel Art)
Terminator 3 GBA (Art Direction + Pixel Art)
CannonBallers (Character + World design)
Ikeda: The Scrap Hunter (Programming + Art + Design)
Goblins and Gnomes (Concept Art)
Books available-
CreeD Re:Imaginary (2021) - 2 part Comic series
Twilight Monk - Return of the Ancients (2021) - Illustrated Novel
Twilight Monk Secrets of Kung Fulio (2020) - Illustrated Novel
Escape from Giants Crown (2019) - Illustrated Novella
World Of Twilight Monk Vol 1 (2019) Art Book
The Man and the Moonken (2019) - Illustrated Novella
The Beast of Tuksa (2018) - Illustrated Novella
Twilight Monk (2012) - 2 Graphic Novels
Nova Colony (2009) - 1 Graphic Novel
CreeD (1993-2007) - Comic Book Series
Ghost Rider (2000) - Comic Book Series
The Fuzz (1997) - Comic Book
I would really like to see a video about production process of concept art. In general how much time your boss gives you, how they make an order, ect.
I would love to see a video like this!
Yes I’m down too
Things are changing quite a bit. Please keep in mind that AI is becoming a new way of production. Everyone has a different approach.
@@whatif5465 not an ethical one tbh
Your boss is usually a programmer type person that thinks art takes two seconds to do. That's why concept art must be done fast. Your hope is there is a good art director to cushion the communication and give reasonable time to invent the wheel.
Back in the 90s, I dropped off a portfolio to Disney Animation Studios, feeling nervous but confident. The letter that I received was very humbling. I had included fan art of Darkstalkers, Megara from Hercules, and many other pieces that I thought were really good. If I had done any research (which is definitely easier these days), I would have known that they actually wanted more original works in a Disney style, showing form, design, and animation fundamentals. Lesson learned, I took one of those costly Game Art & Design courses in the mid 2000s, and learned a great deal about all of the things you mention here. My latest problem is, I make more at my current job than I would make locally doing game art. So, I don't think I'll go that route, but am considering supplementing my current job with side projects, like commissions or other freelance work.
What is your current job ?
do you have a portfolio that you are willing to share?
In the 90s Disney wanted life drawings. My class was invited to see portfolios submitted to Disney Orlando. Around the time of Mulan. What I got out of it is not to put in a weaker drawing hoping to complete a body of work. Portfolios seem to blend together after flipping through dozens and the people who hire look for a bad drawing to lower the amount for the next round of reviews. They only had 20 spots but were going to hire a few more because submissions were so good.
What is your current job?
TRENT.....you taught me more than my school. Thank you for opening many closed eyes.
Much Love from germany
My main takeaway from this is mainly that you should tailor your portfolio the same way you would tailor a resume for a specific job.
it is the thing that gives them some level of confidence you can actually do the work they need done after all.
Sooo true. I am working in a game industry and latest project going for a 3+ years, most of the time it is just grinding ideas, designs, giving feedback to 3D modelers, I barely get illustration type of tasks and even those most of the time are 3D, so I just need to overpaint for a much faster workflow. Also most of the time a barely touch drawing tablet. People think that working as an artist in a game industry is just doodling and drawing all day what you think is awesome dragons, creatures, but it is not. It requires discipline, good communicating skills, good understanding what project requires, great design and idea skills. It is too far from what artstation offers and misleads a lot of young artists.
''You don't NEED to get a job as an artist''' is really an underrated sentiment. I think most of us when we get to a certain level of expertise feel like we have to make art our profession. No matter the cost! You have to be a 'pro' to feel good about yourself after all. But some of us are just not cut out for the harsh realities of constant critique and feedback, and most of our brain babies not making it onto our client's projects, not being credited, our work iterated on again and again... I'm just realising now, after struggling in the animation/music industry world for 3 years that making illustrations for clients gives me zero satisfaction, and I feel better just sticking to graphic design as a job. The hours are better, the pay is better, the clients are less demanding and I actually have free time to make my own comics and stuff. Maybe eventually I'll have a big enough following and I can start to live off my own IPs, but if that doesn't happen, I'm okay with that. Thanks, Trent - the video you did a few years back on this topic really helped out a lot. :)
Currently posting 4 days a week on social media while I work on my skill as a concept artist. You totally changed my mind on posting on social media. I’m going to post my fun stuff on there but keep my self focused on the main thing. Thanks trent ❤
This video hits differently in february 2024, it just keep popping into my feed.
this is so inspiring, I've heard opinion that it's impossible to get into gamedev in 2023, because of many cool artist from foreign countries tht study in cool art schools and etc, so for a self taught artist that's still learning your videos are a breath of fresh air not to give up
Where did you hear that nonsense?
