3ds Max Series Volume 2
Modeling, Mapping & Texturing a Fighter Ship in 3ds Max

01 Modeling
The modeling section is a comprehensive guide to building every component of the ship from the creation of a template box utilizing orthographic views of the model to use as a guide through to modeling with Editable Poly tools and Subdivision surfaces covering the main hull as well as vents, windows, engine and gun parts. It covers numerous tools and modifiers such as Bevel, Inset, Lathe and Extrude as well as detailing the linking of objects in a hierarchy and the animation of various gun components and also deals with assigning smoothing groups to sub-object selections in order to create paneling across the ship.

02 Mapping
This section deals with various mapping and unwrapping techniques including Planar and Cylindrical mapping and explains the process of mapping the model in sections and then stitching the elements together using the Unwrap UVW modifier. It explains the methods involved in creating an efficient template ready for the Texturing stage and shows how a wireframe guide can be exported into Photoshop in preparation for this. You will learn how to use a guide template to check the integrity of mapping co-ordinates and discover the methods behind unwrapping 3D components into logical 2D images.

03 Texturing
As well as showing how materials are applied in Max using the Material Editor this section deals in depth with a comprehensive overview of Photoshop techniques that show practical tips on texturing 3D models. It covers numerous methods that amongst others detail the creation of Colour / Diffuse maps, Specular maps, Bump and Reflection maps and shows how dirt maps can be used to age a model. Vents, panels and engine parts are all covered and we show how all the various textures can be hand painted from scratch and by using a Blend material and Mask we explain how wear and tear can be used to transform a new looking ship into a battle hardened veteran.

Comprehensive :
The aim of our training DVD's are to provide the artist with the most comprehensive set of lessons available. This is achieved by presenting the training material in the form of full screen step by step 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 fighter Ship 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 non-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

8 1/2 Hours of Full Resolution Movies!
High Res (1024x768) .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.

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:---

Modeling Section: Creating a template box

Editable Poly Tools -
• Edge Tools
• Ring
• Loop
• Connect
• Chamfer

Polygon Tools -
• Bevel
• Inset
• Hinge from Edge

Border Tools
• Bridge

Editable Splines
Assigning Smoothing Groups
Modifiers
• Lathe
• Extrude
• Bend

Linking objects in a hierarchy
Animating gun components

Mapping & Unwrapping Section
Planar and Cylindrical Mapping
Unwrapping a Mesh
Exporting a template

Texturing Section
Using the Material Editor
Applying a material

Learn how to make:
• Color Map
• Specular Map
• Bump Map
• Reflection Map

Using a Blend Material with a Mask

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)