ABOUT ME

Introduction

Hello, I’m Oscar Darío Valencia Bedoya. In this section, I want to connect with you using straightforward language and share more about myself.

Early Interests

For many years, I’ve been fascinated by three things: hacking, 3D, and video games. Much of my adolescence was centered around video games, but technology and 3D also captivated me. My interest began when I saw editorial pieces about 3D characters made on computers in magazine stands, which deeply impressed me. I remember getting a version of Maya, where I only managed to animate a ball because my computer couldn’t handle much more. This was during my high school years.

Educational Journey

After finishing high school, I started studying Technical Systems and Communication at a technical institute, where I learned what I was passionate about: programming, especially in C++. It was a very enriching period, both academically and socially, as I made great friends. Later, I decided to continue my studies in Systems Engineering at a private institution, but due to financial reasons, I had to switch to public universities. At the National University, I studied Pure Mathematics for two semesters but realized that it wasn’t the direction I wanted to take. I then entered the University of Antioquia to study Systems Engineering, where I learned about C# programming and began my first steps in 3D with Blender.

Early Career

Although it was a challenging process, it helped me grow in the field of video game development. However, due to a family event, I had to suspend my studies and start working. During my free time, I used my knowledge of C# to self-learn video game development and 3D modeling with Blender. This led me to join a video game development company in San Francisco, California. Despite the challenges, I learned a lot and met valuable people.

Professional Growth

With the knowledge gained, I participated in freelance projects, which allowed me to professionalize in video game development. I then decided to enroll in SENA to study a Technological Career in Video Game Development. It was an exciting and enriching period that allowed me to intern at a major company, Postobón. We worked on a pilot project to evaluate drivers and provide them with quality education. Thanks to this experience, I graduated and met amazing people.

Notable Projects

While studying, I also worked on a project for Nicky Jam, developing the StickyJam and DímeloPapi apps. It was a gratifying experience that allowed me to learn new skills, such as In-App Purchases and ad implementation. After this project, I worked at a virtual reality company, where I developed an architectural visualization for selling houses in the United States. This Unity project taught me a lot about VR, and I was able to compare the technology with the VFX1 I had used in my youth. The evolution in technology was remarkable, especially in resolution and latency.

Augmented Reality and Specialization

Later, I joined a company focused on augmented reality (AR). I worked on different AR systems and developed VR experiences, such as a virtual tour for a Papa John’s store and a Batman VR project. Eventually, I decided to specialize in 3D and became a Mocap Technical Artist. I worked with motion capture suits like the Perception Neuron and Rokoko Studio and had the opportunity to work on projects presented to DC, Bridgestone, Firestone, and others.

Future Outlook

So far, my experience in development and creation has been incredible. I’m satisfied with what I’ve achieved, but I know there is still much more to learn and contribute. I hope to continue surprising others, being surprised myself, and meeting amazing people along this journey.