I've been working as a web designer for over 6 years. I've worked with some 3D programs before, but never really had a chance to pursue it full time. Recently I had to work on a small project involving 3D and really liked it. It was a nice change of pace. I might like doing it as a full time job. I know I have a bit go before I get REALLY good at it, but I've worked with photoshop and illustrator for most of my career. And I like to freehand draw. Could I make a go of it? Or would I be turned down as being too old? How bad is the age bias in the industry?

You aren't too old. But you're talking about an industry that is flooded with lots of new talent every year. It's the latest "dream job" that every tom, dick, and harry are pursuing. The market is currently over saturated. And people are still pouring in by the thousands. You have to be exceptionally good at it to stand out in the crowd. And artists are commonly the first to be tossed out when things are slow.

Age has nothing to do with it. What a person's portfoliio looks like, what their skills and capabilities are, that's what matters. Talent can be had at any age.

Thanks! Is there a way to make it as a freelance 3D artist? I don't have to make a ton of money if I do it on the side. Do companies hire on a contract basis?

Yes. In fact. Most companies prefer contract workers because they don't have to keep them on full time and pay them benefits. If you don't mind not knowing where your next job is coming from. That's a good direction to go. From all of the horror stories and unemployment stretches I read from even seasoned industry workers. I think the 3D industry is more attractive to older retired artists who are looking to do odd jobs to combat boredome. I can't imagine trying to support a family doing 3D work in this economy.

F**k Me, If you're too old I'm really screwed! [lol]

(Wink) I'll be 43 this year. I sent you an E-Mail TRS80. :) Clint

I'm 55. We just had a design meeting on the sequel to one of our games. I was 36 before I even touched a computer (a half hour at a friend's house), but got that first job at Sierra Online because I had a strong 2D portfolio and good imagination for fantasy. They loaned me a computer and their proprietary software and said "come back in two weeks". Being able to teach yourself is a plus if you want to freelance. Even employees usually don't get training on the job. Many companies in the games industry are only hiring for the team or the project and there is no job security. Ad agencies and such are probably more permanent. Duelling mouthwashes and dancing raisins aren't as glamourous as imaginary worlds, but consumers must keep buying or the economy will implode and ads aren't going away any time soon. Carolly

I hope the hell 36 isn't too old. I'm 43 and just beginning to look seriously at the possibility of a 3d career.

Yep.

Frankly, you'd better carefully read the EULA of any 3D software that you might happen to purchase. I'm not entirely certain that the license agreements allow someone as youthful as you are to use the software.

Anyone ever have to deal with age discrimination in a 3D job, or anything tech related.

at 36? do you even need to ask? man, thats way over the hill. you should be out shopping for a walker and getting fitted for depends. just ask orion1167.... hes 3 years older than you and already so far gone he couldnt lift a cracker if it had dip on it. the near future looks pretty grim for you, my friend :( best just lie down and succumb to the big sleep.

No offense, TRS80 -- I was just joking with you.

;)

err, yeah - me too in case anyone missed the heavy sarcasm :) the freelance 3D industry is completely tied to skill and style - noone cares what country you live in, how old you are, what gender you are, etc. thats not to say that you aarent going to have stiff competition from the newer generations of youngsters who have been weaned on computers and 3D, and take to most apps much faster and more intuitively.... but thats the same with everything, as technology progresses. cheers, -gabriel

I think age DOES have an impact, perhaps more than being fat, unattractive, bald, knobby kneed or flatulent. What you do with that impact makes all the difference though. I attended the small mac business dinner at MacWorld and was amazed at all the young guys there who are deeply into the rss/blog/social networking thing -- build a site and sell it off for a profit to a big company market. My partner and I area both of comparable range of age as you all. The kids were smart and very aware of their marketspace, but I could tell their initial assumption of us sitting there was "jeez, who let in the geezers" -- until my partner opened up his mouth and started talking about cross-over of sales channels, online/retail/multi-national -- then ears perked up, because most of these younger folks are ONLY internet aware and were grooving on something that was brand new to them. Make sure you make your cumulative experience work for you rather than your physical age become a detriment. For example, if you are an experienced designer you know things about how color works and, if you have real print experience, that also is leveragable into a world filled of young people who think publishing is printing to pdf for a website. Here's my Dennis Hopper question for you: What Are You - Medicated Geezer or Gandalf? I think this market respects wizards of any age. Best regards, chikako Meshbox Design http://www.meshbox.com

I've done a lot of H.R. and hiring in my various jobs. I was even a recruiter for Manpower for a short stint. I can only speak for myself. But it's not so much the age of a person that prevents me from hiring them. As much as how the person carries himself. I've hired some older workers. But I've also turned away a lot too. Not based on numerical age. But because the person was slow moving and reacting. And clearly unable to meet the demands of the position needing to be filled. It's not so bad to be old. But it's going to really hurt your employment chances at any company if you act old. Always keep yourself in shape and be as quick witted as you can. That's just as important as having a good resume. -ScottA

Anyone else know someone who got a late start on their career?