Conclusion
I prepared this portfolio over the course of two years while working full-time. I mainly worked on it after hours during the weekdays and focused more intensively on weekends and holidays. For the final five months, I left my job to dedicate myself entirely to the project and complete it properly.
The most challenging part of production was definitely texturing. Coming from an architectural visualization background, I initially created materials that were too clean and sterile. They lacked storytelling and realism. Realizing this, I had to completely rethink how I approached textures and spent a lot of time studying references and practicing new techniques. It was difficult, but also the most rewarding phase of the entire process.
Through this project, I used a wide range of 3D tools and tackled many types of materials. Most importantly, I developed the confidence to start anything without hesitation, even if it’s something I’ve never tried before. I learned that taking that first step matters the most.
For aspiring environment artists, I recommend observing the world around you with more curiosity. Actively collect references, not just images from the internet, but also by taking your own photos. Touch materials, observe how surfaces react to light, and pay attention to wear, roughness, or human traces. These small details will elevate your work and ground it in reality.
Lastly, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the team at 80 Level for giving me the opportunity to share the process behind my portfolio project.
