In this simulated work experience, I was partnered with Muneera Begum where she was working on a 3D animation project. In our first meeting, I explained that I do not have much experience in 3D modeling or animation outside of the pathway, and my partner was incredibly understanding. She gave me a feasible role that I could complete during the work experience period. I was given the role to create 5 rough character turnarounds in 2D, as a guide to make 3D models for her project’s extras.
I was originally just supposed to make the 5 character turnarounds in 2D for her to work on 3D. However, since we still had time, I wanted to challenge myself and create at least one 3D model that she can use in her project. At this point, I had 3 character turnarounds with the front view colored and I chose one of them to work on in 3D. Contrary to my expectations, I did not need to model the extras from scratch but modeled them from an existing biped in Maya. Therefore, details such as the round-shaped, pink-colored nose in my initial sketches were omitted in the 3D model.
My partner was a pleasant person to work with, she was also very knowledgeable in what she was doing and guided me very thoroughly through this work experience. We were able to communicate well and she was the one who initially offered to sit with me through the process of modeling the character. Since this was my first time modeling a human in Maya, I did have a lot of questions for my partner and I took quite some time to be able to model one. However, my partner spent a whole day in the 3D studio with me where she was beside me the whole time, guiding me and entertaining all the questions I had about modeling.
This work experience has greatly aided in my understanding of not only 3D modeling but also how the Maya interface works. What made this experience stand out to me was how I was guided to create a model that would work for my partner’s style of animation using her techniques. It gave me the chance to have a one-on-one mentor and learn from seeing someone else’s workflow. The collaboration gave me a feel about 3D modeling and character making in the industry. Furthermore, it made me understand how each company will have a different type of workflow that we need to adapt to, and to not worry too much about not knowing everything at first. Most importantly, it made me understand how proper communication is extremely crucial to a successful collaboration.
Although it is unfortunate that due to my lack of experience I am unable to create more than one 3D model for my partner, I did complete all the roles that were given to me and the feedback I received was positive. Overall, I am incredibly satisfied and grateful for this collaboration. In the future, I would like to use the 3D modeling skills that I learned during this experience in my works, and would also like to be as helpful and communicative as my partner in all of my future collaborations.