2D Compositor versus 3D Generalist

[cgbub]

Hi there,

I have been a vfx compositor for a year now in TV series. However, I'm very interested in 3D as well and plan to transfer into the 3D modeling/generalist field in VFX...

Despite having more interest in 3D, money is definitely an issue...
1) How does the wage of a senior 3D artist/modeler compare to the wage of a Senior 2D compositor?
2) What is the salary expectation of a 3D artist? 0-1 yr, 2-3yrs, 4-5, 5-7....etc

Money-wise, is it wise to make a move from 2D to 3D?

Please advise.

I've been doing some research already and have been gathering numbers, I simply would need more advice to back up my research. Thank you!

cgbub

[avillabon]

what have you found so far? 3d more profitable?

Alex

[cgbub]

I have found that in general (correct me if I'm wrong please anyone), 2D Senior compositors will end up earning more than 3D Senior artists...

I'm residing in Vancouver, I noticed however that there way more 3D job openings in the VFX industry than 2D compositors. Not to mention, 2D motion design I find is very small in Vancouver too (correct me if I'm wrong again).

I can't help but to feel if I move into the 3D field, there's more OPPORTUNITIES. Money wise however, it feels like 2D Compositors earn more..

I'm confused with my next career move, I enjoy doing both, please advice.

Thanks!
cgbub

[Gentle Fury]

I don't know, I do this because I love doing it, not to get rich. I would like to make more than I am currently making, but I still love doing what i do, and would only consider changing if it was to work on more challenging projects.

[Joevfx]

it really depends on wher eyou go to work, Soem compositors might make more then the 3D guys at one place but less at another.

[Andreas.Jablonka]

it alls boils down to:
(years of experience)*(how much they need you)+(who you know)=rate
a senior 3d modeler will more likely get into a supervisor position than a senior comper (too many of em). a senior houdini td makes serious cash. if you transfer and start you wont earn much. but i doubt there is much difference between 2d or 3d. keep in mind. compers are ALWAYS the last ones to get hired because we finish the shots. strong argument for the company (not saying not having data to out in a shot is less important, this is a bout business psychology)

[mattoo_80]

I think it depends on the location and the studio. Out west in an established studio, you might make $60 - $80 based on experience. Maybe more. I'm in the midwest and work for a newer studio so they really cant afford as much on payroll. Yeah I could make more money on the coast, but here I can afford a 1630sqr foot house two miles from the richest city in my state.