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Do i need to change my art style to study 3d animation?

I am going to study 3d animation starting next year. Since i was 10 i began drawing manga. Now i am 17 and i moved to drawing comic style (marvel/dc). The thing is, i was wondering if it is better to change my style to something more like pixar movies and that kind of stuff or to remain the realistic style of comics. Also i am lacking anatomy studies in my drawings, any recomendations?

Public Comments

1. i don't think you need to change your style. first of all depends what animation you are trying to make. you can still make a 3d person with any mesh.
2. Now days, you must not only compete with other artists who work in traditional media, but you also have to compete with non-artists who know how to use programs like Photoshop and Gimp and Illustrator and can "fake" what previously could only be done by artists. Add to that artists who can work in both traditional media and graphic software and there is a ton of competition out there. What you need to do is learn everything you can but the newest jobs really do rely on a strong knowledge of 3D rendering tools with a solid background in perspective and anatomy. If you are under 18, you can sign up for teen second life and learn a lot in there about 3D design.
3. Get some good anatomy for artists books and take a s many life drawing classes as you can. Do not give up on learning how to draw from real life. 3D animation is done differently from traditional media, but learning traditional techniques and anatomy will help you become a better artist overall. Byrne Hogarth's Dynamic Anatomy book is a pretty good start. You can get it at any of the big book store chains or online.
4. In any endeavor you embark upon your greatest tool is knowledge, It is not an issue of change, it is an issue of acquired knowledge. Your style of art is God's gift to you on how you interpret or view the world. What you need to do to grow as an artist is learn the correct use of anatomy, perspective, and for comics and animation, dynamic story telling. These lessons incorporated into your art will make you a successful Illustrator or animator, and will enhance your style of artwork. It is good that you have a background in manga illustration, and also experience with western styles of comic illustration; because the more variety you bring to the table the more work/jobs you will be able to qualify for. It is better to be able to draw Mickey Mouse, The Guyver, and the Fantastic Four than to just be able to draw Mickey Mouse. Your style of drawing is what makes your artwork uniquely yours, but the knowledge of correct illustrating technique's is what will get you through the doors of business, in the fields of graphics and animation. Learning new styles enhances your abilities, and thus your resume. There are many books you can read on anatomy, perspective, manga, and comic book illustration. I like some of the industry publications like Blue Line Pro's SKETCH magazine, and Wizard's: How to Draw series; both have information straight from the industry professionals. Check with your neighborhood comic shop for more publications; you may find some great deals on drawing books. I recently picked up several drawing technique books marked down in the Trade Paperbacks section to $4.00 each. Continue to take drawing classes, and the 3D animation classes as well, and I'm sure one day we will see you in the ranks of the pros. Remember the number one factor in reaching any goal or dream is determination. God bless your efforts, and may he always gift you with a portion of his creative spirit. Peace, G.