Not sure where you're from but there's very few good schools around the world that teach entertainment art of any kind. The large majority are self taught, even the school attendees.
@Balloonbot I'm from Ukraine, and tht was something my discord friends tht do commissions as artists told me, but yeah I figured that the most important is self discipline and being self critical is like very good skill to have cause we always learn ig... yuh haha), already forgot I left this comment
@@ainesk0.074 Absolutely, there's many great artists from Ukraine, outsourcing is big there for a reason - so dont let that hold you back.
Mate I studied on one of those fancy schools you say and I'm still jobless, the industry is hardcore, no motivational video is going to change that
The biggest struggle for me is finding which concentration of art I should focus on improving at. My college didn’t teach many fundamental art skills for fine arts and focused more on the cs side of things for game design. I enjoy the idea of being a concept artist but have been putting in more time doing 3d for my capstone game. I’m graduating this spring and don’t feel confident enough at a singular job to make it professionally. Part of my decision making is simply looking at what internships are available this summer and just grinding towards making work that will fulfill that job requirement. I’m not sure if this will be a successful strategy for success though. Thank you Trent for the honesty about what is expected in the industry.
I just wanted to thank you for the fantastic delivery of information in all of your videos. I greatly appreciate the straight forward facts. I am just entering the education stage for concept art starting in environment design at 29, and I can see the allure of the term "concept art" umbrella and the misconceptions of what is part of that umbrella. All of your videos are extremely educational. It's so reassuring to see just how many options are available for creatives. It's really motivating, especially when falling into the first-time learning slump, and not feeling quite good enough. Thank you again 😌
Honestly seriously needed this! I'm getting into 3d modeling and this was the best advice I've gotten so far. Thank you! This has been so inspiring!
Trying to shift how I present myself. Ready to listen!
This video has really helped me to break the schemes that years ago I saw as unbreakable, I have dedicated myself mainly to illustration without having that feeling of fulfillment of knowing if I'm on the right track. I mean, I can enjoy it, but somehow I feel that I can't "fill my hands". Plus, I've also just realized that I've put together my portfolio VERY poorly, hahaha. This video has given me some light to see what I should focus on, I really appreciate the knowledge and experience you share, Trent!
It's because of the influences of social medias, popular artists are doing like fanart, illustrations and cool dude with a stick looking at landscape, while the concept people are hidden in the shadows
really needed this information for soo long and happy to get it from here ,thank you
Always telling me exactly what I need to hear. Thanks, man!
as someone who is learning artas a hobby I am a disinterested bystander. Trent you may have popped a lot of bubbles but that honesty is a good thing. those who are honest with their skill set will benefit from this. those who are not, who view their art through rose colored glasses, who get praise from friends and family "oh honey thats the prettiest thingie I've ever seen" will have an inflated view of their art will be frustrated from lack of interviews. "my stick figures look as good as any Trent has done, why don't I get hired? those people just don't know good art when they see it"
It's good to have objrctive awareness of the interest of your art.
Thanks for the tip. Will adjust my portforlio.
Thank you for the awesome pep talk! :)
You assured me that I'm going the right way pushing harder and working on skills and learning things (how they are constructed and how they move/can be moved) instead of caring about social media or instead of applying for jobs because it feels too early for my skills level.
I bookmarked the video and I'll return to it every time I'll feel I'm not being productive :)
I've been chasing followers and subs on social media for far too long. Time to get my head down and just work on improving my art.
Thanks Trent ❤️
Good job on clarifying the difference between illustration and concept art. That's a confusing detail for many flat artists. In addition, sometimes i hear employers may want people who aren't top shelf illustrators because they dont have to pay them as much for an above average illustration.
In addition, you can see each visual art job can be a drastically different audience and focus. And one problem are these jack of all trades art degrees saying you learning multi positions will help you get a job and it most likely wont.
i can confirm your last sentence, on the 25 people in my class nobody found anything yet. All the professional that i looked at said: specialize in something you like, being a jack of all trades is worth nothing if you are not great at at least 1 thing.
