Graduate from The Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in 3D Animation with over 9 years of 3D experience with knowledge in Blender, Maya, Houdini, Embergen, and recently Unreal Engine

Find out more about Ben

• 1) Can you tell us about your first experience using a computer?

  My first experience using a computer was when my father introduced me to the concept of computers and how they have continued to get faster and faster since he had his first one. Even though that was nothing compared to how they are today, I remember being hooked immediately. Over time that love only grew stronger, and when I was 13, I saved up enough to purchase the pieces and put one together. Even though it wasn't fast, I knew that that moment would affect my life forever. Now over a decade later, I have built close to 30 machines for clients, family, and friends and use computers every day pushing them to their limits to tell the visual stories that inspired me all those years ago.

• 2) What is the technological evolution that has stuck with you most and what will be, in your eyes, a turning point in this field?

  In my opinion, the largest leap in technological evolution for computer animation is the amount of computing power that the average consumer has available to them in the modern world. Creating visuals on a computer using 3D software has always required a strong computer, and even as little as 10 years ago, the price of that level of hardware was incredibly expensive. That being said, in today's market, that price has dropped exponentially. While the higher-end components are still very pricey, the barrier of entry to start making stunning 3D pieces of art has never been lower.

• 3) Explain your expertise, your interest in it, and, more broadly, its importance in the computer world.

  I have been creating 3D art with a variety of different software for close to a decade, performing tasks like 3D modeling, animation, rendering, lighting, texturing, rigging, simulating, and in some cases directing. I was never able to express myself creatively until I stumbled upon 3D as a medium and have loved every second of being a part of this field. The ability to create anything I can think of and display it is a gift I aim to give every student I teach. Not to mention, in today's society, this art form is seen in everything from cereal commercials to big-budget Marvel films. The opportunities this field has is limitless and I am eager to share my passion and skills with anyone who has an interest to learn.

• 4) Do so-called 'visionaries', such as Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, and Mark Zuckerberg inspire you or do you have other role models?

  In some cases, these "Titans of Industry" do inspire me, especially in their early career. They had an idea that they believed in so passionately they pushed through all the doubt and roadblocks to achieve their dreams. This is something I try to do more every day. While in recent years they may not make choices or stand for things that I would personally agree with, this does not diminish the skills it took for them to build up their ideas in the early stages of their career.

• 5) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  During my time studying animation, I used to become frustrated because there was a problem I couldn't solve. This feeling escalated when I'd look around me and think everyone else was better and didn't struggle as much with the technical challenges. However, after realizing everyone else was just as lost as me, or that no one would judge me for asking for help, I never looked back. I was able to feel more comfortable, learn more than I ever thought, and slowly start to help others who were scared of asking questions like I used to be.

• 6) What would you say to a person feeling uncomfortable in front of a screen who says that "3D modeling is too complicated"?

  I would say that everyone learns differently and you should never let any roadblocks stop you. Often people get frustrated because they come across a topic they are interested in and lose all focus because they aren't being handed the information correctly. I aspire to be a teacher who will take as much critique as possible until you find a way to learn that works for you. I often relate something you are passionate about to certain 3D techniques and topics, building a bridge for you to best understand what is going on during our sessions together.

• 7) What are your other passions, related or non-related to computers?

  I have always loved to create things, digitally or not. I have been involved with woodworking, metalworking and just fixing things since I can remember. Alongside this, I have a deep-rooted love for video games and movies that often inspire my artwork. I am a geek/nerd at heart and am proud of it.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof in 3D modeling?

  I believe that I am a Superprof because whether it is animation, 3D printing, general advice, or deciding where to start your 3D journey, I will always be there to help you along your path. This field is more than just a job for me, it is a passion, and helping people achieve their goals and getting them excited about this type of work is beyond rewarding.