Day in the life
We chat to the experienced artist about life as a freelance generalist
Industry veteran Ant Ward shares how he spends a typical day as a freelance generalist
Regular contributor to 3D World, Antony Ward, is an industry veteran with decades of experience, having worked for top VFX studios as well as writing in-depth manuals and guides on a variety of fields. We asked him to share how he spends a typical day.
How do you get started and set yourself up for the day ahead?
My day usually begins at around 7:30am, that’s when the rest of the house is up so it makes sense to dive right in. Plus, I find these initial golden hours very productive, because it’s before my clients start work, so I can focus on other things. I use this time for planning my day’s schedule, replying to emails and the comments on my Youtube channel. I also use this period to do some painting. Even though I work primarily in 3D, I want to keep on top of my traditional art skills too and this time gives me the opportunity to do that.
Can you describe your role as a freelance generalist?
With my career starting so long ago, before people had specific roles, we were expected, as artists, to be able to do a bit of everything. So, I learned modelling, texturing, rigging and even animation. I found in the long run it made me a more valuable team member because when one project finished, I was able to jump onto another, no matter what was needed.
I find that being a generalist also helps when being freelance. Again, because I have experience in all these areas it means I have more options when it comes to looking for new contracts.
What kind of day-to-day challenges do you face as a freelance generalist?
When you freelance every day is a challenge. Even if you’re busy you are always thinking ahead to when that contract ends and what you will do next. So, as well as doing your client work you are also keeping on top of your social media presence, updating your portfolio and reaching out to other potential
clients. All this while maintaining the quality of your work, so it’s a lot to juggle.
It’s good to be focused and plan times for doing certain things, rather than get distracted with one and sacrifice time.
What’s the best thing about your role?
I love the freedom that comes with being freelance. I can usually work the hours that suit me, and I can also come and go as I please without having to clear it with a manager. This has enabled me to spend more time with my kids, which is priceless.
I also like being able to choose the type of work I do; one month I’ll be animating, the next building rigs. I think it’s the variety which keeps me enjoying it. Since going freelance I’ve been able to work on some amazing projects, while also expanding my area of expertise outside games and into visual effects.
How do you typically end the day? What needs to be done before you can leave? And how do you unwind from a day of creativity?
I always have an idea in my head of what I need to accomplish that day, so I make sure I achieve that before I finish. When working from home it’s important to have a separate space to work in so once I’m finished for the day, I close the door and that’s it.
As for unwinding, I do the usual. I go to the gym to stay healthy and socialise with my family and friends. When you work from home it’s easy to get into a routine where you don’t see other people, so it’s good to make the effort and maintain those connections. I also play a lot of games; it’s all research after all!
What kind of work do you do outside of your day job and why?
I find that my job is all encompassing, so it’s lucky that it’s my hobby too. As far as other work goes, I guess recording tutorials for my Youtube channel has become like a second job with the amount of time each video takes. The feedback I get from my subscribers really pushes me to keep creating, so I try and upload as often as I can.
I’ve also found a renewed passion for drawing and painting. Just digitally at the moment, but I might go analogue at some point in the future.