School need to give themselves a reason to exist now that you can get train on the internet, and how are they doing this? bullshiting there students so they are not confident when facing professionals, that way the student simply think: i guess i don't know enough i will keep studying at school until i got it.
I can be wrong but this is how i feel now after my formation.
I am still pistoff at them and at my self for believing them.
@starjunvv4349 there's a massive problem with art schools and higher education going on in America. It's a HUGE scandal. That is not an illusion. I dont feel comfortable giving you advice personally since i never made it after school. But if i was to do anything different, it would be to have picked a couple of companies in mind and try to match their product and then also try to develop their universe with concepting. Try and match the subject and spirit of their content. For example, if you did a serious tattoo portfolio vs. A disney aimed portfolio, those flat art pieces are going to be night and day in difference. Same would go for Dungeons and Dragons content vs. Disney. Or a new Fallout video game vs. Disney, night and day difference right there.
@@te9591 At the moment i do online class, i still don't know/practice enough of the fundamentals so i focus on that. I will try that, matching companies is going to take a while but the goal is interesting enough to get me drawing.
Hope things goes well on your side 2 :)
have a nice day
Hi Trent I love your videos! Your advice applies almost every creative industry. I've been working as a graphic designer for 4 years, and you're correct when you say they don't want to have to train you that much. All of my bosses loved that I could just jump in and start working, and that I add value on top. Clients and bosses take a gamble when they hire someone and it's your job to make them feel like that made the right decision. When I interview I always ask what woulda successful candidate after 90 days look like and what would they be doing day to day after you hire them. This question gets right to the point of why they need someone on board, and it usually comes down to either they need someone with a specific skill or someone who understands the workflow. They want the person to take a weight off their shoulders and if the work in your portfolio reflects that and you're cool in the interview you usually have a good shot getting the job.
it's been a while Trent. Guess your game development cycle is getting tighter and tighter- hang in there :)
thank you for taking the time to make a video for us again. And of course, thanks for the great advice.
Your videos and art courses are absolutely fantastic. You do such a great job preparing artists to work in the real world.
I want to thank you from all my heart not only for this video, but for all of them. Actually I'm working in indie games as freelancer about 4 years already (mostly location design, maps, UI, and 2d assets) but before I started this, I was thinking that only GODLIKE ARTISTS have chance to get place in game industry, and you defenetely are one of this kind, but you also explained to me and many others, that there is so many different jobs in game industry, that people simply do not even think about, and this jobs does not require any specific soft knowledge, just adobe photoshop can be enough, to be overloaded by job, if you are responsible and act like professional, interacting with customers. Your help in way of understanding this was priceless for me, and many other subscribers you have.
agree, I used to get so discourage, especially seeing amazing work, I only fell in love with concept art after I realized what it was actually and that not every sketch had to be perfect and that different games needed different types of style, it just came down to whenever your style was the right fit and understanding too
Trent's courses and workshops were a pillar in both me and my partner into opening our own indie art studio to work both in video and tabletop games. I can't give it a higher recommendation for anyone who wants to take their craft seriously.
Damn Mr.Trent you've given alot of useful knowledge & wisdom I wish there was was a channel like this cuirated for aspiring coming book & cover artists, regardless of such you've opened my options to so many more art careers so its great to know that it is a plausible field to be able to excel in thank you
very inspiring! I am a graphic designer and at the age of 35, I want to change my direction from graphic design to game art. Honestly, after seeing what you have done, I am not sure if I can make it happen. It seems like there is way too much to prepare for a portfolio before I can even begin to looking for a job.
Thank you for the laser sharp direction Trent. I needed to see this now🙏
Another fantastic video! My portfolio got a bit bogged down with finished environment paintings so I'm going back and trying to fill it out with more callouts, cutaways, and props and man that stuff is just so much more fun for me than illustration.
I'm saving this video so I can repeatedly come back to it.
Thank you for the raw and honest truth.
Just picked up some workshops after finishing the Easy art lessons. I mostly do 3D models but having the mindset of a concept artist when doing Props/Characters/Eviroments is really important. Thank you so much for your videos :)
i'm in school for animation but I appreciate your thought process of how you hire artist and how an artist that wants to thrive in the video game industry will have to think about their work.
@@YakOfArt yes, location/culture is half the battle.
well I have connections down and the school I go to has a spread sheets of internship offers for students and are partners with Epic Games, so I feel like i'm in a good place to get a job when I graduate, hell I'll have a internship before I graduate. But I understand peoples frustration if they don't have those kind of opportunities, I just feel blessed, but all that can be taken if I don't take advantage of it though and work hard.
