3ds Max Series Volume 1
Modeling, Mapping & Texturing a Creature Head in 3ds Max

01 Modeling

In this section we will be covering many of the Editable Poly tools that Max now supports such as adding subdivisions and detail using Edge Loop/Ring and Connect as well as Bevel and Inset to form features and Cut and Weld to tidy up problem areas. We will also deal with Extrusions along Splines, Instancing geometry, creating eyes using Meshsmooth to increase levels of detail and finally how to apply a material to our model.

02 Mapping

After finishing our mesh we will be learning how to map our model with a texture using the UVW Map tool and techniques such as Cylindrical and Planar mapping. We will cover using temporary bitmaps to check the integrity of our mapping and then learn how to use UVW Unwrap to arrange our mapping co-ordinates and explore tools such as Relax and Mirror to create a wireframe template. Finally we will deal with how to export our template guide into Photoshop to begin painting our Texture.

03 Texturing

In our final section we shall cover the principals of hand painting a texture from scratch in Photoshop where we shall provide an overview of painting a skin base, adding shadows and highlights, blemishes and wrinkles. We will learn how to paint a Colour map to create the overall look and detail across the head, a bump map to enhance and define the texture of the skin and wrinkles across the head and a Specular map to create highlights over the surface. We will look at painting a texture for the eyes and horns and eventually how all these combine in a final render.

Comprehensive :
The aim of our training DVD's is to provide the artist with the most comprehensive set of lessons available. This is achieved by presenting the training material in the form of printable step by step text and images combined with on screen movies and audio instructions.

Beginner to advanced :
Beginners will enjoy the easy to follow complete step by step approach, intermediates will be able to study and learn from the techniques of a professional artist, whilst the more advanced artists will benefit from new tricks and tips.

Content :
All aspects of creating the finished textured head are taught in a way that artists will be able to learn at their own pace. Once these techniques have been learned they can be equally applied to all your future organic modeling and texturing projects.

Format :
To enable the artist maximum usability and understanding we have Used a number of different ways of presenting this training material as follows:

HTML Interface :
Will work in all browsers and on all platforms. Less memory intensive allowing you to work in your 3d package and run the DVD at the same time

Printable :
Step by step text and images written specifically for each project
Full resolution screen images
Can be studied in detail to allow the user to see exactly what is being explained
(Resolution 1024x768 Standard)

Full Resolution Flash Player Movies
.swf files for quick and easy viewing. All movies have a custom control panel and slider bar for easy access to any part of the movie. 1024x724 res. (1024x768 with menu bars removed)

Full Resolution screen shots
Can be studied in detail to allow the user to see exactly what is being explained. 1024x724 res. (1024x768 with menu bars removed)

Extra ongoing support for all customers by the Author
Richard will also be moderating a forum in our www.threedy.com forums which will be accessible to DVD customers only. Here you will be able to post your work in progress, ask questions and get advice from the man himself!

---This Training DVD Covers:---

Section 01 : The Basics
An overview of using the Interface

Section 02 : Modeling
• Creating a Template & Primitive
• Cube into a Head - poly tools
• Extruding a Nose - bevel and inset
• Instancing one Half of the Head
• Cut & Weld - removing Triangles
• Creating Nostrils
• Meshsmooth
• Creating Horns
• Creating Eyes
• Refining & Making whole again
• Applying a Material

Section 03 : Mapping & Unwrapping
• Mapping
• Unwrapping
• Exporting a Template

Section 04 : Texturing
• Painting the Skin
• Shadows and Highlights
• Blemishes
• Bump Map
• Specular Map
• Refining the Diffuse Map
• Painting the Eyes
• Painting the Horns
 

Minimum System Requirements (PC)
DVD Rom Drive : 1GHz Processor : 128Mb RAM : Monitor Resolution 1024x768

Minimum System Requirements (MAC)
DVD Rom Drive : 400Mb G3 Processor : 128Mb RAM : Monitor Resolution 1024x768

Software Requirements:
Macromedia Flash Player
(latest version) can be downloaded free from: www.macromedia.com

3DS Max v5 and above
(will work with earlier versions of Max also with the free Meshtools Plug-in)

Adobe Photoshop v5 and above
(similar 2d paint programs that support layers can also be used to follow the instruction)