Nobody is born into game development (except for Cliffy B, who just sprung out fully formed out of a monitor one day). Vlada "Vzladka" Romaieva, known as "Lowlypoly" to the community started with architecture and ended up working as an environment artist for Crytivo Games. Find out how in this interview!
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you start with 3D modeling and texturing?
I graduated from university as an architect in 2010, so I was mostly focused on creating constructed forms of building and interior design. I did not feel like it was going to be my dream job, I did learn some of the modeling skills through creating 3d models of buildings, different constructions and interiors.
For me, everything started around the time of 2014's Assassin’s Creed release. This game inspired and motivated me to try my hand at creating 3D environments and characters for games. I spent some time getting some basic knowledge of 3D modeling for video games. I uploaded my first models to a couple of websites and, unexpectedly, got an incredible amount of feedback from different people. Their comments were very encouraging and I understood that I have to give myself a try and push past my limits.
How did you become a modeler for videogames?
After almost a year of practicing with 3D modeling, creating different objects and textures, I got an email from a company that wanted to interview me for the position of an environment artist. I was surprised because until then I had only done it for fun. That was the moment when I realized that it can be the start of my career as a 3D artist.
What do you enjoy most about working in the industry?
At this moment I am working with an awesome team of people at Crytivo Games and I am very thankful to be a part of it. I got inspired by ‘ The Universim’ game at first sight. I like to play video games and I am always attentive to details of the 3D objects that appear there. Excellent work made by the other experienced artists always inspires me to take next step and learn something new in modeling and texturing 3D objects. Every model that requires some skills that I don’t have yet I treat as an interesting challenge, and I really enjoy it.
How did you find your passion for modeling environment and props for videogames?
Some part of the architect still lives inside me and that is the reason I am focusing on game environments. I have a passion for modeling low poly buildings and props texturing them with the hand-painted style, and I’m always trying to get the best possible result.
What kind of research do you do before you start modeling?
Before I start modeling new objects, I search the web for sketches and images that can inspire me and give some ideas. The second step I take is creating a board with all the ideas and details I’ve found. Then I create base forms of objects; after these preparations everything goes depending on project specifics.
How do you market your products? Can you share some tips & tricks?
Some of my private works I post not only in to my portfolio but also on the other places on the internet where other people can get them. I always share some free models so everyone can take a look how the model is made and see the quality of my assets.
How did you find CGTrader?
I found the CGTrader website on the internet and I found it very easy and clear to use and upload my work there for sale. It should also be noted that the royalty rates are very fair. I was very pleased when I found out that some of my models were ‘Low-Poly Challenge Winners’, ‘Low-Poly Model Of The Month’ and ‘top 5 Low-Poly Models’. At this moment I find CGTrader one of the best computer graphics trading platforms. Thank you, CGTrader team, you are doing great job.
Do you have a moment from working in the industry to share with us?
I always have some new challenge testing me and pushing me to improve my modeling and texturing skills. Every day I feel more confident in what I’m doing, and it is a great for learning new things. I experienced that hard work is always rewarded at the end and brings great results. So my advice for anyone taking their first steps in to the CG world it to not be afraid of taking a challenge and learning something new!
What’s the hardest thing about being a professional 3D designer?
The hardest thing about being a 3D artist is finding a balance between quality of the models and the time you have for it. So the first rule that I came up with after several years of working as an environment artist is to always leave some time for corrections. Following that ruleallows me to be satisfied with my models almost every time.
What software do you use?
I use 3D Max, Zbrush, 3D Coat and Photoshop almost on every project. Marmoset Toolbag is useful for for making some quick test renders. I would like to learn 3D Maya one day, but for now I just can’t find time for it.
What is your magnum opus, so far?
I still think that the Fantasy Castle Environment I created at the beginning of my 3D artist career is one of my best models. I didn't have that much knowledge or skill while working on, so I like it because feeling of comfort and atmosphere it gives me when I’m looking at it rather than any technical accomplishment.
What is the most impressive 3D model you have ever seen?
I would not say that I have seen all of the game 3D models, so there are probably a lot of things that can make an impression on me. I’d rather say that I like the art style of some games rather of particular models. For example, World of Warcraft is a great game with excellent 3D object performance.
Do you have a dream or an idea that you hope to model one day?
My biggest dream is to try myself in character modeling, rigging and animation. I always wanted to get a chance to say ‘It’s alive!’
What do you think about the rise of virtual reality in relation to your work?
I think that using virtual reality devices will give a huge boost to game development in general. For me, it’ll give a chance to get an experience of creating a whole new beautiful virtual world.
Please finish the following sentences (being as honest as you can be):
My greatest inspiration is... every new game that is filled with great environment and character 3D models that gives a feeling of immersion to its atmosphere.
When I catch myself procrastinating, I… try to ignore the work that I’m looking at and imagine the best final result; that way few fresh ideas always appear on my mind.
I’m the most productive when… I am listening to my favorite music and diving right in to work process.
I take a break from my work when…I almost don't have breaks from work. Even at my free time I’m doing something that is related to CG because the only thing that makes me happy is seeing the great results of my work.
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