Are you a digital art graduate or a professional CGI artist making 3D assets for a company? Are you interested in selling 3D models? Then it is essential to understand the following nuances before diving headfirst into it.

• Firstly, it is a common misbelief that 3D art finds its use only in the gaming industry. However, contrary to popular belief: 3D is everywhere! Interestingly, 3D visualization can benefit various fields such as eCommerce, manufacturing, product design, media and advertising, architecture, medical applications, and the list goes on.

• Secondly, 3D modeling has recently garnered interest with the global pandemic affecting businesses worldwide. The dual benefit of cost-effectiveness and efficiency is why industries are willing to test out 3D technology. In fact, during 2022-2027, the global market for 3D mapping and modeling is forecasted to have a CAGR of 17.2%. Hence, whether you are a newbie, an experienced professional, or a freelance digital artist, our pro tips are sure to help you sell your work.

Photo by ZMorph All-in-One 3D Printers on Unsplash

Here is a complete guide offering critical advice to help you succeed.

Workflow for 3D Assets

A digital artist who wants to go commercial must understand that the success of 3D markets is also related to the business strategy. With businesses not having time or resources to create 3D models by themselves, they look to a CGI artist who understands the digital 3D art process. Knowledge of the 3D modeling workflow will give you a good sense of the expected quality from a CGI artist. Here is a general outline that will cover the workflow to be followed by a digital artist:

1. Render a 3D layer through UV projection.

2. Undertake texture baking in varied sizes (1k, 2k, 4k, etc.).

3. Record and tag the textures accurately.

4. Build a setup with appropriate camera angles and lighting.

5. Performing image synthesis to generate images with and without wireframe.

6. Export the model into the required file formats.

7. Save the model using the blank blend file as the native configuration.

8. Sort and store in a folder for further zipping and upload.

9. Upload the rendered models.

10. Make a concise note of the title and description of the model.

11. Price estimation and setting.

12. Publishing as per marketing specifications. While a traditional workflow has been provided here, you need to understand that it can vary greatly, and you may take additional steps.

What You Should Do As a 3D Artist

While 3D modeling is predominantly driven by creativity, quality always remains the focal point to appeal to a broader audience. Here are a few strategies to help you prepare your models for sale.

What You Should Do

• Create model versions without third-party plugins. Some digital artists use external plugins (LumenRT, Brighter 3D, or Maxwell) to create photorealistic models. However, many businesses may not access the paid or pro plugins or renderers used. Hence, make sure you generate model versions with and without the plugins for better usability.

• Create sample images and provide multiple displays To let businesses understand your model better, provide images with multiple views such as thumbnail, 360 animation, wireframe images, usability options, etc. Several renderings of the model will achieve more positive results.

• Consider exporting to additional file formats For better reach and a steady stream of sales, ensure that your 3D art is available in various file formats (such as FBX, OBJ, or DAE). Additionally, avoid automatic file converters with a higher chance of skewed or broken conversions.

What You Shouldn’t Do

• False Promotions

While showing previews may be necessary for better visibility, showing false images may warrant refunds and negative reviews. If any information is provided or missing from your description, it is better to mention it explicitly for customers to make the right purchasing decision.

• Publish only error-free models

A customer experience is most important while downloading or putting the file to use. You should ensure appropriate testing before uploading them, as a single error can have a negative impact on the customer’s workflow.

• Use only relevant keywords and tags

When you upload the files for your 3D art, there is generally an option to use specific tags to trigger a product search result. You should use only those keywords or categories associated with your model to generate more sales.

Photo by ZMorph All-in-One 3D Printers on Unsplash

What to Expect from Selling 3D Models?

While you may have taken the big step towards selling your 3D art, you need to understand that gaining popularity and credibility will take time. As a digital artist, you need to have confidence in your work and be patient to achieve your sales target. In conclusion, here are the three takeaways of this guide:

• Be updated with the market trends and continuously sense the industry for any changes in demand

• Follow a workflow and provide complete and accurate information while putting your 3D art up for sale

• Understand the established processes, practices, and instructions and follow them in good faith. If you are looking for a solution to power your 3D art, check out Vagon for some interesting insights. Our supercomputer solutions help your creativity achieve greater heights!