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A friend wanted me to learn a variety of technologies involving 3D on spec (i.e. for free) because he thinks it will be good for me and it will help me to make money. I am sure he is sincere. I promised to write a blog post which will attempt to explain the situation.
1. I am not sure the exact numbers, but I would guess that I spend at least half my time (as integrated over some period of time) learning new things on spec. I learn them because they will help me do projects I want to do and because I think they are important to know about. Examples are machine learning, so-called physically based rendering, Tensorflow, Arnold, Python, Javascript. Therefore, if there is something new to add to the list of things I learn on spec, then it needs to get in line, there is a lot in the queue ahead of it.
2. I have no particular hope or interest in making money with 3D. I dont think it is very likely so telling me "learn this and you will make a lot of money" means nothing to me. I do hope, however, to do good work, possibly but not necessarily with 3D, in some sense of the term "good work". That may mean research, or an art project, or perhaps a public service project of some sort. However this is not for you to say, nor is it for you to say what skills I will need to do that.
3. I sincerely doubt I will be permitted to make a living going forward, and even if I am permitted, I doubt it will be with computer graphics. You dont agree with that? Fine! Offer me a job. Be specific. Put it in writing.
4. I spent a great deal of time in Hollywood. Every asshole is trying to get work for free. Just do this and you will make a lot of money. How do you say "fuck you" in Hollywood? "Trust me".
5. I have had non-subtle experiences with things that are universal formats, or which are designed for the production flow of a large corporation. The individual need not apply. It isnt designed for the individual nor is it useful to him/her outside of the context of the large corporation.
6. Therefore, if you want me to do something for free, I suggest you make your best case and then leave it alone. If I can, I will. If I dont think it is worth my while, then I wont, at least not at that time. Very often, in things like this, it may be that I do get to it, but in my own time.
I have no doubt my friend means well.
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