I will like to take the time to thank you again for making this channel and for the workshops, because since I started my journey and following your advice, I started to work as a developer and I was hired in artstation for a concept character I did for a OC of my own and from there I learn and gain so much experience in development that I haven't run out of clients in the indie world, mostly thanks to your discord too, I got 2 of my clients there, still learning but I am able to say that I have experience making things now, so again, thank you so much and appreciate every video and workshop you put out, it helps me a lot!!
The tricky thing in video game roles is that you actually have to work much harder, it's much more competitive, and there's also a lot of circlejerking around aesthetics (everyone loves mechs, fantasy temples and shiny blue lights) that makes it particularly vulnerable to be replaced by AI. I hope video games pivot more towards unique visions like what Kojima has tried to do and a few others. Until then animation is the superior industry although it is more precarious (currently out of a job for a month despite working at the top of this field for 7 years).
Ouch. Sorry to hear that. Hope you can bounce back soon. I recently read that even most anime lose money. Animation isn’t the most profitable business.
Trent, thanks for making these videos. I’m excited to keep watching.
Could you please do more of workouts for artist videos they helped me a lot. I really need them right now!
Your videos always inspire me sir. Honest, direct, and detailed. Always looking forward to the next.
“If you dont want to go independent, dont waste your time on social media.” Thank you! People keep saying you should as an artist post on instagram but I was never personally interested in that. Im happy its not necessary
The thing that scares me the most is the damn competition! Plus I have been taking art seriously for barley 7 months so I still suck at drawing hands and Anatomy and I am 16 so I have plenty of years until I end high school in Sweden. We end school at the age of 19 in most cases.
you can do it!, I only started getting clients and jobs after 2 years of posting, collabing and just making stuff, but honestly just keep posting and applying and you'll never know!
@@LolixBelle Thanks for the boost of motivation! All those kind motivating comments make me happy 😊 I appreciate it, good luck on your own journey to Izzie!
If you let fear of competition get to you, you'll have a really rough time of it. Yes, there are a LOT of really great artists out there, but the thing to keep in mind is, at a certain level ALL of the artists are really really good, so at THAT point it somewhat ceases to be a factor. What becomes the REAL factor is who is pleasant to work with? Who makes the art director's job easier? Who is consistent and dependable? 1000% work on improving your art skills, but remember that your REAL competition will one day be based on factors that go beyond art skill and a lot of amazing artists drop the ball in those other areas.
@@makingmonsterart ok thx
Man it's been 5 months almost. :) thank you so much for your comment. I was very bored back then so I didint take your information as seriously. I totally understand what u mean. About being flexible, having better communication skill. Being adaptable and so on. :] i have improved a lot since then and I celebrated 1 year of art in June. I hope you see this and are good. ❤️❤️man thank you I am tearing up
Thanks for all the good advice - over the years I feel that I learned a lot from you, thank you!
Recently I had to go through a lot of portfolios myself (graphic design in board games) and the amount of the artworks that just didn't fit the job description was astounding...
I appreciate the clarification on what art serves what purpose. Took me forever to understand that there is a difference in each when I was starting out.
Wouldve loved to have had this back in 2015.
As a kid I didn't know how any of this works, so I went on to getting a degree in ad design and then onto university for gameart which was cool but really an expensive mistake just to notice I'm not built for this requirement.
Essentially wasted 7 years going towards a dead end.
Now trying out a different career though.
I wish they'd show this video in middleschools to actually teach kids what the workforce is like in special industries so nobody wastes their time like I did.
Hello..May I know what you doing now??..I am in same situation..
You know it’s funny, I spent today pondering the thought of how I plan to impress potential employers of game studios for when I graduate, and I created a intricate list of things I I think I should do to stand out of the crowd, and my intention before I came across this video was to Watch some TH-cam on Something related to 3d Enviroment art and your video pops up and completely opens my eyes, helping me get one step closer to where I want to be, I’d like to thank you with a like and subscribe 🙏🏿💯
I think this great advice applies to everyone in the art industry, you are right looking at my own portfolio I think I can improve a lot more if I use this advice, thank you
Thank you so much for the video! I was able to get so much from your video. I was wondering when you said to do more studies are you referring to more tutorials and lessons to reach that level of proficiency? and also would the courses that you have on your gumroad be a good place to do those studies?
thanks bro this was really informative
Thank you for being blunt.
