With the release of Toy Story 3, Lego will be releasing some of its Pixar licenses including their own Mini-figs. A friend of mine that works for Lego in Denmark sent me a link to some of the new products that are expected. and the can be seen in these two Flickr, Flickr galleries.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Lego's Pixar Mini-figs revealed
With the release of Toy Story 3, Lego will be releasing some of its Pixar licenses including their own Mini-figs. A friend of mine that works for Lego in Denmark sent me a link to some of the new products that are expected. and the can be seen in these two Flickr, Flickr galleries.
Win a NextEngine desktop Scanner as sold for $2,995
Now's your chance to win a desktop scanner, which you can use to create 3D digital models of real objects. Just fill in our online entry form and you could win one of two we've got to give away.
NextEngine’s 3D Scanner HD makes digitising real-world objects easy. Not only does it capture objects in full colour across every surface point, outputting the result in a range of popular 3D file formats, but it also scans in high definition, generating an ultra-accurate model. With scanning resolutions of up to 400dpi and accuracy as fine as 0.005 inches, it can compete with systems that
cost up to 10 times more.
With multi-laser precision like this, it’s no surprise that NextEngine attracts users from the worlds of film, architecture and manufacturing design, all of whom benefit from its impressively clean data. Not having to edit out irritating pops and spikes in your model can save hours of tedious work.
NextEngine scanners also make your life easier by including a built-in array of lights.
Two lucky readers will win everything they need to create 3D digital models of real objects – in the shape of the compact NextEngine 3D Scanner HD. Fill out our online entry form, and you could be one of them.
Enter today at futurecomps.co.uk/TDW117nextengine
Fine out more about NextEngine by visiting nextengine.com
Winners announced for Siggraph ticket giveaway
Were you one of the lucky winners of a Basic Conference Pass to this year's show, due to be held in New Orleans in August?
Earlier this month, we ran an online prize draw to give away four Basic Conference Passes to this year‘s Siggraph trade show, each worth $175.
The contest has now closed, and the four lucky winners are:
Sean Lamb
Colorado Springs, USA
Jackie Villegas
Cypress, USA
Popescu Octavian
Bucharest, Romania
Miguel Izquierdo
Guadalajara, Mexico
Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to everyone who entered.
Earlier this month, we ran an online prize draw to give away four Basic Conference Passes to this year‘s Siggraph trade show, each worth $175.
The contest has now closed, and the four lucky winners are:
Sean Lamb
Colorado Springs, USA
Jackie Villegas
Cypress, USA
Popescu Octavian
Bucharest, Romania
Miguel Izquierdo
Guadalajara, Mexico
Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to everyone who entered.
Halo Anime
HALO ANIME
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2009/jul09/07-23NorthstarPR.mspx
http://dvd.ign.com/articles/100/1006564p1.html
http://kotaku.com/5320898/details-about-halo-anime
it has been awesome seeing this project grow. fans of both halo and anime will not be disappointed, it will also make new fans out of both.
__________________________________________________ _
— A renowned set of storytellers from some of the world’s leading anime studios in Japan are about to take one of the most iconic franchises in science fiction and video games to a new level. Microsoft Corp., in collaboration with some of the most acclaimed anime creators, today unveiled a new project called “Halo Legends,” which will bring the “Halo” franchise and its sweeping sci-fi saga to an entirely new medium, in the form of several original anime short films.
“Halo Legends,” which will officially debut at a panel presentation today at Comic-Con International in San Diego, is being produced by Microsoft’s 343 Industries and features creative direction from anime pioneer Shinji Aramaki, director of the critically acclaimed “Appleseed” and “Appleseed EX Machina” anime features, and Mamoru Oshii, director of the landmark “Ghost in the Shell” movies, with additional production from Joseph Chou of J-Spec Pictures. The compilation will include a series of short stories that explore different times, themes and characters from the “Halo” universe and will be distributed globally by Warner Home Video, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. company. Influential studios that are part of the project include the creators behind some of the most popular and celebrated anime to come from Japan, such as “The Animatrix,” “Cowboy Bebop,” “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “Ghost in the Shell,” “Dragon Ball” and more.
“The opportunity to work with talents such as Shinji Aramaki, Mamoru Oshii and others from some of the greatest anime studios is a very rare opportunity for Microsoft,” said Frank O’Connor, “Halo” franchise development director and provider of story and creative direction for 343 Industries. “We’ve seen the world through Master Chief’s eyes, and we’ve experienced facets of the universe through a variety of literary prisms, but now we get to watch new tales unfold in really rich, visually dynamic ways. I think anime fans and ‘Halo’ fans alike are in for a real treat.”
Set hundreds of years in the future, the “Halo” series of games and novels chronicle mankind’s struggles against an alien collective known as the Covenant. The Covenant is scouring the universe for relics it believes will lead it to a new life and is destroying civilizations and planets that stand in its way. The most prolific hero from the fiction is a super soldier or Spartan known as Master Chief, who is the main protagonist in the original trilogy of Xbox and Xbox 360 “Halo” titles. In the trilogy, Master Chief discovers that the Covenant is intent on activating a series of mysterious ring worlds known as “Halos,” which would ultimately exterminate life throughout the universe. He becomes mankind’s champion in a race against an unrelenting enemy in its most desperate hour. Through The New York Times best-selling novels, comics and additional Xbox 360 games such as “Halo Wars” and the upcoming “Halo 3: ODST,” the universe has grown and tales of other heroes have emerged.
“‘Halo’ and its characters are a very natural fit for anime,” said Aramaki, creative director for the “Halo Legends” project. “As a fan of the ‘Halo’ universe, it is an honor to work with Microsoft and my very talented peers from other studios to create this collection.”
Studios involved in the “Halo Legends” project include Bones Inc., Casio Entertainment Inc., Production I.G, STUDIO4°C and Toei Animation.
•
Bones. Founded in 1998, Bones has become one of the top animation studios in Japan in less than a decade. The studio is best known for its incredible body of work on mega-hit franchises such as “Cowboy Bebop: The Movie,” “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “Sword of the Stranger” and “Eureka Seven.”
•
Casio Entertainment. Casio Entertainment was founded in 2004 and is renowned for its visual effects work on the movie “Dai Nipponjin” (“Big Man of Japan”), which was officially invited to the 2007 Cannes Film Festival and nominated for Best Visual Effects at the 2008 Asian Film Awards. Casio Entertainment is also known for its computer-generated animation support work on several top Japanese video games.
•
Production I.G. Production I.G has produced a number of acclaimed feature films, original video animation, TV shows and video games. For their storytelling and quality of animation, “Ghost in the Shell,” “Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade” and “Blood: The Last Vampire” have earned critical accolades in Japan and all around the world. “Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence,” directed by Mamoru Oshii in 2004, was the first Japanese animation feature ever to compete for the Palme d’Or at the Festival de Cannes.
•
STUDIO4°C.STUDIO4°C is one of the top animation studios in Japan. Founded by the industry veteran Eiko Tanaka and acclaimed animation artist Koji Morimoto, it has become globally known for its uncanny ability to marry the spirit of high art with mainstream anime aesthetic. STUDIO4°C is known for works including “The Animatrix,” “Tekkonkinkreet” and “Batman: Gotham Knight.”
•
Toei Animation. Toei Animation, established in 1956, is the oldest animation studio in Japan. Toei has produced the largest number of global hit TV anime series for kids, such as “Dragon Ball,” “Digimon,” “Sailor Moon,” “One Piece” and many more.
The complete “Halo Legends” collection will be distributed by Microsoft partner Warner Home Video, which will have more to announce on its release and distribution plans soon.
“As a leading entertainment distributor and a company identified with premier anime content, we’re very pleased to be working with Microsoft on ‘Halo Legends,’” said Amit Desai, vice president, Family, Animation and Partner Brands Marketing, Warner Home Video. “The combination of the talent involved and the ‘Halo’ brand ensure the collection is something consumers are really going to enjoy.”
A preview of select “Halo Legends” episodes will first debut on Xbox LIVE, the largest gaming and entertainment network in the world, starting this fall through a new experience called Halo Waypoint. Launching in fall, Halo Waypoint will be a new destination for “Halo” fans on Xbox LIVE around the world. It will inform fans of the latest “Halo” news and activities, and grant access to content ranging from podcasts, trailers and screenshots, to exclusive video footage you won’t find anywhere else. It also will provide a new challenge for “Halo” gamers with a career system and player rankings tied to both in-game and out-of-game accomplishments related to “Halo.” In addition to the limited, early episode premieres, Halo Waypoint will debut several behind-the-scenes videos that chronicle the making of “Halo Legends.”
More information will be shared about “Halo Legends” today at a panel at Comic-Con International in San Diego. The “Halo” franchise panel will be hosted by O’Connor, moderated by Chou, and will feature guests Aramaki; Mitsuhisa Ishikawa, president of Production I.G; and Tanaka, president of STUDIO4°C. The panel takes place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. PDT in Room 6BCF of the San Diego Convention Center. “Halo Legends” panelists will sign autographs at the Microsoft Xbox 360 booth in Hall G #5225 from 6 to 7 p.m. There also will be a signing at the Warner Bros. booth Hall F #4329 on Friday, July 24, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., with O’Connor and 343 Industries’ managing editor Kevin Grace on hand to answer questions about the project. In addition, the first trailer for “Halo Legends” will debut exclusively tonight on “GameTrailers TV with Geoff Keighley,” airing at 12:30 a.m. ET/PT on Spike TV.
About “Halo”
The “Halo” franchise is an award-winning collection of properties that have grown into a global entertainment phenomenon. Beginning with the original “Halo: Combat Evolved” for Xbox in 2001, the rich fiction of the franchise has since inspired a series of blockbuster Xbox and Xbox 360 video games, The New York Times best-selling novels, comic books, action figures, apparel and more.
