innerdream

I hope you like long hours, big egos from people designing mini malls and low or no pay! Architecture is a profession for people who have rich families or made their money else where. I have to give you the reality.

And, if you free lance you will have to compete with wage earners from the undeveloped world. Now isn't this fun!?!

Andy Park

Hi,

I'm 31 and I am currently working in a call centre. I use 3ds a hobby mainly.

I approached an architectural firm last year to find out how to get into the business as a visualiser. He gave me some great pointer and even some sample dwg files to get me started on learning Autocad.

I have no formal training no experience in architecture, but I worked on my portfolio. Last week I got a call asking me to come in for an interview. I should hear in about 3 weeks if I get the job.

From what I can tell experience is not essential, being able to read architectural drawings is handy. Your portfolio should be all you need. If I get the job I'll let you know.

PAWUK

From what I can tell experience is not essential, being able to read architectural drawings is handy. Your portfolio should be all you need. If I get the job I'll let you know.[/quote]


Good luck Andy.....wish I had the balls to change over , Id like to do the same

haflen

Hello peoples how are we all? This is a great thread, I'm in a similar situation.
I believe RodT has a good point about onsite experience, although probably not possible for every one, my experience and 10 years as a plumber have certainly given me some great skills which I believe will transfer across to the visualisation field. I studied Architectural Drafting before taking on a plumbing apprentiship and now wish to return to the architectural field. I've recently gone back to school to study a diploma of screen (3d computer graphics and animation) there's nothing where I live (that I've found) that is specific to architectural visualisation.

I do have a question (well questions) for those of you that have gone out on your own. What was your experience like? What advice do you have in starting your own visualisation business, the dos and don'ts? How to approach potential clients? Also, who to speak to about general business advice? Given my past experience in contruction and studying 3d for the past 3 years, I know I can make the switch.