I have a couple of questions. I recently cut a lot of projects from my ArtStation portfolio, leaving almost exclusively environment work, which teachers, peers, and working artists have told me is my strongest. I feel it looks more consistent, but I worry that it might reduce my chances of landing my first job as a concept artist. Should I create another portfolio and include only the process for the character projects and practice more of the rendering (which is my weakest), or keep on pushing with the environments and put all my money on that bet? to be honest, both characters and environments is something I deeply enjoy.
On the other hand, I wonder If the rendered image is the best thumbnail I could use. I include most of the process leading to the final render, but that is inside the page. Should I shuffle the thumbnails with rendered images for some projects and some parts of the process for others, like, for example, linework?
Finally, thank you for your content. It is inspiring and relaxing and a great company to keep grinding happily.
Thank you so much Trent! Your videos are always very helpful
Thank you for your videos Mr. Kaniuga. Laconic, up to the point, true. Love it 🙏
FINALLY! A HELPFUL VIDEO😭😭 THANK YOU SO MUCH HOLY CRAP edit: I tried to subscribe, but i was already subbed.....awkward
I was thinking about becoming a developer, but when i started it wasn't suited for me. So i try for game art, 3d art spesifically and i love it! Now after almost 2 year, when i look for game industry has become for artist. It's dead. Not just from my personal experiences, but when i look around and see the other artist has become. It's just literally inflation of artist all around and there is not enough junior positions to develop and growth themselves. I loved video games, now im just starting to hating it. I don't know even though i go back as developing myself as a software developer, i will never look back again to gaming industry.
Keep polishing your portfolio is just a word, since even lots of experienced artist can't find a job, how am i suppouse to be motivated and keep moving forward?
There’s a shortage of artists that make concept art that is useful for game dev. It’s flooded with people who have no idea how art is used to build 3D models or consideration for game design or storytelling. I see worse and worse character design every year.
Really liked the video but I was a bit distracted by the slight stutter look and motion blur, I would recommend setting the camera shutter to double your fps you record at and then lower the aperture to compensate for the light and get a bit better separation from the background. Other than that nitpick it was a great video and I hope you have a lovely day.
Amazing stuff, I would LOVE to see a "draw along" of some sort where You would show how You go about your creative process real-time. I know it's something avaliable in your courses, but as I'm yet to buy one, I thought a 15 min video or even less, where we could see the most rough sketches, or the mid to last stages of the creative thinking could be awesome, it's really relaxing and inspiring for me to listen to You while I work, so that idea gets me excited 😄! But of course, this is Your way of making money at the end of the day, so it's understandable if this process is something You rather keep in the courses, as You have given many tips on how it works here on youtube, just without demonstration. I appretiate all the things You do for artists, I'm one of those scardy painters who always worries, and I have to say, the way You talk about the long hours for concept artists really does worry me a bit, but at the end of the day You help me see a light in the tunnel, though I would LOVE to see a little elaboration from You, on how to get a concept art job that maybe has more of the 9 to 5 work time, or one where artists get decent payment for their work? I've heard that can be an issue too unfortunately. Again though, great stuff You're doing, much love, thank You so much for putting this information out there, there is far too little of people who share the inside stories and information about the industry!
Thanks Trent for the reminder :D It's always a pleasure to hear your wise and essential advice again.
Thank you for the awsome video full of very important information
thats awesome I wish i will be able to buy some of your courses someday
oh my God i needed this video 5 years go when i started as a freelance artist. Super usefull information thank you!
Thanks for the advice and words here! I'm a 3d artist who has been looking to up my concept art work. Hoping to dive into some of your tutorials soon. Love your stuff!
Would like to hear advice on how to apply with most jobs listed say "senior exp required". How do you get more seniors if Internships require being in school and Junior/mid level jobs seems to be nonexistent now a days?
That was intense & super good advice, thanks
The problem I see is company's just choosing NOT to pay them for months.
That seems to be the situation with the BIG companies, like Blizzard or Marvel/DC in comics, they know there's an abundance of artists who want to work for them so they treat them like expendable assets.
@@cassiuskurei Yep. Or just want AI to do it. You'd think with younger generations liking manga. You'd think they'd hire artists and writers who like Manga. It beats recreating the same characters over again.