Published by Microsoft Game Studios, the “Halo” franchise of games is exclusive to the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system and the games are optimized for the Xbox LIVE online entertainment network. More than 27 million copies of “Halo” games have been sold worldwide, driving more than 2 billion hours of gameplay by people connected to Xbox LIVE. In February 2009, the “Halo” franchise expanded into the real-time strategy genre with “Halo Wars,” which went on to become the best-selling real-time strategy game on any current generation console. On Sept. 22, 2009, Microsoft will release “Halo 3: ODST,” the next chapter for “Halo” and prequel to the events that transpire in “Halo 3.”
About 343 Industries
343 Industries is the publisher of the blockbuster “Halo” series of videogames and, as part of Microsoft Game Studios, oversees the “Halo” franchise, including novels, comics, licensed collectibles, apparel and more. 343 Industries is home to world-class developers working on future “Halo” projects, including “Halo Legends” and Halo Waypoint, as well as partnering with renowned developers such as Bungie LLC and Robot Entertainment to produce “Halo” games for Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE.
About Xbox 360
Xbox 360 is a premier video game and entertainment system. It is home to the best and broadest games as well as the largest on-demand library of standard- and high-definition movies and TV shows connected to the television — with music coming this fall. The digital center of the living room, Xbox 360 blends unbeatable content with the largest online social network of 20 million members on Xbox LIVE to create a limitless entertainment experience that can be shared at home or across the globe. With the addition of currently code-named “Project Natal,” Xbox 360 will forever transform social gaming and entertainment with a whole new way to play — no controller required. More information about “Project Natal” and Xbox 360 can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/projectnatal and http://www.xbox.com.
About Xbox LIVE
Xbox LIVE is the largest gaming and entertainment network and delivers more entertainment than any device connected to the television, including movies, TV and games, with music coming this fall. This fall, Xbox LIVE also will be the only entertainment service to provide instant-on 1080p streaming HD video from Zune video in supported countries. With an active community of more than 20 million people across 26 countries, Xbox LIVE lets you play the best games, enjoy the largest on-demand library and, coming soon, listen to millions of songs — all while connecting to friends anytime. An Xbox LIVE Gold membership provides you with exclusive benefits and premium access to entertainment from the top studios and services, all in one place. More information about Xbox LIVE can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/live.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2009/jul09/07-23NorthstarPR.mspx
http://dvd.ign.com/articles/100/1006564p1.html
http://kotaku.com/5320898/details-about-halo-anime
it has been awesome seeing this project grow. fans of both halo and anime will not be disappointed, it will also make new fans out of both.
__________________________________________________ _
— A renowned set of storytellers from some of the world’s leading anime studios in Japan are about to take one of the most iconic franchises in science fiction and video games to a new level. Microsoft Corp., in collaboration with some of the most acclaimed anime creators, today unveiled a new project called “Halo Legends,” which will bring the “Halo” franchise and its sweeping sci-fi saga to an entirely new medium, in the form of several original anime short films.
“Halo Legends,” which will officially debut at a panel presentation today at Comic-Con International in San Diego, is being produced by Microsoft’s 343 Industries and features creative direction from anime pioneer Shinji Aramaki, director of the critically acclaimed “Appleseed” and “Appleseed EX Machina” anime features, and Mamoru Oshii, director of the landmark “Ghost in the Shell” movies, with additional production from Joseph Chou of J-Spec Pictures. The compilation will include a series of short stories that explore different times, themes and characters from the “Halo” universe and will be distributed globally by Warner Home Video, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. company. Influential studios that are part of the project include the creators behind some of the most popular and celebrated anime to come from Japan, such as “The Animatrix,” “Cowboy Bebop,” “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “Ghost in the Shell,” “Dragon Ball” and more.
“The opportunity to work with talents such as Shinji Aramaki, Mamoru Oshii and others from some of the greatest anime studios is a very rare opportunity for Microsoft,” said Frank O’Connor, “Halo” franchise development director and provider of story and creative direction for 343 Industries. “We’ve seen the world through Master Chief’s eyes, and we’ve experienced facets of the universe through a variety of literary prisms, but now we get to watch new tales unfold in really rich, visually dynamic ways. I think anime fans and ‘Halo’ fans alike are in for a real treat.”
Set hundreds of years in the future, the “Halo” series of games and novels chronicle mankind’s struggles against an alien collective known as the Covenant. The Covenant is scouring the universe for relics it believes will lead it to a new life and is destroying civilizations and planets that stand in its way. The most prolific hero from the fiction is a super soldier or Spartan known as Master Chief, who is the main protagonist in the original trilogy of Xbox and Xbox 360 “Halo” titles. In the trilogy, Master Chief discovers that the Covenant is intent on activating a series of mysterious ring worlds known as “Halos,” which would ultimately exterminate life throughout the universe. He becomes mankind’s champion in a race against an unrelenting enemy in its most desperate hour. Through The New York Times best-selling novels, comics and additional Xbox 360 games such as “Halo Wars” and the upcoming “Halo 3: ODST,” the universe has grown and tales of other heroes have emerged.
“‘Halo’ and its characters are a very natural fit for anime,” said Aramaki, creative director for the “Halo Legends” project. “As a fan of the ‘Halo’ universe, it is an honor to work with Microsoft and my very talented peers from other studios to create this collection.”
Studios involved in the “Halo Legends” project include Bones Inc., Casio Entertainment Inc., Production I.G, STUDIO4°C and Toei Animation.
•
Bones. Founded in 1998, Bones has become one of the top animation studios in Japan in less than a decade. The studio is best known for its incredible body of work on mega-hit franchises such as “Cowboy Bebop: The Movie,” “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “Sword of the Stranger” and “Eureka Seven.”
•
Casio Entertainment. Casio Entertainment was founded in 2004 and is renowned for its visual effects work on the movie “Dai Nipponjin” (“Big Man of Japan”), which was officially invited to the 2007 Cannes Film Festival and nominated for Best Visual Effects at the 2008 Asian Film Awards. Casio Entertainment is also known for its computer-generated animation support work on several top Japanese video games.
•
Production I.G. Production I.G has produced a number of acclaimed feature films, original video animation, TV shows and video games. For their storytelling and quality of animation, “Ghost in the Shell,” “Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade” and “Blood: The Last Vampire” have earned critical accolades in Japan and all around the world. “Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence,” directed by Mamoru Oshii in 2004, was the first Japanese animation feature ever to compete for the Palme d’Or at the Festival de Cannes.
•
STUDIO4°C.STUDIO4°C is one of the top animation studios in Japan. Founded by the industry veteran Eiko Tanaka and acclaimed animation artist Koji Morimoto, it has become globally known for its uncanny ability to marry the spirit of high art with mainstream anime aesthetic. STUDIO4°C is known for works including “The Animatrix,” “Tekkonkinkreet” and “Batman: Gotham Knight.”
•
Toei Animation. Toei Animation, established in 1956, is the oldest animation studio in Japan. Toei has produced the largest number of global hit TV anime series for kids, such as “Dragon Ball,” “Digimon,” “Sailor Moon,” “One Piece” and many more.
The complete “Halo Legends” collection will be distributed by Microsoft partner Warner Home Video, which will have more to announce on its release and distribution plans soon.
“As a leading entertainment distributor and a company identified with premier anime content, we’re very pleased to be working with Microsoft on ‘Halo Legends,’” said Amit Desai, vice president, Family, Animation and Partner Brands Marketing, Warner Home Video. “The combination of the talent involved and the ‘Halo’ brand ensure the collection is something consumers are really going to enjoy.”
A preview of select “Halo Legends” episodes will first debut on Xbox LIVE, the largest gaming and entertainment network in the world, starting this fall through a new experience called Halo Waypoint. Launching in fall, Halo Waypoint will be a new destination for “Halo” fans on Xbox LIVE around the world. It will inform fans of the latest “Halo” news and activities, and grant access to content ranging from podcasts, trailers and screenshots, to exclusive video footage you won’t find anywhere else. It also will provide a new challenge for “Halo” gamers with a career system and player rankings tied to both in-game and out-of-game accomplishments related to “Halo.” In addition to the limited, early episode premieres, Halo Waypoint will debut several behind-the-scenes videos that chronicle the making of “Halo Legends.”
More information will be shared about “Halo Legends” today at a panel at Comic-Con International in San Diego. The “Halo” franchise panel will be hosted by O’Connor, moderated by Chou, and will feature guests Aramaki; Mitsuhisa Ishikawa, president of Production I.G; and Tanaka, president of STUDIO4°C. The panel takes place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. PDT in Room 6BCF of the San Diego Convention Center. “Halo Legends” panelists will sign autographs at the Microsoft Xbox 360 booth in Hall G #5225 from 6 to 7 p.m. There also will be a signing at the Warner Bros. booth Hall F #4329 on Friday, July 24, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., with O’Connor and 343 Industries’ managing editor Kevin Grace on hand to answer questions about the project. In addition, the first trailer for “Halo Legends” will debut exclusively tonight on “GameTrailers TV with Geoff Keighley,” airing at 12:30 a.m. ET/PT on Spike TV.
About “Halo”
The “Halo” franchise is an award-winning collection of properties that have grown into a global entertainment phenomenon. Beginning with the original “Halo: Combat Evolved” for Xbox in 2001, the rich fiction of the franchise has since inspired a series of blockbuster Xbox and Xbox 360 video games, The New York Times best-selling novels, comic books, action figures, apparel and more.
