This is a long, philosophical discussion about anything from trends, supply & demand, changing times and tech to humanity itself.
As someone who is exclusively buying and not selling 3d models, there are more issues than just "AI is bad" - and I also see a light at the end of the tunnel...one that isn't an oncoming freight train ;)
- And just to be clear: These observations are NOT a criticism of any particular creator or the OP. Just general observations.
• Overload of crap models taken from games:
Mind you, I mostly purchase car-related assets - but that particular segment is flooded with models ripped from games and poorly converted into assets. This is not an AI issue, but simply people being lazy and/or wanting to make a quick buck.
• Overload of the same type of models:
It's great to have several versions of a particular model to choose from, but - at least in the automotive segment - there seems to be an overrepresentation of certain car models and brands. Creating models that are needed instead of doing what everyone else is doing, might help.
• Not standing out:
See above (doing the same as everyone else). But in addition, there are very few artists comparatively who create models that stand out re quality, usability or creativity.
If you focus on standing out more, I am sure that will help.
• Poor quality: There is just a lot of crap models out there. I have purchase hundreds of models on CGT a other platforms, and while I have become relatively good at spotting poor quality, I am still surprised at times by the sheer lack of basic quality of many of the models I have. From poor topology to bad textures or simply poorly structured files.
Basic, good craftsmanship builds loyal clients. There is a reason why some of the top players in certain segments have been around for many years: They may not deliver the best of one particular model/theme compared to other offers, but they are consistent in quality and their assets are easy to work with and never gives you extra grief.
• Ignore the AI hysteria: Yes, it will kill off a lot of small businesses, and yes it will - and has already - change the way we see creativity in general and 3D specifically.
But it is an absolute waste of time to debate these things, because it will not change anything. Not a single thing.
Instead, focus on building loyal clients, cater to them - and listen to what is needed in the market instead of "just making another model because [trend, habit, comfort etc]".
There are two types of clients overall IMO:
Those who are not interested in HOW the end product is made (and will happily use AI to get there), and those who like the process or NEED to have custom assets made.
I happen to belong to the latter group, and I am sure I am far from the only one.
Sure, I use AI for many things - especially smaller projects for which it would make zero sense spending money or time on 3D work - but for my automotive art, I only use it to generate ideas or on rare occasions some distant backgrounds etc.
For every trend there is a counter-trend. It has always been like this, and it always will be like this.
AI will be great for certain things in the long run - and it will suck for other things.
Some people will follow the AI trend to the bitter end and THEN (possibly) change their ways, and others have already decided to not go the AI route.
You can not sell many 3d models to the first group - but I believe there is a lot of potential in the second group; and while they (myself included) absolutely love getting great models for little money, we/I also have no issues paying more for quality assets.
My two cents.