@@cassiuskureiit’s ass working at those companies. I don’t think ive ever heard of 1 game developer/ artist saying “yep, I’ve worked here for 5 years/10/20 years” they mainly just give you a seasonal full time position with a lot of overtime and the nice it ends you’re out. 😊
Amazing like always!!!
Making art as a hobby vs having it as a job requires a different process, a different approach and overall feels different. If you want to earn money you have to know who you're selling to and what they need, otherwise you're just in denial.
Love the ponytail, Sensei.
Bro, thanks for this advice you show me the rigth path, I was on another train.
So much insight to fix the view❤
Awesome video!!!
It crazy how I've been wanting to get into to concept art for years but it's only been recently that I've understood that I've been doing that shit WRONG!
Thank you for making these kind of videos.
God damn i hate my school even more now. Just finished my 1 year class in a private college for 2d/3d artist before Christmas.
Even with 90% average i never felt a single time confident when i was looking at artstation. My teachers ALL said ''don't worry we gave you a base line and your future job will train you for the next step'' what a load of bullshit.
At the moment nobody in my class found a job and on the 25 people in it, i would say that 2 of them had a portfolio that was worth something(not mine), but even them haven't fund anything yet.
When i was learning stuff online, on my own, all the professional that i looked at had a takes similar to yours, and yet our school just kept going with their toxic positivity.
I scraped my school portfolio since i don't have anything interesting in it anyway. I am back on the grind but this time i will trust my instinct.
The reason why people think that their future job will train them is because that is what school teach them, i am disgusted by that. Every time i looked at artstation and then looked at our class i knew something was off, and felt trap between school and self learning since time is a limited resource.
I am still pistoff at them and at my self for believing them.
Thank you for your teaching people about this.
Not to disagree on the point of having "experience" for the job or at least a mindset, but the issue with that in my opinion is that you actually need to land a job to learn about it. So in order for someone to get necessary experience, one needs to actually gain it by becoming part of the industry.
It's like ouroboros, the snake eating its own tail. Anyway, a really high, information video as always. Like I always thought, the way employers think is the reason why I gave up trying to be in the industry. Maybe if I was born on the time where everything was still new land so to speak, then the chances of getting hired is much better compared today, which apprenticeship or even not having any experience will still land you a job if you have the raw talent or can be seen working hard to improve.
But alas, business is business and it's more apparent that it will be even be worse later. I'm gonna stick to my own personal game project at least if in the future I have children I can show it to them instead.
this video was eye opening for me! thank you
What he is saying here is basically you have to create a portfolio-version of a cover letter (BTW, AI is also doing cover letter's now as well. 😅) A cover-letter is basically a portfolio/resume that you make specifically for the employer you are applying to. You talk up the skills that you have that are relevant to the position you are applying for, and then explain how and why this skills will benefit that employer.
While I agree that you have to understand what it is that an employer wants before even applying to the job, that could have been wrapped up in less than a minute. A 13 minute rant wasn't really necessary. It's kinda self-explanatory to anyone who is serious about being hired. It's kind of a Strawman argument quite frankly. Only the most novice of artists would try to get a job working for Nintendo with a bunch of still-life or portrait art in the portfolio.
There have been record lay-offs and firings in not only the gaming-industry, but the animation-industry. You have a literally TRILLION-DOLLAR company in Microsoft laying off workers in their most-important division. If you believe those jobs are coming back, I have some swamp land in Florida that might interest you.
There is no such thing as "infinite jobs" in a industry that is based on _want_ rather than _need._ People _want_ to play video-games. They _want_ to watch cartoons or anime. They don't _need_ to do those things.
In a climate where a lot of companies have adapted to the loss of the workforce due to the pandemic and realize that they really didn't need that many people to get the job done, then adding on the explosion of AI use, things are not the same anymore. You can't look at what has worked in the past and assume that it will always work. People have to learn how to adapt to what is *actually happening* rather than trying to reaffirm strategies that even when done right are not a guarantee for employment, but now in a shaky (collapsing) economy are tenuous at best.
Really appreciate your advice about the game industry. Could you tell us where to actually find production art of artists who are currently working for game studios? All I can think of are concept art books. Thanks!
Hey Trent, if I want be a concept artist at a game studio, should I learn painting traditionally, or digital is enough? I'm pretty confident in digital, but I rarely ever hold a real brush in my hand. I've been advised to take a painter course, as some professionals come out of that field, but I'm not sure if I really need that. (Also the course is expensive). I need to focus on fundamentals. I'm a little torn deciding about the situation. Maybe your tutorials could launch me a lot further, than a school for painters.