Published by Microsoft Game Studios, the “Halo” franchise of games is exclusive to the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system and the games are optimized for the Xbox LIVE online entertainment network. More than 27 million copies of “Halo” games have been sold worldwide, driving more than 2 billion hours of gameplay by people connected to Xbox LIVE. In February 2009, the “Halo” franchise expanded into the real-time strategy genre with “Halo Wars,” which went on to become the best-selling real-time strategy game on any current generation console. On Sept. 22, 2009, Microsoft will release “Halo 3: ODST,” the next chapter for “Halo” and prequel to the events that transpire in “Halo 3.”
About 343 Industries
343 Industries is the publisher of the blockbuster “Halo” series of videogames and, as part of Microsoft Game Studios, oversees the “Halo” franchise, including novels, comics, licensed collectibles, apparel and more. 343 Industries is home to world-class developers working on future “Halo” projects, including “Halo Legends” and Halo Waypoint, as well as partnering with renowned developers such as Bungie LLC and Robot Entertainment to produce “Halo” games for Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE.
About Xbox 360
Xbox 360 is a premier video game and entertainment system. It is home to the best and broadest games as well as the largest on-demand library of standard- and high-definition movies and TV shows connected to the television — with music coming this fall. The digital center of the living room, Xbox 360 blends unbeatable content with the largest online social network of 20 million members on Xbox LIVE to create a limitless entertainment experience that can be shared at home or across the globe. With the addition of currently code-named “Project Natal,” Xbox 360 will forever transform social gaming and entertainment with a whole new way to play — no controller required. More information about “Project Natal” and Xbox 360 can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/projectnatal and http://www.xbox.com.
About Xbox LIVE
Xbox LIVE is the largest gaming and entertainment network and delivers more entertainment than any device connected to the television, including movies, TV and games, with music coming this fall. This fall, Xbox LIVE also will be the only entertainment service to provide instant-on 1080p streaming HD video from Zune video in supported countries. With an active community of more than 20 million people across 26 countries, Xbox LIVE lets you play the best games, enjoy the largest on-demand library and, coming soon, listen to millions of songs — all while connecting to friends anytime. An Xbox LIVE Gold membership provides you with exclusive benefits and premium access to entertainment from the top studios and services, all in one place. More information about Xbox LIVE can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/live.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
Terragen use today
I thought you may be interested in a current snapshot of what people are using Terragen 2 for these days. The product, which is living in the niche of landscape visualization, is maturing and as more and more people learn how to get the most out of its capabilities, the more good renders are coming round the corner. The community of users is growing pretty fast since the launch of Version 2, which to me is a sign that the output quality is convincing enough to attract a larger number of artists.
As an active member at the Planetside forums, I can see that an increasing number of artists from this community and from Vue communities are giving Terragen 2 a shot. Because of this, I thought that the results and entries of the latest Terragen 2 image contest would be a convenient way for you guys to get a quick overview on what can be achieved through using Terragen 2.
The experience of submitters in that contest ranged from 'newbie' up to 'well expererienced' with using Terragen 2, and I believe there were quite a few very beautiful results from them all.
So in case you are interested, here's the link: http://nwda.webnode.com/nwda-image-contest/
As an active member at the Planetside forums, I can see that an increasing number of artists from this community and from Vue communities are giving Terragen 2 a shot. Because of this, I thought that the results and entries of the latest Terragen 2 image contest would be a convenient way for you guys to get a quick overview on what can be achieved through using Terragen 2.
The experience of submitters in that contest ranged from 'newbie' up to 'well expererienced' with using Terragen 2, and I believe there were quite a few very beautiful results from them all.
So in case you are interested, here's the link: http://nwda.webnode.com/nwda-image-contest/
Spaceclaim adds multitouch modeling.GFX apps getting behind?
Spaceclaim a CAD application presented multitouch modeling that will be added to that application latter this year. Anything like this for our 3D apps?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdkx...player_embedded
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdkx...player_embedded
short film production blog
Just to drop you a note and tell you that we have exciting new posts about our upcoming short film production on our blog www.lemonade3d.com/blog
For those who dont know, we are blogging the production of our upcoming short animated film. The idea is to have a blog that follows the whole short film production form the initial scrip to the finished film.
If you find this interesting drop by and check it out!
p.s.here is a link to our last short film www.shewhomeasures.com
veljko
www.lemonade3d.com
For those who dont know, we are blogging the production of our upcoming short animated film. The idea is to have a blog that follows the whole short film production form the initial scrip to the finished film.
If you find this interesting drop by and check it out!
p.s.here is a link to our last short film www.shewhomeasures.com
veljko
www.lemonade3d.com
Toy Story Collection Up for Pre-Order
The most wanted toy in the mid-90’s was arguably a brand new, state-of-the-art Buzz Lightyear.I remember when I was younger one of my favorite toys was Buzz, no surprise, he’s extremely cool as a character and a "plaything." Now I can’t wait to see how the kids of this generation welcome the characters from Andy’s room (that premiered almost 15 years ago) into their homes with this new incarnation.
That day will finally come this August with the release of a brand new set of electronics and figures dubbed the Toy Story Collection. The Disney Store has them for pre-order including the brand new Buzz Lightyear 12’‘ Action Figure, Sheriff Woody 15’‘ Action Figure, a Rex 13’‘ Action Figure and the RC Car, (you may remember some of these previewed in an earlier post) both with realistic and movie accurate remote controlled movements. The most special part of these toys is that, not only are they high tech with voice commands and such, but they are made from the original film data to be as true to the source as possible and come with a certificate of authenticity "signed" by John Lasseter. Click on the links to see a full price and feature list.
On the lower tech side are the Bucket O Soldiers featuring Sarge & crew and the Little Green Men 3-Pack. Not part of the Toy Story Collection but still new to the marketplace is iDance Buzz Lightyear. You guessed it, he dances to your MP3 player’s tunes. For those of you wondering where Thinkway Toy‘s Toy Story line has gone, this is it. Each one was made by the company that believed in Pixar’s first movie which apparently wasn’t going to sell any toys even though it was about toys. They’re all on the expensive side, but they sure look fun for all ages come late August.
You can pre-order these toys now at Disney Store’s website.
Lightbulb Wacom Cintiq demo at San Diego Comic Con Forum: CG News Posted By: madpencil Post Time: 07-22-2009 at 09:32 PM Text: Hey guys, just wanted
Hey guys, just wanted to let know if you're interested that I will be doing a Cintiq demo at the Arcana comics booth (2415) at San diego comic con. I'll be doing some character illustrations, inking a penciled page in Adobe Illustrator and other fun stuff. Anyhow if you're coming to the show, stop by and check it out. I'll be there from 1pm to 4pm Saturday and Sunday. Check out the links below to get an idea of what I'll be doing. C ya there!.
-Anwar
links:
http://madpencil.blogspot.com/
Youtube videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w80h7Qh2vYY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6_OixYg8UA
Wacom Case study:
http://www.wacom.com/casestudies/skechers.php
-Anwar
links:
http://madpencil.blogspot.com/
Youtube videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w80h7Qh2vYY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6_OixYg8UA
Wacom Case study:
http://www.wacom.com/casestudies/skechers.php
Poser World releases new clothes texturing tutorial
Need to create your own custom threads? Poser World's latest training video promises to answer your technical queries
One of the most common questions we get asked about Poser is, ‘How do I create my own skin textures for the characters?‘ The other is, ‘How do I create my own clothing?‘
While the mysteries of skin texturing will have to wait for another time, Poser World‘s latest training release does at least promise to answer the second question: the new video provides a step-by-step guide to creating a tunic for the Michael 3 figure. More details below.
PRESS RELEASE
Poser 3D Clothes Texturing Tutorial Video DVD
The main problem with creating clothing textures for Poser is that the people that know how to do so can‘t or won‘t share the process with others.
We believe that anyone who wants to create 3D clothing and other types of textures should have access to this information. It is SO easy – and we show you how!
All it takes is a little time and our clothes-texturing video. With this video you will soon be creating professional-quality clothing in no time at all.
The Poser World 3D Clothes Texturing Video DVD is a 31-minute tutorial using Photoshop to create a detailed clothing texture. Any image-editing program can be used to create clothing textures.
In it, Allen Harkleroad shares his secrets, tips and tricks for building a clothing texture. The video tutorial series provides a complete step-by-step walkthrough for creating the 15th Century Tunic for Michael 3 from start to finish.
Chapters
1. Templates and UVmapper
2. Scaling and Seamless Textures
3. Applying Extras
4. Applying Details
5. Previewing and Rendering in Poser
It is recommended that the video tutorials be viewed on a television using a DVD player. However, the tutorials can be viewed on any computer capable of showing DVD movies.
The DVD is region free and we offer free shipping worldwide.
Price $39.00
Read more about the DVD
One of the most common questions we get asked about Poser is, ‘How do I create my own skin textures for the characters?‘ The other is, ‘How do I create my own clothing?‘
While the mysteries of skin texturing will have to wait for another time, Poser World‘s latest training release does at least promise to answer the second question: the new video provides a step-by-step guide to creating a tunic for the Michael 3 figure. More details below.
PRESS RELEASE
Poser 3D Clothes Texturing Tutorial Video DVD
The main problem with creating clothing textures for Poser is that the people that know how to do so can‘t or won‘t share the process with others.
We believe that anyone who wants to create 3D clothing and other types of textures should have access to this information. It is SO easy – and we show you how!
All it takes is a little time and our clothes-texturing video. With this video you will soon be creating professional-quality clothing in no time at all.
The Poser World 3D Clothes Texturing Video DVD is a 31-minute tutorial using Photoshop to create a detailed clothing texture. Any image-editing program can be used to create clothing textures.
In it, Allen Harkleroad shares his secrets, tips and tricks for building a clothing texture. The video tutorial series provides a complete step-by-step walkthrough for creating the 15th Century Tunic for Michael 3 from start to finish.
