One of the easiest and most accessible ways to make money as a 3D modeler is by selling 3D stock models through an online marketplace.
Sell your 3D models online | 6 great sites | Helpful tips
If you’re looking for a freelance job, this can be a great way to build a client base. The nature of the work means you’ll learn a lot about building an online presence, marketing yourself, and using your connections to get exposure.
Even if you're more interested in building a portfolio that will help you apply for studio jobs, successfully selling your 3D inventory shows potential employers that you can deliver high-quality work with high efficiency.
As with anything worthwhile, it takes a lot of time and effort to build a steady stream of income by selling models online. The upside is that once you have built a network, the income is relatively passive.