Anyways, thank you for spreading knowledge about the field, it really helps clear out the fog.
99.999% of concept art for video games is done digitally.
@@TrentKaniuga Thank you so much for the answer! Your channel really helps.
I'm thinking of taking my art seriously to pursue an art related job or freelance somehow. Normal work routine is too boring. Need more urgency and risk to feel like an actual reward for being productive.
This was very motivational, thank you so much
Great video! I really like what you doing, thanks a lot!
Thank you so much... I just liked and subscribed!
Trent...this video is definitely what i needed to hear about the type of portfolios that should be put together, but would you know if gaming companies still hire animators and what those requirements are?
Great video! Thanks
I know I need to draw/create more concept work but its very hard to get my brain out of university fully finished piece mode, even years later 😝 I'm trying to just sketch critters/random prompts more to get my brain back into creative mode, back into the way it was in high school
Thank you Master Trent, I really like your art and work, thanks for sharing, you are an inspiration for me as an artist.
Thanks man this was really useful!!
If you're an aspiring concept artist, at least start small: a treasure chest, a tree, a column, a weapon from four POV's. Maybe ten different UIs. If the art looks wonky, shelve your other designs/art. Ya not ready.
THANK YOU FOR OPENING MY EYES.
I'm sorry. But in my last job. My art director blatantly told me it's all about the money. NOT. The designs! I could have given them designs that could go toe to toe with Eve Online. But no. I had to follow their money making mediocre vision, for 7 yrs. Made worse by having a micromanaging CEO who thinks he's the "steve jobs" of the gaming industry.
And yeah. There are infinite jobs for artist in the gaming industry right now. That's because there are now multiple categories and sub categories, and sub variants of the sub categories of artist in the industry. Also nowadays, companies wants 2D artist that also knows 3D, computer programming, a college diploma and a masters degree in "High Art". And most importantly, a decade long experience for the newbies.
This was a great video! I have a question though about portfolio content. My portfolio in regards to the game industry is NIL. I have illustrations from books I've worked on, self directed projects and the likes but I'm a I'm a former fine art art teacher! (which should tell you enough about what's in there!). How would you navigate this? Would you self-direct small scale projects in its simplest form (one or two characters, aspects of environments/obejects/companions special skills etc?) to convey your creativity, or would you focus on doing standalone pieces that reflect more on your technical skills?
I recently gave birth to my 3rd child and because of the way of the world, I just absolutely do not want to return to teaching and finally get a career that I can let my own art progress and grow in a way I could never do whilst teaching. Your videos have massively opened my eyes, it's so daunting but also so EXCITING how much I have to learn and all the space ahead of me. I genuinely feel like a kid in art school again, and its' a great feeling. Your videos have been such an amazing resource, and I will definitely be sharing them with former students of mine. A huge tysm for this resource
I have a question for Trent, or anyone with knowledge on the subject. My question is if I wanted to get a art career in the gaming/entertainment industry, would I have to relocate to wherever the work is? I’ve been told that a lot of concept work is online through zoom meetings and work from home etc., but that’s mostly for things like comics and books. Also, what jobs can I get in this industry without having to relocate, if there’s any jobs at all. I have heard that being an independent contractor, you’re able to work remotely. Moving is a bit difficult for me at least for the moment, so I would appreciate any feedback, thank you!
Great Channel!! Subscribed 😎🤟
I am a 36 year old who has a MFA in studio art. I have a strong background in painting and sculpture, and I currently work at a sculpture studio, and do paintings in my off time. I have little experience in digital beyond some basic photoshop.
I want to get our of my wing of the art industry tho, and I want to get into video game art.
What advice would you give someone like me, who desperately wants to change my career path, but doesn't want to push it I'm in my late 40s?
I am really working on making my portfolio super specific and launched my first real site. I'm going into 2d animation but all of this information applies there too in that you have to pick which part of animation you're going into. Mine is layout. I wonder if there is a cross over and I can apply for video game jobs too. Thanks for all the insights.