Chapters
1. Templates and UVmapper
2. Scaling and Seamless Textures
3. Applying Extras
4. Applying Details
5. Previewing and Rendering in Poser
It is recommended that the video tutorials be viewed on a television using a DVD player. However, the tutorials can be viewed on any computer capable of showing DVD movies.
The DVD is region free and we offer free shipping worldwide.
Price $39.00
Read more about the DVD
TD-College Summer Specials!!
BURBANK, CALIFORNIA – (July 19th 2009): TD-College the only online school that offers CG education with REAL production value is proud to announce to the general public and admitted students a pair of fantastic deals for those looking to improve their skills over the summer.
Just in time for summer!! and for a limited time only, future and current students can take advantage of these special prices. In an effort to bring affordable TD education to people from all over the world, TDC will offer all single TDC courses for $1000 USD, which represents a $200 USD immediate savings. For those interested in more education and more bang for your buck, TDC is offering 2 courses for $1750 USD, a $650 USD savings, when the courses are paid in a single payment in advance of the courses.
"Over the last year we have had the pleasure to teach many talented upcoming TDs. Several of which have returned for a second course and even referred TDC courses to other students." commented Rudy Cortes, Founder and C.E.O of TD-College. "We believe that word of mouth is the best form of advertising, so our plan is to invest some of our advertising budget in this summer special."
"We know that once people get to take our courses, they will come back for more and bring some friends along with them. That's why we have decided to focus on getting the word out there that we are finally here, solid, growing and sharing decades worth of TD experience with those willing to learn" mentioned TDC's General Course Director, Arthur Shek.
Kevin Mannens, Effects Course Director of TDC explained "We are a SCHOOL, are we not? As such we see a lot more value in teaching people than spending all of our advertising funds on websites that might or might not refer people to us. We are glad to announce this special just in time for Siggraph." This offer is available immediately and will extend until the end of the summer. For more details visit our website.
About TD-College
TD College was founded by 3 experienced professional Technical Directors. Rudy Cortes, Sr. Cinematics Rendering TD at Blizzard Entertainment Cinematics in Irvine, CA. Kevin Mannens, an effects TD at Sony Pictures Imageworks and Arthur Shek, Sr. Software Engineer at Walt Disney Animation Studios. TD-College's goal is to provide the best training for technical directors to a world wide market by providing an exclusive one on one mentor system as well as a collaborative community where TD'ism can flourish.
Just in time for summer!! and for a limited time only, future and current students can take advantage of these special prices. In an effort to bring affordable TD education to people from all over the world, TDC will offer all single TDC courses for $1000 USD, which represents a $200 USD immediate savings. For those interested in more education and more bang for your buck, TDC is offering 2 courses for $1750 USD, a $650 USD savings, when the courses are paid in a single payment in advance of the courses.
"Over the last year we have had the pleasure to teach many talented upcoming TDs. Several of which have returned for a second course and even referred TDC courses to other students." commented Rudy Cortes, Founder and C.E.O of TD-College. "We believe that word of mouth is the best form of advertising, so our plan is to invest some of our advertising budget in this summer special."
"We know that once people get to take our courses, they will come back for more and bring some friends along with them. That's why we have decided to focus on getting the word out there that we are finally here, solid, growing and sharing decades worth of TD experience with those willing to learn" mentioned TDC's General Course Director, Arthur Shek.
Kevin Mannens, Effects Course Director of TDC explained "We are a SCHOOL, are we not? As such we see a lot more value in teaching people than spending all of our advertising funds on websites that might or might not refer people to us. We are glad to announce this special just in time for Siggraph." This offer is available immediately and will extend until the end of the summer. For more details visit our website.
About TD-College
TD College was founded by 3 experienced professional Technical Directors. Rudy Cortes, Sr. Cinematics Rendering TD at Blizzard Entertainment Cinematics in Irvine, CA. Kevin Mannens, an effects TD at Sony Pictures Imageworks and Arthur Shek, Sr. Software Engineer at Walt Disney Animation Studios. TD-College's goal is to provide the best training for technical directors to a world wide market by providing an exclusive one on one mentor system as well as a collaborative community where TD'ism can flourish.
MachStudio Pro adds exporter plug-ins for Rhino 4 and SketchUp Pro
The new MachStudio Pro exporter for Rhino and SketchUp are free tools to easily export 3D assets from Rhino 4 and SketchUp Pro 7 into MachStudio native GXB formats. These models can then be imported into MachStudio Pro where an artist can create and manipulate lights, materials, and HDR cameras in a real-time, non-linear workflow environment to achieve film quality results.
The Free exporter plug-ins (currently for Max, Maya, Rhino and SketchUp) can be downloaded from the StudioGPU website on the support >> downloads page
About MachStudio Pro
Powered by a real-time rendering engine that takes advantage of the horsepower of off-the-shelf GPUs, MachStudio Pro software fits into the creative pipeline after all 3D models are produced and provides lighting, cameras, materials, compositing and finishing capabilities. Render times can be dramatically reduced from hours to minutes and minutes to seconds or sub-seconds. Processes which normally would be separated into specialized tasks in production, or off-loaded to render farms,*are instead possible in a concise, creative workflow.
The Free exporter plug-ins (currently for Max, Maya, Rhino and SketchUp) can be downloaded from the StudioGPU website on the support >> downloads page
About MachStudio Pro
Powered by a real-time rendering engine that takes advantage of the horsepower of off-the-shelf GPUs, MachStudio Pro software fits into the creative pipeline after all 3D models are produced and provides lighting, cameras, materials, compositing and finishing capabilities. Render times can be dramatically reduced from hours to minutes and minutes to seconds or sub-seconds. Processes which normally would be separated into specialized tasks in production, or off-loaded to render farms,*are instead possible in a concise, creative workflow.
T-Gen 2 for XSI released !
After months of hard work I am finaly releasing new version of T-Gen. I believe it's huge improvement over the old version. This update is FREE for all existing users.
New features :
While build from scratch user interface and workflow stays mostly the same so migrating shouldn't be problem for anyone. To transfer plants from T-Gen into T-Gen 2 just save plant preset and then load it into T-Gen 2 using T-Gen Manager.
For limited time only you can now buy T-Gen only for 79 EUR !!! .
To get more information about T-Gen, documentation and downloads go to : www.simartom.com
I would like to express my thanks to all betatesters for your great feedback and Milan Vasek for provided artwork.
Note: There is a bug in XSI 7.5 that prevent you from using more than 1 force. In older versions you can connect up to 100 forces.
New features :
- New core - On average T-Gen 2 is 3x-4x faster over the old version. While most of the UI stays the same, T-Gen 2 is build from scratch to properly support multiple CPU cores. Check video below to see new core in action: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnEhl2OBr_c
- Dynamics - you can now use XSI forces to simulate tree and plant dynamics. Forces in action : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYqRK0Us-fk
- Various new features and UI improvements
- New distribution options - new distribution types are random and point distribution. By using point distribution you can define exact positions of branches or leaves. See demonstration below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCdUE_Jl1LU - New noise types - you can now use perlin noise to get more natural look of branches.
- T-Gen Manager - tool for managing your trees and plants. You can save and load presets, apply forces and randomize the look of plants. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0MBzAhTYgA
- Powerfull free version
While build from scratch user interface and workflow stays mostly the same so migrating shouldn't be problem for anyone. To transfer plants from T-Gen into T-Gen 2 just save plant preset and then load it into T-Gen 2 using T-Gen Manager.
For limited time only you can now buy T-Gen only for 79 EUR !!! .
To get more information about T-Gen, documentation and downloads go to : www.simartom.com
I would like to express my thanks to all betatesters for your great feedback and Milan Vasek for provided artwork.
Note: There is a bug in XSI 7.5 that prevent you from using more than 1 force. In older versions you can connect up to 100 forces.
Sam Raimi to direct WarCraft Movie!
"Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. and Legendary Pictures announced today that Sam Raimi has signed on to direct the eagerly-anticipated major motion picture based on Blizzard Entertainment®’s award-winning Warcraft® universe. Raimi has, in the course of his career, clearly demonstrated a genius for developing and adapting existing fictional universes for mainstream audiences while staying true to the spirit of the original content.
Raimi directed the Spider-Man trilogy, which has broken box-office records around the world and garnered five Academy Award® nominations. Known for his imaginative filmmaking style, richly drawn characters and offbeat humor, Raimi wrote and directed the cult classic, The Evil Dead and produced 30 Days Of Night. He most recently wrote and directed the supernatural thriller, Drag Me To Hell.
"At its core, Warcraft is a fantastic, action-packed story," said Raimi. "I am thrilled to work with such a dynamite production team to bring this project to the big screen.""
the rest of the text can be read here: http://www.blizzard.com/us/press/090721.html
I'm really glad they've found such a great director for WarCraft movie(I really didn't like spider-man 3, but the other 2 were pretty good...and army of darkness as well :P). Guess we'll have a lot of Good VFX and hopefully as good story with memorable characters(Chris Metzen is writing the script, so i don't know how that can go wrong).
Its really good to see their taking some game franchises seriously (WarCraft Sam, Bioshock Gore Verbinski) but the best treat in my opinion is Battle Angel Alitia with Cameron
Raimi directed the Spider-Man trilogy, which has broken box-office records around the world and garnered five Academy Award® nominations. Known for his imaginative filmmaking style, richly drawn characters and offbeat humor, Raimi wrote and directed the cult classic, The Evil Dead and produced 30 Days Of Night. He most recently wrote and directed the supernatural thriller, Drag Me To Hell.
