+1 929-458-6213
Location, skillset, and other factors can play a huge role in how much 3D modelers make. But we have found out the average pay of most 3D modelers. So today, we will talk about it in detail.
As 3D modeling is a bit of a new and trendy task, the question around them is a lot higher, so getting the exact data might be confusing.
Our team has completed in-depth research to provide accurate and exact data according to the current situation.
Let’s get into the details of the 3D modeler’s payment, bonus, freelancing rate, etc.
To begin with, 3D modelers are the ones who create models, shapes, and sculptures in computer simulated software. These three-dimensional models then get used as an asset for different projects. For example, it could be games, animation movies, 3D simulations and purposes.
3D modelers have to learn full-fledged software to master 3D modeling most of the time. Plus, many people have questions about what 3D modelers do; they either take a job or go freelance. Or Some of the 3D models may choose to work on their modeling projects.
Estimation on How Much Do 3D Modelers Make
Below, we have listed the pay rate for a decent 3D modeler. We have divided these pay into three different parts. It would help you to better understand how 3D modelers make.
Average Base Pay
The annual salary is $54,150/yr for most the 3D modelers. Hence, it’s the base pay rate most 3D modelers get each year. When you divide these amounts into months, it stands for $4,512. Of course, these estimations can vary according to the modeler’s location.
Plus, you need to consider the skill set of the 3D modelers. When considering the enhanced skillset, the average base pay would be higher. In addition, it doesn’t include the additional payments for the project or task. We will talk about it in the next section.
Additional Payment
Let’s talk about the additional payments of 3D modelers. In numbers, $16,786/yr is the average additional earnings for modelers. Perhaps, these additional gains include benefits such as bonuses, tips, and similar.
When you divide the total additional earnings of 3D modelers per month, it would be around $1,398. Hence, the additional income of 3D modelers leads them to earn around $70,000 in a year. And it makes the whole amount a high-paying career to go upon.
Freelancing Rates
When you are looking for a freelance 3D modeler’s salary per hour, it’s around $16–$35/hr. These are the rates anyone would find out on most job posting platforms such as Upwork. Hence, hourly pricing is the most common paying scheme for freelancing tasks.
As with the other parameters, the previous experience of the modeler counts as well. It’s one of the most deciding factors when deciding the freelancing rates. However, you could go for a project, but it’s good for you when you have larger projects. More in the next section.
Related: How Much Does 3D Rendering Cost?
Popular Charging Scheme for 3D Modelers
Below, we go over the most common charging schemes for most 3D modelers. Learning these options would make you understand each of the schemes from the inside out. Let’s get started.
Per Hour Rate
On the per hour rate, you calculate the total hours a 3D modeler works. As we have mentioned earlier, it’s one of the popular schemes for freelancing jobs. For example, the employer might use software to calculate the hours spent on a specific day.
It’s one of the safest ways to charge for 3D modeling projects. Because the modeler gets the required pay rate according to the hours spent on a job, on the other hand, it might backfire if the modeler takes more than usual time to complete a specific task.
Per Project
Charging according to the projects is yet another popular scheme for 3D tasks. Most of the time, 3D projects are huge in quantities. For example, a project could be a rendering job for 15 products. As a result, the cost of projects can be a bit higher than usual.
But one of the upsides of charging is project wise: it fastens up the whole job. Plus, the result of the 3D modeling project comes out as cohesive, which works in favor of both the 3D modeler and the employer.
Per Render
Another efficient way for 3D modelers to charge is by charging per render or the duration. Like, the modeler could charge a specific amount for a still render. On the other hand, if the render consists of multiple frames, the modeler would charge based on the video’s minutes or seconds.
But, how much to charge for a render can be confusing. It depends on the complexity of the task. Check out the pricing chart of 3D rendering and animation services to better understand it. These pricing charts could be a great starting point for you.
The pathway on How To Become A 3D Modeler
These are the basic steps to being a great 3D modeler. Hence, it’s only a general outline of becoming a stable 3D career. Below are these steps which you should learn as a beginner in 3D:
- Get a formal education in 3D(optional).
- Learn the basics of the software.
- Find out the 3D industry which suits your interest.
- Start working on an internship.
- Go for a strong portfolio.
- Land a job at a creative studio or service provider.
Let’s talk about the most common questions you could get onto.
Is It Hard To Learn Blender 3D?
Learning blender is a lot easier but gaining excellence is a bit difficult. Due to its higher number of features, newcomers can get overwhelmed by learning it. Hence, it’s as difficult as other 3D software is. Many are confused about the features, but it’s not hard to start learning.
How Much Does An Animation Modeler Make?
According to Dreamworks studio, the average animation modeler makes around $92,917 per year. And it shows that the pay rate in animation 3D modeling can vary a lot depending upon the studio and the project.
How To Determine A Pay Rate For A 3D Modeling Task?
The best way to calculate the pay rate is to use a relevant pricing chart. Hence, you should use recent and updated pricing charts. It would help you determine the perfect pay rate for a specific 3D modeling task. Nonetheless, make sure to consider other aspects when deciding the pricing.
Conclusion
Now you know how much 3D modelers make on average. So when you are an aspiring 3D modeler or someone who wants to hire a 3D modeler, it’s beneficial.
As you get to know more about 3D modeling and its costs, it would avoid any sort of misunderstanding as well.
Hence, 3D modelers make a hefty amount comparing them to other artists. But, it needs high-end skills and knowledge about the modeling process.
Plus, the timeline to becoming a 3D modeler is much lighter.
Have questions? Leave it down below.
I am Katja Miyatovich, a 3D artist with almost 5 years of experience in the industry. Currently, I live in New York, USA, and work in a full-scale 3D studio. In addition, I own a separate team working on several different creative projects. Plus, sharing in-depth knowledge about 3D is one of my passions.
Related Posts