Allot of job postings seem like ghost jobs, many don’t pay enough (livable wages), & there are so many artists (good to “pro”) that are competing for those jobs (which increases the sense of loneliness) more so than there are studios hiring. Mass Layoffs. Rejections, work on portfolio, rejections, work on portfolio, rejections- year after year, your depressed & de-motivated. After the burn-out. Your even slower at your artwork now, because your overthinking every detail, not liking your art, toxically not constructively “comparing” your work to those who’ve-made-it-in. Then there is work-life balance, benefits, stability, pension/retirement, simply not having the “connections” others have, fears in the industry. The rising threat of ai. I’m just tired, I’ve tried a little over 5 & 1/2 years to get into the industry, entry level, internship or apprenticeship at cartoonish studios (not photo real cg houses, & avoided the games-industry because of the bad reputation that industry has towards certain demographics of people). And I was never able to get anything in any of my fields of passion, stylized cg character art, storyboarding, & concept art.working hard, probably not smart lol. As marketing myself as all three probably didn’t help, but I was truly passionate about all three, & was always afraid to let my skills die in any of the three, just in case I could use the other professionally. I’m tired, almost a decade of burnout & sacrifice for “nothing”. I tried my best, coming from a bad school that taught us hard work ethic, but didn’t teach us the current methods & up-to-date work-flows. Self taught myself, more Zbrush skills, bonus tools in maya, substance painter & some other tools after graduating school. I am to old now, to qualify for many apprenticeship programs (graduated in 2017). Im giving up
I suggest that you look at the under served indie market. There are more jobs now than ever. Just not at the biggest studios.
Trent, i am trying to get a job as a junior artist in the game industry and i often see adds from companies i dont even recognise one bit, asking for bachelor's degree in art, 3-5 years of experience, etc, for a concept artist job. It's the working experience conundrum for people that have zero exp... Are those requirements met with a solid portfolio with zero job exp from my part, or are things getting more and more compicated and difficult for artists? Also, do you offer paid portfolio reviews? :P
nobody cares about your degree. if your portfolio meets the standards that a recruiter is looking for then you are a potential hire.
@@NINEx7x even if you don't have the required work experience?
@@nickphilipps3900 it depends on the role and your skill level. if the studio is trying to fill a senior role, you're not getting the job. If it's a mid position, you have a good chance at getting the job if your portfolio is up to snuff. I went from doing 3D art as a hobby to working in a mid-level position as an environment artist because I tailored my porfolio to a specific studio and made high quality assets, understood composition, mood, storytelling, etc. I know a lot of others that had no degree or no work experience, they just made good art. I also know a few people that paid for mentorships and then used that connection to further network and get referrals to art positions.
@@NINEx7x okay, i hear you.Thanks for the response!
It’s going to be one of those cases where you apply anyway. Yes there is a chance your application may never get past HR because you don’t have prior experience or it maybe a case where the employer does take the time to look at your portfolio even if you don’t have prior experience. It is one of those cases where you don’t know what will happen but you apply anyway.
Trent, I love your vids. I'm struggling as a freelancer to get hired (I do have a decade of work for Wizards and a decade of in-house full time, not a beginner, but it's still a void there), I was wondering how do you pitch your studio/work and how do you find clients (aside of Blizzard, where you get to connect with AD's over the course of years) I'm stuck at this point....Thanks!
LinkedIn might be a good place to post your work, and communicate that you’re a freelancer/contract artist
Can you show us some good portfolios of concepts artits so we can understand what is good and bad and what we should include in it ???
This is gold coming out of your mouth if one is smart enough to grab and absorb
Great video as always Trent! Thank you for your constant real applicable advice. I do have a question, you somewhat have answered it, but im a concept artist and illustrator 2 years out of school. I worked at an indie game studio for 2 years before the project was done, I did environment concept art as well as some marketing illustration art. I also have done several children's books. I am now applying for jobs, and have both illustration and concept art from my studio time in my portfolio. I have both because I am applying to multiple jobs, some are more illustration jobs and some are more concept art jobs. I might be answering my own question I know it is important as you said in the video to have your portfolio be focused, but what should I do when I have professional work experience in multiple areas, I want to show that professional work because I also am not completely sure where I want to go with my career but right now i just need work. Should I bite the bullet and take the time to create a purely concept art portfolio, while not applying for work. Should I have a separate illustration portfolio and a separate concept art portfolio. Right now I have my work separated into two categories. Thank you for the videos trent!
Make a specialized portfolio for each different job category. Don't just apply to one type as that lowers your overall chances. The company that chooses you will be what you're going to continue on in then. SO as you said seperazation each.
The environment art job will not care about your childrens books, it only takes up the recruiters time, which is appr. 30 seconds for each applicant.