3D Effects specialists design and build physical and digital elements for performance, fashion, film, and immersive experiences. It is a growing area within the fashion and creative industries that blends traditional craft with cutting-edge digital tools. It includes everything from sculpting and mould-making to creating virtual garments, props, and environments using software like AutoCAD, Rhino, and 3D Studio Max. These roles often overlap with art direction and visual effects (VFX), and they play a key part in storytelling and brand presentation across live performance, editorial shoots, and digital platforms.
Practitioners are expected to be both creative and technically skilled, able to conceptualise ideas, produce accurate 3D models, and collaborate with teams across costume, set design, or digital fashion. This field suits those who enjoy hands-on making as well as digital innovation, and offers career paths in theatre, film, fashion tech, gaming, and virtual or augmented reality.
As sustainability and digital transformation become more important in the industry, 3D design skills are increasingly valuable and future focused. Following this path, you can grow into Senior Design, Production, or Department Head positions.
Examples of roles within 3d effects and design:
- Junior/Assistant 3D Effects Designer
- Prop Maker
- 3D Artist
- Character Modeller
- Data Capture Technician
- VFX Supervisor
- VFX Artist
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in 3d effects and design:
- BA (Hons) Creative Direction for Fashion
- BA (Hons) Fashion Imaging and Illustration
- BA (Hons) Fashion Visual Merchandising and Branding
- BA (Hons) Hair, Make-up and Prosthetics for Performance
This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.