What is the training environment like for product design and what are the opportunities open to students w.r.t the animation and VFX placements in India?

Product design involves the amalgamation of art and science to create visually appealing and functional everyday items, ranging from common articles like mobile phones, helmets, and water bottles to more specialized products such as medical equipment, industrial tools, and airplane bodies. Product designers utilize various techniques like manual drawing, digital painting, digital illustrations, and 3D modeling to conceive and develop ideas, working on design briefs to enhance existing products or introduce new ones.

Collaborating with engineers, model makers, vendors, marketing personnel, and clients, product designers engage in a comprehensive, iterative process from research and ideation to design, modeling, prototyping, testing, and eventual manufacturing. While typically working in studios or offices, they may also visit workshops or factories where products are produced. Although adhering to regular work hours, they might be required to put in extra time under special circumstances.

Qualities necessary for a career in product design include a passion for art and related disciplines, creative design skills, technical knowledge, an understanding of form, shape, color, and proportion, basic knowledge of materials and production methods, problem-solving abilities, customer orientation, research skills, keen observation, attention to detail, effective communication, presentation skills, teamwork capabilities, multitasking abilities, and the capacity to work under tight deadlines. Staying updated on new developments in product design is also crucial.

To enhance one’s skills, starting a career with a professional qualification, such as a VFX degree course or any long-term diploma/degree program in 3D animation, Product Design, and related courses is recommended. Familiarity with essential software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Revit, 3DS Max, and Maya is essential, and gaining practical exposure through internships and training opportunities adds to employability.

One can get started on a career in product design by enrolling in a recognized training program. In India, there are many VFX training institutions and the VFX course fee is also very affordable in most of the academies. The best academies offer excellent placement support and help candidates find jobs in leading VFX and 3D animation studios.

For job seekers, building a high-quality demo reel that showcases innovative and creative product design skills is crucial. Being interview-ready and presenting a well-written, error-free resume, along with a customized cover letter, increases the chances of recruitment. This is best achieved with the help of top VFX colleges in India which support learners with world-class training, infrastructure, and placements.

In terms of career progression, the pathway typically involves roles such as Trainee, Junior Product Designer, Senior Product Designer, Manager – Product Design, and ultimately, Director – Product Design. The pay scale for product designers in the 2024 – 25 period ranges from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month for freshers and Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 1,00,000+ per month for seniors with over five years of experience.