How to hire 3D designers
3D graphics play a critical role in a wide variety of industries, including gaming, animation, engineering, VR development and architecture. If you’re looking for a freelancer who can help you create 3D images and models, a 3D designer can help.
So how do you find the right 3D designer for your needs? What follows are some tips for finding top 3D designers on Upwork.
How to shortlist 3D design freelancers
As you’re browsing available 3D design consultants, it can be helpful to develop a shortlist of the freelancers you may want to interview. You can screen profiles on criteria such as:
- Industry fit. While there’s a lot of overlap in 3D design tools across industries, they often have specific tools for certain industries.
- Workflow. You want a 3D designer who can slide right into your company workflow (e.g. Slack, Jira, etc.).
- Feedback Check reviews from past clients for glowing testimonials or red flags that can tell you what it’s like to work with a particular 3D designer.
How to write an effective 3D design job post
With a clear picture of your ideal 3D designer in mind, it’s time to write that job post. Although you don’t need a full job description as you would when hiring an employee, aim to provide enough detail for a contractor to know if they’re the right fit for the project.
An effective 3D design job post should include:
- Scope of work: From 3D printing to motion graphics, list all the deliverables you’ll need.
- Project length: Your job post should indicate whether this is a smaller or larger project.
- Background: If you prefer experience working with certain industries, design tools, or technologies, mention this here.
- Budget: Set a budget and note your preference for hourly rates vs. fixed-price contracts.
Ready to harness the power of 3D graphics for your business or organization? Log in and post your 3D design job on Upwork today.
3D Designers FAQs
What is 3D design?
3D design is an umbrella term that covers the creation of any 3D image or model. From rendering the 3D models to be used in a video game to designing skyscrapers for an architecture firm, 3D designers often specialize in different tools depending on the industries they serve.
The term 3D visualization is used synonymously with 3D graphics, 3D rendering, computer generated imagery (CGI), and other terms. They all basically refer to the process by which graphical content is created using 3D software. It’s a technology that has become mainstream over the last few decades and has evolved into one of the most viable options for producing high-quality digital content.
However, there are some common misconceptions regarding the terminology. It’s the process by which graphical content is created, meaning the end result is visual content (i.e., images and animations). It’s not the same as 3D design or 3D development, terms that generally refer to the production of content, such as computer-aided design (CAD) files, which are created by engineers or industrial designers and intended for manufacturing purposes. 3D artists may utilize CAD when developing 3D visualizations, but the end results are more than just CAD files—they’re dynamic graphics that blend both technical skill and artistry.
Here’s a quick overview of the skills you should look for in 3D design freelancers:
- 2D/3D drafting, rendering, and modeling
- 3D design tools such as Autodesk, Blender, and ZBrush
- Industry-specific tools (e.g., building information modeling tools for architects)
- Graphic design fundamentals such as color themes, typography, and illustration*
*Not necessary for architects and engineers
3D design consultants help businesses bring their 3D designs to life.
Why hire 3D designers?
The trick to finding top 3D designers is to identify your needs. Are you looking to create CAD files to generate 3D models for your 3D printer? Or do you need a 3D animator to bring your artistic vision to life in Maya? The cost of your project will depend largely on your scope of work, and the specific skills needed to bring your project to life.
How much does it cost to hire a 3D designer?
Rates can vary due to many factors, including expertise and experience, location, and market conditions.
- An experienced 3D designer may command higher fees but also work faster, have more-specialized areas of expertise, and deliver higher-quality work.
- A contractor who is still in the process of building a client base may price their 3D design services more competitively.
Which one is right for you will depend on the specifics of your project.