"At its core, Warcraft is a fantastic, action-packed story," said Raimi. "I am thrilled to work with such a dynamite production team to bring this project to the big screen.""
the rest of the text can be read here: http://www.blizzard.com/us/press/090721.html
I'm really glad they've found such a great director for WarCraft movie(I really didn't like spider-man 3, but the other 2 were pretty good...and army of darkness as well :P). Guess we'll have a lot of Good VFX and hopefully as good story with memorable characters(Chris Metzen is writing the script, so i don't know how that can go wrong).
Its really good to see their taking some game franchises seriously (WarCraft Sam, Bioshock Gore Verbinski) but the best treat in my opinion is Battle Angel Alitia with Cameron
Download issue 120's Short Cuts animation
Inspired by Half-Life 2 and created by a 23-year-old physics student, Tim Smit's What's In The Box? blurs the lines between fan film and viral marketing stunt. Watch the movie here
By day, Tim Smit studies nanotechnology. By night, he creates movies. His latest, the Half-Life 2-referencing What‘s In The Box? blurs the line between fan project and viral promotion, having gained over 1.6 million views on YouTube.
The nine-minute short, created by Smit as a VFX test, is told entirely from first-person perspective, as the amnesiac protagonist wakes, then stumbles out into a post-apocalyptic wasteland, armed only with the mysterious black box of the title.
Thanks to its slick production and moody atmosphere, What‘s In The Box? has already landed Smit an interview on prime-time TV, and seen Hollywood beating a path to his door. So what is in the box? Ah, you‘ll just have to watch the movie…
Read more about the making of ‘What‘s In the Box‘ in issue 120 of 3D World.
Download What's In the Box (60MB)
Right-click on the link and select Save Target As to download the movie
By day, Tim Smit studies nanotechnology. By night, he creates movies. His latest, the Half-Life 2-referencing What‘s In The Box? blurs the line between fan project and viral promotion, having gained over 1.6 million views on YouTube.
The nine-minute short, created by Smit as a VFX test, is told entirely from first-person perspective, as the amnesiac protagonist wakes, then stumbles out into a post-apocalyptic wasteland, armed only with the mysterious black box of the title.
Thanks to its slick production and moody atmosphere, What‘s In The Box? has already landed Smit an interview on prime-time TV, and seen Hollywood beating a path to his door. So what is in the box? Ah, you‘ll just have to watch the movie…
Read more about the making of ‘What‘s In the Box‘ in issue 120 of 3D World.
Download What's In the Box (60MB)
Right-click on the link and select Save Target As to download the movie
Up Collectibles Displayed at Tokyo Toy Show 2009
"Finally!" is all I can say. After JUN Planning went bankrupt it looked as if Up action figures weren’t happening.Now another toy company in Asia, Hot Toys, is stepping up with a set of high quality collectibles based on Pixar’s 10th film. It’s funny how it has to get to the point where Pete Docter’s movie makes $280 million before any toy company (that doesn’t disappear) is brave enough to make a move on these obviously charming characters. I wonder how other toy companies feel about passing up this valuable license?
Anyways, the Hong Kong based manufacturer had a set of toys on display at this year’s Tokyo Toy Show. You can check those pictures out over at this blog, they’re all the way at the bottom. In my opinion, the Carl figure is the most impressive and finely detailed, I might even buy it. Expect this merchandise to be on the expensive side since they are designer toys and will most likely not be available at your local retailer. Speaking of availability, I’m not so sure when that will be.
What is the Pixar Luxo Lamp Collection?
Truthfully, I don’t know.UK sites have been setting up pre-orders for a "Pixar Luxo Lamp Collection" which seems to be some sort of Blu-ray compilation. Is it a pack of movies in some special Luxo themed packaging? Maybe it’s and updated shorts collection. Your guess is as good as mine.
Check out the pre-orders found at HMV, Amazon UK and BVA. All it seems to say is that it’ll be released on November 2nd and contains one disc. Funnily enough that one disc is £122. No word if it’ll reach US shores. Developing…
CGCookie and Mavenseed tutoring resource
Hi to everyone, I'd like to talk a little about two useful resource on the web. I have the pleasure to be part of it thank to Wes Burke the founder behind these projects.
CGCOOKIE (Please check it, we are working on a lot of new interesting video tutorial)
Cg Cookie is an online education resource for cg artists working with various popular applications. Currently, we are offering education on 3D Studio Max, Blender, Maya, ZBrush, and Cheetah3D. Our educational materials are presented either in a written text format, or streaming video..... (www.cgcookie.com)
MAVENSEED
Mavenseed is an CG education website that offers private one on one training from an expert in the respective field.The benefit of private one on one tutoring is that you are able to address your personal concerns, questions and goals immediately. There is no running through topics you already know in software manuals, or course requirements. Our instructors work with your schedule as best they can and are available to you for the requested time. (www.mavenseed.com)
For every kind of question please contact Wes Burke or me...
Thanks
CGCOOKIE (Please check it, we are working on a lot of new interesting video tutorial)
Cg Cookie is an online education resource for cg artists working with various popular applications. Currently, we are offering education on 3D Studio Max, Blender, Maya, ZBrush, and Cheetah3D. Our educational materials are presented either in a written text format, or streaming video..... (www.cgcookie.com)
MAVENSEED
Mavenseed is an CG education website that offers private one on one training from an expert in the respective field.The benefit of private one on one tutoring is that you are able to address your personal concerns, questions and goals immediately. There is no running through topics you already know in software manuals, or course requirements. Our instructors work with your schedule as best they can and are available to you for the requested time. (www.mavenseed.com)
For every kind of question please contact Wes Burke or me...
Thanks
Ballistic Publishing Video Bundle
Hello everyone,
For the next 2 weeks, Ballistic Publishing is offering a free video tutorial bundle with any purchase. Simply purchase any product from Ballistic publishing and you'll receive a link to download the bundle including.
"Red Robin" - By Linda Bergkvist - 15 minutes - EXPOS? 6
"Decline of Babel Myth" - By Frederick St. Arnaud 15 minutes - Matte Painting 2
"Touch of Gold" - By Bente Schlick - 30 minutes - EXPOS? 7
Hurry this offer ends on the 31st July.
Digital Art TV channel
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Digital Art TV channel Forum: CG News
Posted By: sanbase
Post Time: 07-21-2009 at 10:52 PM
Text:
San Base Studio is an international contemporary art and design studio launches Dynamic Art TV for the Internet, TV, Mobile and other Multi-media Devices.
San Base Studio is set to revolutionize the world of mass media and Art, making the beauty and magic of dynamic digital art accessible for all to enjoy in the home, office or commercial space. We is producing original digital works for broadcast over the internet, television, mobile and other multi-media devices. This is the first time dynamic digital art has been produced for broadcast to a wide international audience and provides dynamic artists an ideal platform to promote their work.
San Base recently, launched Dynamic Art TV on TiVo in the U.S with a potential reach of over 500K homes. This unique arrangement will see San Base Studio produce 53, fifteen minute episodes for download on TiVo PVR boxes. Viewers will be able to download a blend of continuously evolving abstract, surreal and realistic images and ambient soundscapes for therapeutic enjoyment and entertainment. In the coming months San Base Studio will be searching the world for other broadcast partners and deals, including public and private IPTV networks. Mobile applications for the Iphone and Blackberry are in the works. DVD’s and Bluray discs are available for purchase on the website at http://www.sanbasestudio.com/dvd.htm
Watch for the launch of the launch of the Dynamic Art TV website at the end of August.
http://www3.tivo.com/tivo-tco/cds/i...tivo:mx.8672961
Toy Story & Toy Story 2 in 3D Double Feature Trailer Attached to G-ForceToy Story & Toy Story 2 in 3D Double Feature Trailer Attached to G-Force
The moment many Pixar fans have been waiting for is almost here, the release of Toy Story & Toy Story 2 in 3D Double Feature‘s trailer!The clip will be attached in 3D exclusively to G-Force, the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures/Jerry Bruckheimer production featuring crime fighting guinea pigs. A Slash Film reader was lucky enough to see a screening of the trailer early! Here’s their description but beware, if you don’t want to be spoiled skip to the next paragraph:
"Toy Story looks just like the Toy Story 3 trailer we’ve seen. It starts with Woody looking for Buzz; who pops up in the foreground (in the audience) with a pair of 3D glasses. The 2 of them are joined by Jessie and throw a few gimmicks out (Jessie’s hands reach out to the audience.) Rex shows up, but is in 2D at first and later corrects to 3D. Release date is given and the 2 week engagement tagline. Also mentions 2 films for the price of one. [Theaters are] expecting to run them at the normal 3D pricing [surcharge]."
Sounds pretty good to me, although I’m not to keen on watching G-Force! You can check out Disney’s latest with brand new trailers for Toy Story & Toy Story 2 in 3D Double Feature and Alice in Wonderland starting July 24th all in 3D. Of course we’ll post it here as soon as it’s online but if you don’t go to the theatre you’ll miss the 3D effects.
10 tips for freelance visualisation success
In issue 120, CGarchitect.com founder Jeff Mottle reviews the key findings of his 2009 Architectural Vizualisation Industry survey.
To accompany his article, we asked Jeff to provide his tips for success as a freelance visualisation professional.
No one likes to think that their job is on the line – and, in fact, the results of the latest Architectural Vizualisation Industry survey show that the job market is not as bad as many fear.
Only a quarter of studios report feeling the effects of the recession, and the majority expect to hire again in the next two years.
But it never hurts to be prepared. Whether you want peace of mind should your studio need to downside, or actively explore the opportunities that freelance life can bring, the following tips should help you to succeed.
1. Build a fighting fund
First and foremost, start saving! Normally, you should have enough money in your bank account to keep you afloat for two to three months, but if you can, I would suggest six months or more.
2. Formulate a plan
With your financial situation squared away, focus on what you will do when the day comes. Will you strike it out on your own or start to look for work from existing studios?
