How 3D Illustration is Changing the World

There's little doubt that the entertainment industry is going 3D. Technological advancements are creating media that engage a whole new range of senses. From finding valuable sources of energy to improving the way you watch football Sunday morning, 3D illustration professionals are changing the world and the way we view it.

The computer niche of 3D illustration is coming into its own. Businesses and organizations are beginning to see the potential that 3D illustration holds for productivity and progress. "This absolutely will change entertainment," says Robin Curle, CEO of Zebra Imaging in Austin, Texas. "We live in a 3-D world, and we shouldn't still be watching TV and movies in 2-D." Of course, watching TV in 3D is just the tip of the iceberg. Advances in science and technology are fueled by 3D illustrations.

3D Illustration Technologies

• Finding Oil Reserves. New 3D laboratories are using high resolution illustration to examine sources of petroleum deep within the Earth?s surface, allowing for the strategic planning of acquisition.
• Studying Planet Surfaces. High-tech sensors placed on space crafts can detect the surface features of a planet and return 3D illustrations that characterize the actual topography.
• The Entertainment Front. 3D hologram imaging is being tested in a new generation of high-definition television sets that provide depth and texture to the traditional 2D images we?re used to seeing.

The great thing about this industry is that it is constantly changing and in need of qualified candidates. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 3D illustration is one a hot new career paths for computer professionals.

A Career in 3D Illustration

• Educational Requirements. Most employers prefer a bachelor's degree in computer graphics along with advanced training in 3D illustration technologies.
• Employment Outlook. Employment of 3D illustration pros is expected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations through the year 2014.
• Job Salary. In May 2004, median annual salary for multi-media artists and animators was about $50,000.

Earn your degree in 3D illustration and make your own contributions to the betterment of society (not to mention Monday night football).

Sources
US Bureau of Labor Statistics
MSNBC