From Frustrated Architect to Sungboon Editor’s 3D ‘Genie’ - Khoi’s Story
What does it take to build a fulfilling, long-term career as a remote creative? We sat down with Khoi Hoang, a skilled 3D Artist working with Pickdi’s client, Sungboon Editor, to hear his incredible story.
Khoi shares his winding journey from architecture to 3D animation, his initial skepticism about remote work, and how he became an indispensable creative partner for his client, all while living life on his own terms.
Q: Hi Khoi, your background is fascinating. How did you go from studying architecture to becoming a freelance 3D artist?
Khoi - Well, I graduated with a degree in architecture, but I realized that while studying it was fun, the actual job was too tiring and restrictive for me. My journey into 3D started in university. I tried learning 3ds Max like my friends, but I got so frustrated with a tutorial that I quit the software entirely!
By chance, I found another program, Cinema 4D, and started teaching myself. I fell in love with filmmaking and visual effects. After graduating, I worked at a small media company for about 10 months, then quit to work freelance from my hometown. I found I could earn more and have more freedom. I’ve been working freelance ever since, embracing a lifestyle where I start my day at 11 AM and communicate mainly through email.
Q: After years of freelancing, what led you to find this role through Pickdi?
Khoi - After a while, my old freelance work slowed down, and I started looking for a new job. It was difficult because most companies were focused on gaming, which wasn't my area. I searched for months.
Then, I saw a post from Pickdi's CEO in a Facebook group. Just like other candidates, I was a bit skeptical at first. The company seemed unfamiliar, and the application process with a test was different from the typical process in Vietnam. But I decided to give it a shot, completed the test, and got the job. I think many skilled people might hesitate because the process is unusual, but it worked out for me.
Q: You've made a huge impact at Sungboon Editor. Can you tell us about your experience when you first started?
Khoi - When I first joined, I looked at the company’s existing product images and thought they looked a bit old-fashioned. They were using standard photos, which often have flaws, and I wondered, "Why aren't they using 3D renders?"
A few months later, the client asked me to create 3D renders for two test products. They loved the result and thought it looked beautiful. Suddenly, they sent me a massive project: render nearly 60 of their products for a website revamp with a very tight deadline. I had to work over the weekend to get it all done. It was intense, but it felt like my initial thought came true—they saw the potential of 3D and gave me all their products to work on.
Q: It sounds like your role evolved significantly after that. How did your relationship with the client change?
Khoi - It really did. At first, the client didn't fully realize what was possible with 3D. But after the big rendering project, they started asking if I could do more. They’d ask, "Can you composite our 3D products into real-life video footage for PR?" And I’d say, "Yes, I can do that." They were often surprised, like, "Oh, you can do that?!"
I became their creative problem-solver. They would see advertisements from other companies, show them to me, and ask, "Can you make something like this?" And I always could. It felt like I was a genie for them. They didn't know what they needed, but I could show them what was possible and then bring it to life.
Q: It sounds like a great match. What makes this remote role the perfect fit for you, and what are your plans for the future?
Khoi - I really like that the people I work with are easy-going and respectful. They don't impose things on you; they just ask if a deadline is possible. And, of course, I love working from home. I have friends who work in offices, and it can be very tiring with all the drama.
Most importantly, this job is a perfect fit for my abilities. It feels like every skill I've learned over the years is being used here. There’s nothing left unused. Because of that, I plan to stay here for the long term. I’m not someone who needs to keep jumping to higher positions. My needs are simple, and I enjoy my life working from home. This job allows me to do high-quality creative work while maintaining the lifestyle I want.
Thank you, Khoi, for sharing your unique and inspiring journey. Your story is a perfect example of how remote work connects exceptional talent with roles where they can truly shine.
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