Core Skills for Technical Artists¶
This section covers the fundamental skills and knowledge that every Technical Artist should possess, regardless of their specialization.
3D Graphics Fundamentals¶
Learning Resources¶
- 📚 Fundamentals of Computer Graphics (Marschner & Shirley)
- 🎥 The Art of Code (Inigo Quilez)
- 📄 Scratchapixel 2.0
- 🎮 Learn OpenGL
Key Concepts¶
- Linear Algebra for Graphics
- Color Theory and Color Spaces
- Coordinate Systems
- Rendering Pipeline
- Lighting and Shading Models
Programming Skills¶
Learning Resources¶
- 🎥 C# Fundamentals (Pluralsight)
- 📚 Python for Artists (Jeremy Cantor)
- 💻 Shader Development (Shader Toy)
Essential Languages¶
- C#/C++
- Python
- HLSL/GLSL
- MEL/Python for Maya
Digital Content Creation (DCC) Tools¶
Must-Know Software¶
- Maya/3ds Max
- Blender
- Substance Designer/Painter
- Houdini (basics)
- Photoshop
Learning Resources¶
Game Engines¶
Unreal Engine¶
- 🎥 Unreal Engine 5 Technical Artist Essentials
- 📚 Material System Documentation
- 💻 Blueprint Visual Scripting
Unity¶
Version Control & Collaboration¶
Git Fundamentals¶
Project Management¶
- Jira/Trello basics
- Documentation writing
- Communication with different teams
Performance & Optimization¶
Resources¶
Recommended Learning Path¶
- Start with programming basics (Python/C#)
- Learn one DCC tool thoroughly (Maya or Blender)
- Master fundamental 3D graphics concepts
- Get comfortable with one game engine
- Learn version control
- Explore specialized areas
Practice Projects¶
- Create a custom asset processing tool
- Build a shader library
- Develop an artist-friendly tool UI
- Set up an automated pipeline for asset conversion
- Create a performance profiling tool
Remember: Focus on understanding the underlying principles rather than just learning software. Tools change, but fundamentals remain constant.