Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
designers. Game programmers will usually provide demo code and will work with
game artists to create a DVD that contains a playable game prototype.
Most creatives in the game industry at the technical-creative end work full-
time for game companies. Because no game engine has emerged as a standard, it is
common for game design programmers and designers to use one or two prototypes as
content for a portfolio reel to land an entry-level staff position. Once there, you'll
master the company's specific engine or apply a programming language in a proprie-
tary project.
Game artists, on the other hand, are frequently hired guns who move from
project to project. Their portfolios tend to combine the game aesthetics of 2D or 3D
play with the guidelines of their basic area—storyboard or character design artists
have online or disc portfolios that look like illustrators' portfolios, while game anima-
tors' portfolios are always demo reels, with or without a designed wrapper.
Performance
Performing artists have joined the ranks of creative professionals presenting
themselves digitally. Standards for performance digital portfolios are still evolving.
Aesthetic expectations are still fairly undemanding, but seamless craft and good quali-
ty film resolution can be very important. A digital portfolio offers the opportunity for
a performer to establish credibility and to provide a more professional presentation.
However, as most performers do not have training in the visual arts or programming,
it's usually best to hire someone to follow the professional guidelines—good quality
video samples of your work, one or more high-resolution images of yourself, and a
well-designed resume in PDF form.
Don't be surprised if you come across portfolios of senior professionals that
stretch the limits. These profiles can't represent the state of the profession for every-
one at every point in their careers. When an individual moves upward professionally
or carves a unique niche, he or she can salt the common wisdom to taste. If you are
just starting out, are trying to improve your chances, or are shifting into a new area,
you can't. Although you can, and should, push yourself to offer the most creative and
innovative presentation and work that you can, pushing far beyond the guidelines
may simply make your audience think that you don't know what those guidelines are.
That's a particularly important idea to keep in mind as you move from a general
understanding of your profession's expectations to the specifics of who you are in
relation to your chosen audience.