3. Do your research
Make sure your CV and your portfolio are up to date. Next, start putting together lists of companies you will approach, and find out what types of skills they are looking for.
4. Invest in training
If your skill set is lacking, use any free time you have to get yourself up to speed and look for training that will help you hone those skills.
5. Don't forget traditional skills
This year’s survey indicated that an architectural education, a fine arts education and innate artistic ability were the three most sought-after qualifications. If you don‘t have these, consider a formal qualification.
6. Network actively
Most companies hire by word-of-mouth referrals, so get out there and start marketing yourself. Even if you are not currently in the market, the more people who know you, the better off you will be.
7. Enter contests
Another very useful method to get yourself seen is to enter industry competitions and post your work in image galleries. Thirty one percent of companies indicated they hired based on work they saw there.
8. Develop a business plan
If you want to start your own company, take time now to sort out all of the administrative details, like business licenses, taxes and accounting. If you have to live off savings, you need to spend this time looking for work, rather than sorting out logistics.
9. Build a personal portfolio
If you have been working for someone else, you are unlikely to be able to use that work to market your own company. Start developing a portfolio showcasing several different types of projects and styles.
10. Never steal!
Lastly, even if you are capable of producing the same quality of work, never ‘borrow‘ someone else work and showcase it as your own. It’s done too often in our industry, and will only get you into trouble.
About the author
Jeff Mottle is the president and founder of CGarchitect Digital Media Corporation, the leading online magazine for architectural visualization professionals. He was previously North American production director for Smoothe and business development manager for VisMasters
Visit CGarchitect.com
To accompany his article, we asked Jeff to provide his tips for success as a freelance visualisation professional.
No one likes to think that their job is on the line – and, in fact, the results of the latest Architectural Vizualisation Industry survey show that the job market is not as bad as many fear.
Only a quarter of studios report feeling the effects of the recession, and the majority expect to hire again in the next two years.
But it never hurts to be prepared. Whether you want peace of mind should your studio need to downside, or actively explore the opportunities that freelance life can bring, the following tips should help you to succeed.
1. Build a fighting fund
First and foremost, start saving! Normally, you should have enough money in your bank account to keep you afloat for two to three months, but if you can, I would suggest six months or more.
2. Formulate a plan
With your financial situation squared away, focus on what you will do when the day comes. Will you strike it out on your own or start to look for work from existing studios?
3. Do your research
Make sure your CV and your portfolio are up to date. Next, start putting together lists of companies you will approach, and find out what types of skills they are looking for.
4. Invest in training
If your skill set is lacking, use any free time you have to get yourself up to speed and look for training that will help you hone those skills.
5. Don't forget traditional skills
This year’s survey indicated that an architectural education, a fine arts education and innate artistic ability were the three most sought-after qualifications. If you don‘t have these, consider a formal qualification.
6. Network actively
Most companies hire by word-of-mouth referrals, so get out there and start marketing yourself. Even if you are not currently in the market, the more people who know you, the better off you will be.
7. Enter contests
Another very useful method to get yourself seen is to enter industry competitions and post your work in image galleries. Thirty one percent of companies indicated they hired based on work they saw there.
8. Develop a business plan
If you want to start your own company, take time now to sort out all of the administrative details, like business licenses, taxes and accounting. If you have to live off savings, you need to spend this time looking for work, rather than sorting out logistics.
9. Build a personal portfolio
If you have been working for someone else, you are unlikely to be able to use that work to market your own company. Start developing a portfolio showcasing several different types of projects and styles.
10. Never steal!
Lastly, even if you are capable of producing the same quality of work, never ‘borrow‘ someone else work and showcase it as your own. It’s done too often in our industry, and will only get you into trouble.
About the author
Jeff Mottle is the president and founder of CGarchitect Digital Media Corporation, the leading online magazine for architectural visualization professionals. He was previously North American production director for Smoothe and business development manager for VisMasters
Visit CGarchitect.com
Current Events at Pixar Animation Studios
First off I just have to apologize about the lack of posts lately, I’ve been away from a computer and recently got very sick.Anyhow, working at Pixar is described as a fun and rewarding yet tough job. Events like the ones following give Pixarians a little time to cool off from their daily duties. In this post I’ll be profiling recent events held by the greatest animation’s studio’s amazing staff.
1st Annual Pixarpalooza: Pixar’s first annual employee only concert, Pixarpalooza (presumably named after Lollapalooza) was a huge success! The music festival, held on June 5th of this year, featured Pixarian acts such as TKO, The Ron Zorman Project, Howdy Valentine, X-Position, Clowncar and more. The event also included a "surprise" appearance by Michael Frederickson and Jay-D of P. Driven performing their iconic Pile Driver Jam. Check out pictures from the festivities here.
9th Annual Pixar Motorama: Is it a surprise that at Pixar there are lots of car fans including John Lasseter? The 9th Annual Pixar Motorama was held last Friday featuring some really amazing motorized vehicle designs. Jay Ward, famous for his art direction on Cars organizes the event each year with his fellow car obsessed colleagues. Check out pictures of the the picnic/car show here, here and here.
(via our Friend at The Pixar Touch Blog)
Toy Story Fan Art Contest: I’m going to apologize for not posting this incredibly funny contest on the blog earlier. Lee Unkrich, the director of Toy Story 3, held a contest on Twitter to see who could make the ugliest Toy Story fan art for a TS3 baseball cap. And the winner is this horrible attempt at drawing Woody on MS Paint! Remember to follow Upcoming Pixar on Twitter too so as to not miss opportunities like this!
V-Ray for Maya Countdown Begins!
The official release of V-Ray for Maya is almost here! The V-Ray Rendering System offers the fastest photo-realistic rendering technology in the world. Coupled with the Maya platform, V-Ray for Maya provides an unprecedented amount of power for your advanced rendering needs.
Click here for the countdown:
Buy V-Ray for Maya - The official release of V-Ray for Maya is almost here!
eyeon Software Announces New Software Financing Option
eyeon Software Announces New Software Financing Option Helping Artists and Facilities Get Back To Business
Toronto: July 9, 2009... eyeon Software Inc. has announced a new financing option for its entire range of software products. For a limited time, users can purchase licences for eyeon applications with a $995 USD down payment and negotiate flexible payment plans as required. The offer includes Fusion™ 6.0 – the company’s award winning node-based compositing application; Generation® 1.1 – eyeon’s workflow management and review system; Rotation™ – the company’s rotoscoping, keying and retouching application, as well as eyeon’s Vision® suite of broadcast design tools.
A high demand for more advanced software tools, coupled with a renewing economy, has created the need for facilities and artists to update their infrastructures as they bid on new projects.
"With Fusion 6 out the door and many facilities opting for SWAT training, we have experienced a significant increase in Fusion inquiries and consequent sales," said Joanne Dicaire, Director of Sales and Marketing at eyeon. "We are offering our customers and growing client base the means to get back into production as quickly as possible by offsetting their upfront costs."
Fusion 6.0
This past June, eyeon launched Fusion 6.0 – the newest version of the company’s flagship compositing application. Optimized for the latest processor and GPU technologies, Fusion 6 offers significantly improved performance, together with a host of new features and capabilities, including full support for stereoscopic content, Region Of Interest/Domain of Definition (RoI/DoD), interface refinements, expanded 2D and 3D toolsets, and more.
Generation 1.1
Generation is a new class of software, which offers facilities a platform for artist collaboration and a visual canvas for efficient shot management. Generation combines shot-tracking with version histories, an editing panel for working with EDLs and playlists and playback functions for review. Version 1.1, unveiled to the industry at NAB 2009, adds new playback and image adjustment features, and extends the application’s collaborative capabilities.
SWAT (SoftWare Artist Training Program)
eyeon Software also recently launched its new SWAT certification program to ensure that new and established VFX artists receive the training and support they need to realize their full creative potential. With the new SoftWare Artist Training (SWAT) umbrella program, the company has expanded its international network of trainers, colleges, online resources and in-house product support personnel to ensure that every eyeon artist is up-to-speed on the latest versions of Fusion, Generation, Rotation and Vision.
The new financing options from eyeon Software Inc. are intended to help jumpstart more business for facilities by offering them the flexibility to design their own payment plans for new software purchases. For more information, contact eyeon Software at
+1 (416) 686-8411
ext. 130, email sales@eyeonline.com, or visit www.eyeonline.com.
Toronto: July 9, 2009... eyeon Software Inc. has announced a new financing option for its entire range of software products. For a limited time, users can purchase licences for eyeon applications with a $995 USD down payment and negotiate flexible payment plans as required. The offer includes Fusion™ 6.0 – the company’s award winning node-based compositing application; Generation® 1.1 – eyeon’s workflow management and review system; Rotation™ – the company’s rotoscoping, keying and retouching application, as well as eyeon’s Vision® suite of broadcast design tools.
A high demand for more advanced software tools, coupled with a renewing economy, has created the need for facilities and artists to update their infrastructures as they bid on new projects.
"With Fusion 6 out the door and many facilities opting for SWAT training, we have experienced a significant increase in Fusion inquiries and consequent sales," said Joanne Dicaire, Director of Sales and Marketing at eyeon. "We are offering our customers and growing client base the means to get back into production as quickly as possible by offsetting their upfront costs."
Fusion 6.0
This past June, eyeon launched Fusion 6.0 – the newest version of the company’s flagship compositing application. Optimized for the latest processor and GPU technologies, Fusion 6 offers significantly improved performance, together with a host of new features and capabilities, including full support for stereoscopic content, Region Of Interest/Domain of Definition (RoI/DoD), interface refinements, expanded 2D and 3D toolsets, and more.
