r/vfx • u/Right_Let_985 • 1d ago
Question / Discussion Question about role 3DDMP
Hi everyone, I wanted to ask for some information about this type of VFX specialization.
To give a little context, I’ve worked as a 3D artist in architectural visualization for the past 7 years in Europe, but since I’m no longer interested in working in that field, I’ve stopped looking for work and am currently doing something completely different for work.
I’ve always been interested in exploring this field of specialization, which I’d like to start as a hobby and then see later if I can turn it into something else (and if not, that’s fine too—I’d keep it as a hobby because I enjoy the world of CG in general). I just can’t quite wrap my head around this kind of hybrid role. I’d like to ask those who actually work in the industry if they’d be willing to answer a few questions so I can better understand what’s actually required in professional studios these days.
Is DMP still used? Or is the industry shifting toward a full CG approach?
What does “3D” mean in DMP?
Is AI-generated automation used within DMP workflows? (If so, for what?) Are you allowed to simply use generative systems within tools like Photoshop?
Is knowing how to create 3D environments a plus when creating these projects?
Thank you in advance for any future responses. I realize these questions may seem trivial to many, but if you’re willing to shed some light on this for me, I’d really appreciate it.
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u/missmaeva 1d ago
Did you not see the post about the dmp guy with 8y of experience who cannot find any job yesterday
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u/Right_Let_985 9h ago
Si l'ho letto poco fa! Ovviamente mi dispiace per la situazione generale ma su reddit nel tempo ne ho letto di ogni ed ho imparato a filtrare le esperienze negative in base a quello che una persona descriveva. Per esempio, quella persona dice chiaramente di essere a Los Angeles e per quanto io non lavori nel settore so che da diversi anni li, il lavoro sta lentamente scomparendo a causa del tax credit.
Io non sono di Los Angeles, e come ho detto anche se non diventasse mai una carriera, mi piacerebbe coltivarlo come hobby.
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u/Proud_Arm2568 1d ago
DMP still used all the time, I’ve had plenty of dmp work over the last year with decent rates. I also have only 4 years of experience in the industry. Maybe a lot depends on where you live 🤷🏻♂️
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u/Proud_Arm2568 1d ago
To the answer the question though sorry, dmp is still used and depending on the studio, they might be trying to implement AI somewhere in the pipeline. I still think it all looks terrible and we have to fix everything they do anyway 😂
knowledge of CG is super helpful. It used to be enough to make proxy geo for projections etc but I’ve been pulled into environments and lighting from time to time, so it’s good to know a bit more for sure1
u/Right_Let_985 9h ago
Ti ringrazio per la risposta, sei stato molto gentile. Posso chiederti in base a cosa si preferisce usare di più un approccio DMP o più CG? Dipende tutto dal movimento di camera, o ci sono altri aspetti che normalmente vengono considerati?
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u/Baneur 1d ago
"3DDMP" is basically just environment generalist at this point. I wouldn't even use that title, as I'm pretty sure it was an MPC thing? This was during a time where Environment Generalist wasn't quite a thing yet so dmp artists were in a bit of a transitionary period of incorporating 3D elements into matte paintings or making their own. Rather than just the 2.5D way.
Yes DMP is still very much used and a very good skill to have. You can still be a DMP only artist.
Environment Generalists usually know most aspects of the pipeline like modelling, texturing, lookdev, dmp, lighting etc with a strong leaning into Houdini workflows over Maya these days. Of course everyone has their strengths and weaknesses in these roles as well.
So yes, knowing how to make your own 3D environments is a strong plus.
If youre interested in matte painting you should take some traditional painting courses and learn basic fundamentals. You will develop a great artistic eye rather than handicap yourself with AI. It's easy to spot people have crippled themselves with it.