Generation 1.1
Generation is a new class of software, which offers facilities a platform for artist collaboration and a visual canvas for efficient shot management. Generation combines shot-tracking with version histories, an editing panel for working with EDLs and playlists and playback functions for review. Version 1.1, unveiled to the industry at NAB 2009, adds new playback and image adjustment features, and extends the application’s collaborative capabilities.
SWAT (SoftWare Artist Training Program)
eyeon Software also recently launched its new SWAT certification program to ensure that new and established VFX artists receive the training and support they need to realize their full creative potential. With the new SoftWare Artist Training (SWAT) umbrella program, the company has expanded its international network of trainers, colleges, online resources and in-house product support personnel to ensure that every eyeon artist is up-to-speed on the latest versions of Fusion, Generation, Rotation and Vision.
The new financing options from eyeon Software Inc. are intended to help jumpstart more business for facilities by offering them the flexibility to design their own payment plans for new software purchases. For more information, contact eyeon Software at
+1 (416) 686-8411 ext. 130, email sales@eyeonline.com, or visit www.eyeonline.com.
New gizmo for NextEngine 3D Scanners - soon to be released!
Beta tester results with the new 2-axis robotic positioner:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=298aUVRcgKE&fmt=18
Shows scan result at the end of the movie.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=298aUVRcgKE&fmt=18
Shows scan result at the end of the movie.
r|shaders update on development, release, pricelist, and future, with some images
I'd like to update the community about the development phase of r|shaders collection for 3ds max.
I just updated the website with the final development timeline, the pricelist to pre-order it now or buy it when it will be released, some information about the future release and some technical test rendered image to see it in action. Actually I just finished to prepare Ice, Snow and Ocean beta release and I'm working at the license manager to have it deliverable in 2 weeks.
Soon I'll post more images and more infos about Snow land, Ice land and Sand shaders.Special discount for pre-orders and Natural:shaders crossgrade.
More informations at : http://www.alessandrocangelosi.com/html/products.html
I just updated the website with the final development timeline, the pricelist to pre-order it now or buy it when it will be released, some information about the future release and some technical test rendered image to see it in action. Actually I just finished to prepare Ice, Snow and Ocean beta release and I'm working at the license manager to have it deliverable in 2 weeks.
Soon I'll post more images and more infos about Snow land, Ice land and Sand shaders.Special discount for pre-orders and Natural:shaders crossgrade.
More informations at : http://www.alessandrocangelosi.com/html/products.html
Animator Union Makes Pact with Producers
Animation Guild Local 839 has reached a tentative three-year deal with the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers, per VARIETY.
The unions covering Hollywood's 2,000 animators announced Tuesday they had made the deal, which will take effect August 1 if ratified by members. Negotiations began May 18 and concluded Monday night.
Local 839 is part of the Intl. Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.
The deal includes a minimum 2 percent salary hike each year and a 1.5 percent gain in the employer contributions to the health and pension plan. There is also an increase in the number of hours employees will be required to work to keep benefits, similar to the new provisions in the IATSE West Coast contract that covers about 25,000 below-the-line workers.
The new IATSE West Coast contract also included 3 percent annual pay increases, which were first negotiated more than a year ago. Steve Hulett, business agent for Local 839, said the studios were unwilling to move higher than 2 percent for animators.
"We didn't have major, huge leverage," he added. "The conclusion to the negotiations wasn't awful, but it wasn't where we expected, or originally hoped, to touch down for a landing. We were not ecstatic at the final results, but we recognized existing realities and bargained accordingly."
The unions covering Hollywood's 2,000 animators announced Tuesday they had made the deal, which will take effect August 1 if ratified by members. Negotiations began May 18 and concluded Monday night.
Local 839 is part of the Intl. Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.
The deal includes a minimum 2 percent salary hike each year and a 1.5 percent gain in the employer contributions to the health and pension plan. There is also an increase in the number of hours employees will be required to work to keep benefits, similar to the new provisions in the IATSE West Coast contract that covers about 25,000 below-the-line workers.
The new IATSE West Coast contract also included 3 percent annual pay increases, which were first negotiated more than a year ago. Steve Hulett, business agent for Local 839, said the studios were unwilling to move higher than 2 percent for animators.
"We didn't have major, huge leverage," he added. "The conclusion to the negotiations wasn't awful, but it wasn't where we expected, or originally hoped, to touch down for a landing. We were not ecstatic at the final results, but we recognized existing realities and bargained accordingly."
Pixar Comic-Con Exclusives + Panel Guide
Are you a Pixar fan? I hope so… Planning to attend San Diego Comic-Con International this year? Great, here are some Pixar-related things to look out for at next week’s convention:Disney•Pixar/BOOM! Studios Hardcover Compilations & Special Edition Comics: As promised, BOOM! Studios will be releasing compilations of the story arcs from each Disney•Pixar comic. For Comic-Con they’ll be selling extra special hardcover versions of The Incredibles: Family Matters and Cars: The Rookie. Besides that, a holographic print of The Incredibles #1 will be on sale. Both are very limited edition. Location: Booth #2543
Exclusive Toy Story and Cars Mattel Action Figures: Earlier this year we got tips from Pixar Collector on exclusive toys coming this year to SDCC. From Toy Story comes the Buzz Lightyear in movie accurate packaging, from The World of Cars comes Rescue Squad Mater with Dalmatian Mia and Tia. Both by Mattel, available to all starting August 3rd on MattyCollector.com! Location: Booth #2845
Disney•Pixar Animation Panel: Footage, images and discussion profiling Pixar’s Toy Story/Toy Story 2 in 3-D Double Feature, Toy Story 3, Miyazaki’s Ponyo, Walt Disney Animation Studio’s The Princess and the Frog, Prep & Landing TV Special and Beauty and the Beast in 3-D! In attendance will be legenary directors such as John Lasseter, Hayao Miyazaki, Lee Unkrich, Ron Clements, John Musker and more! You can read the full details in our earlier post. Location: Hall H | Day/Time: Fri., July 24 at 12:45 PM
The Art of Cars Comics: The good folks at BOOM! Studios worked very hard coming up with stories that fit the continuity of Pixar’s classics but they do try to get a new artistic style for the comics too. See what the artists on The World of Cars, including writer Alan J. Porter, have in store for fans! Speaking of Porter, help him out with names of sleepy towns on Route 66 for upcoming issues. Location: Room 5AB | Day/Time: Sunday, July 26 from 2:00-3:00
Don’t Forget: Artists like Jeff Pidgeon and other Pixarians will be at the Con promoting their own personal works. Some will just be stopping by to check out the festivities so look out for them!
Please visit the convention’s official site for detailed schedules and more information.
Know of anything more that might interest the convention going Pixar fan? Tell us in the comments section!
trailer for Percy Jacksona $ the Olympains
as title. cool trailer. suppose to be the north American version of Harry Potter.
http://pdl.stream.aol.com/aol/brigh...1_720p_dl.m ov
http://pdl.stream.aol.com/aol/brigh...1_720p_dl.m ov
Save 50% on Master Bundle
Side Effects Software, an industry leader in 3D animation and visual effects software, is pleased to announce savings of 50% for the Houdini Master bundle. Studios looking for a new level of flexibility and control can now save money while enjoying the benefits of Houdini’s node-based workflow.
The bundle includes Houdini Master and the Annual Upgrade Plan which provides production-level technical support and access to all major, minor and daily builds of Houdini. Whether you are configuring Houdini, troubleshooting a production issue, or prototyping an effect for a new project, you can rely on the Annual Upgrade Plan to provide you with first class support.
To take advantage of these savings or to learn more about going procedural, visit:
http://www.sidefx.com/gopro
Digital Art Masters: Volume 4 Book - Now Shipping!
Digital Art Masters: Volume 4 is here, and is now shipping from 3DTotal.com: http://www.3dtotal.com/damv4/!
This year's artists include Loic e338 Zimmermann, Jelmer Boskma, James Paick, Marek Okon, and 46 other extremely talented artists who all give you an insight into the creation of their stunning imagery, hand-picked by the 3DTotal team for the 4th volume in our series!
Scroll down to click and drag your way through the book preview, and visit 3D Total - The cg artists home page for more information. Any questions regarding purchases, please contact cdsupport@3dtotal.com. If you're interested in submitting to a future Digital Art Masters project, please contact dam@3dtotal.com.
We hope you'll invest in the Digital Art Masters series, and that it will become a classic addition to your library. Thanks for checking it out!
This year's artists include Loic e338 Zimmermann, Jelmer Boskma, James Paick, Marek Okon, and 46 other extremely talented artists who all give you an insight into the creation of their stunning imagery, hand-picked by the 3DTotal team for the 4th volume in our series!
Scroll down to click and drag your way through the book preview, and visit 3D Total - The cg artists home page for more information. Any questions regarding purchases, please contact cdsupport@3dtotal.com. If you're interested in submitting to a future Digital Art Masters project, please contact dam@3dtotal.com.
We hope you'll invest in the Digital Art Masters series, and that it will become a classic addition to your library. Thanks for checking it out!
cmiVFX Launches Houdini Shading And Rendering Video
cmiVFX Launches Houdini Shading And Rendering Video
Watch High Definition Training Videos For The Visual Effects Industry Instantly From Anywhere In The World.
Princeton, NJ., July 16th, 2009 — cmiVFX | cmiStudios launches a brand new video for the Side FX Houdini Software application. The most frequent request from our customers was involving rendering and shading issues with the Houdini package itself.. We assembled a list of the most frequently asked questions and compiled a video knowledge base in this 4 hour Hi-Definition feature. Online documentation for this subject is nearly non-existant. We have successfully filled the void with an intense, fast paced video. There is so much information in this video, that artists will certainly have every tool necessary to complete any render task. Additional topics such as lighting and materials are covered in great depth. When it comes to high end CG and VFX training, there is only once choice... cmiVFX. This video is available today at the cmiVFX store. cmiVFX Video Player Online Store http://cmivfx.com/store/Browse.aspx?Category=11
Product Announcements — Houdini "Shading and Rendering"
http://www.cmivfx.com/SideFX_Houdin...ng/default.aspx
Introduction to Materials:
A very important step prior to the rendering process is defining the aspects of the surface of your objects. This action is achieved in a wide variety of ways in Houdini and is crucial to start somewhere neutral. Learn how you can create materials and how you can assign them to your objects as well as components.
Materials in Depth:
To have a deep understanding of what makes a material believable, its important to understand the materials pipeline. Houdini extends its procedural workflow into all aspects of the application including shading networks. It's important to know the many ways of application to surfaces. In addition to that, Houdini lets you compile the shaders inside of it in a unique way. It lets you not only write shaders with code but with visual blocks called VOPs as well. Knowing that, the artist will need to have options, and we will go through these options on how to create better, proper materials for your objects.
Rendering Tools:
Houdini has a lot of rendering tools that can benefit its users when working. We explore different tools like the render region tool, render view, MPlay, render nodes or output drivers, comparison tools and more. This will allow the artists workflow to be optimized for speed. Waste less time performing long test renders and spend more time tuning your look.
Project Start:
We create real projects at cmiVFX and we are happy to delve deep into a project that utilizes almost all of the rendering technology in Houdini. In this section, the project is introduced. The final result of this project is discussed as well as its modeling and UV sets used in the scene.
Direct and Indirect Lighting:
The rendering process as a whole, is about calculating the interaction of the lighting in the scene and outputting the result. Knowing about light and its physical properties is a very important step to understanding how to work out lighting inside any software. Understanding direct and indirect light is discussed in length with charts and graphs.
Translucent Materials:
In order to get to the next level of lighting calculations comprehension, We will show the methods of normal propagation for surface shading using the information gathered earlier. This resulting data helps create a translucent material inside Houdini.
Global Illumination:
With the information gathered so far about the importance of the indirect illumination we`ll go trough different ways to create indirect illumination inside Houdini, like the VEX global illumination light shader, PBR, photon mapping … etc, and also talk about one of the methods on how you can have indirect illumination on a per object basis. Let's investigate Image Based Lighting and how you can convert an image to the .rat format preferred by Mantra. Next, how to apply indirect illumination and light linking.
Simple Materials Application:
This section is geared to guide you on how to apply your created materials to the main project, finishing the lamps surface shaders, then working on the materials that do not need texturing for other objects in the scene.
Textures:
Once you have created UV's for geometry you can assign procedural or image based textures to surfaces. This task and others, like creating the corresponding materials for our objects and texturing them will be covered in a step by step method. Understanding COP networks to modify an image, then use the output as a texture for one of the materials is a focus in this portion of the video.
Displacement:
Displacement mapping is a very important way to add details to your objects without high resolution modeling. Having a good grip on how to create some displacement shaders for materials is essential. Navigate through shader view and use important parameters like the displacement bound and true displacements.
Sampling in Mantra:
Fine tuning and looking good.. That is what this chapter is all about. What makes a shader and light good and final?. Working on finishing touches, like adding some objects to reflect in our render, adding some lights, making some reflections and light linking and many other subjects compose the final touches of a our project.
Mantra is a powerful rendering engine, one of the best in the industry, but as any other beasts it need to be mastered. Knowing how to manage samples from the inside out is a phenomenal for fine tuning your scenes. We are going to look deep into how Mantra manages samples, also as an additional bonus we will have an overview on how Depth of Field works in Mantra to achieve our final result.
About the Author:
Georges Nakhle is 25 years old, lebanese, and has a masters degree in mechanical engineering. he has a wide artistic and scientific knowledge, he began his art steps with traditional painting and sculpting then gained a diploma in dramatic monologue (acting -singing), he has worked as a writer and perfomer in radio and TV. combining arts and science led him to CG, so he mastered many tools including Maya and Houdini among others, he's also a programmer so he's currently working for Dassault Systemes in Paris-France and he had also worked in combination between Dassault-Systemes and Mental Images the makers of mental-ray. He is very picky about the details and he believes that every small detail contributes to the finished product.
About cmiVFX
cmiVFX is the leader in High Definition Video Training for the Visual Effects Community. To test drive the new cmiVFX TVOD © system, visit http://www.cmivfx.com/cmi_vod.html For additional information about cmiVFX, visit www.cmivfx.com.
© 2009 cmiVFX | cmiStudios. *All rights reserved.
Watch High Definition Training Videos For The Visual Effects Industry Instantly From Anywhere In The World.
Princeton, NJ., July 16th, 2009 — cmiVFX | cmiStudios launches a brand new video for the Side FX Houdini Software application. The most frequent request from our customers was involving rendering and shading issues with the Houdini package itself.. We assembled a list of the most frequently asked questions and compiled a video knowledge base in this 4 hour Hi-Definition feature. Online documentation for this subject is nearly non-existant. We have successfully filled the void with an intense, fast paced video. There is so much information in this video, that artists will certainly have every tool necessary to complete any render task. Additional topics such as lighting and materials are covered in great depth. When it comes to high end CG and VFX training, there is only once choice... cmiVFX. This video is available today at the cmiVFX store. cmiVFX Video Player Online Store http://cmivfx.com/store/Browse.aspx?Category=11
Product Announcements — Houdini "Shading and Rendering"
http://www.cmivfx.com/SideFX_Houdin...ng/default.aspx
Introduction to Materials:
A very important step prior to the rendering process is defining the aspects of the surface of your objects. This action is achieved in a wide variety of ways in Houdini and is crucial to start somewhere neutral. Learn how you can create materials and how you can assign them to your objects as well as components.
Materials in Depth:
To have a deep understanding of what makes a material believable, its important to understand the materials pipeline. Houdini extends its procedural workflow into all aspects of the application including shading networks. It's important to know the many ways of application to surfaces. In addition to that, Houdini lets you compile the shaders inside of it in a unique way. It lets you not only write shaders with code but with visual blocks called VOPs as well. Knowing that, the artist will need to have options, and we will go through these options on how to create better, proper materials for your objects.
Rendering Tools:
Houdini has a lot of rendering tools that can benefit its users when working. We explore different tools like the render region tool, render view, MPlay, render nodes or output drivers, comparison tools and more. This will allow the artists workflow to be optimized for speed. Waste less time performing long test renders and spend more time tuning your look.
Project Start:
We create real projects at cmiVFX and we are happy to delve deep into a project that utilizes almost all of the rendering technology in Houdini. In this section, the project is introduced. The final result of this project is discussed as well as its modeling and UV sets used in the scene.
Direct and Indirect Lighting:
The rendering process as a whole, is about calculating the interaction of the lighting in the scene and outputting the result. Knowing about light and its physical properties is a very important step to understanding how to work out lighting inside any software. Understanding direct and indirect light is discussed in length with charts and graphs.
Translucent Materials:
In order to get to the next level of lighting calculations comprehension, We will show the methods of normal propagation for surface shading using the information gathered earlier. This resulting data helps create a translucent material inside Houdini.
Global Illumination:
With the information gathered so far about the importance of the indirect illumination we`ll go trough different ways to create indirect illumination inside Houdini, like the VEX global illumination light shader, PBR, photon mapping … etc, and also talk about one of the methods on how you can have indirect illumination on a per object basis. Let's investigate Image Based Lighting and how you can convert an image to the .rat format preferred by Mantra. Next, how to apply indirect illumination and light linking.
Simple Materials Application:
This section is geared to guide you on how to apply your created materials to the main project, finishing the lamps surface shaders, then working on the materials that do not need texturing for other objects in the scene.
Textures:
Once you have created UV's for geometry you can assign procedural or image based textures to surfaces. This task and others, like creating the corresponding materials for our objects and texturing them will be covered in a step by step method. Understanding COP networks to modify an image, then use the output as a texture for one of the materials is a focus in this portion of the video.
Displacement:
Displacement mapping is a very important way to add details to your objects without high resolution modeling. Having a good grip on how to create some displacement shaders for materials is essential. Navigate through shader view and use important parameters like the displacement bound and true displacements.
Sampling in Mantra:
Fine tuning and looking good.. That is what this chapter is all about. What makes a shader and light good and final?. Working on finishing touches, like adding some objects to reflect in our render, adding some lights, making some reflections and light linking and many other subjects compose the final touches of a our project.
Mantra is a powerful rendering engine, one of the best in the industry, but as any other beasts it need to be mastered. Knowing how to manage samples from the inside out is a phenomenal for fine tuning your scenes. We are going to look deep into how Mantra manages samples, also as an additional bonus we will have an overview on how Depth of Field works in Mantra to achieve our final result.
About the Author:
Georges Nakhle is 25 years old, lebanese, and has a masters degree in mechanical engineering. he has a wide artistic and scientific knowledge, he began his art steps with traditional painting and sculpting then gained a diploma in dramatic monologue (acting -singing), he has worked as a writer and perfomer in radio and TV. combining arts and science led him to CG, so he mastered many tools including Maya and Houdini among others, he's also a programmer so he's currently working for Dassault Systemes in Paris-France and he had also worked in combination between Dassault-Systemes and Mental Images the makers of mental-ray. He is very picky about the details and he believes that every small detail contributes to the finished product.
About cmiVFX
cmiVFX is the leader in High Definition Video Training for the Visual Effects Community. To test drive the new cmiVFX TVOD © system, visit http://www.cmivfx.com/cmi_vod.html For additional information about cmiVFX, visit www.cmivfx.com.
© 2009 cmiVFX | cmiStudios. *All rights reserved.
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