Where to start?

Mr.Freak

Hello Polycount, I have been lurking for a while and only recently made an account but I have a question for you!

Where do I start with 3D modeling? I have 3DS MAX 2012, and have only basic experience with it (due to the 3D modeling class I took being a joke, while also being a waste of time and money). Most tutorials I find are for older versions of 3DS MAX and I am not sure it they would be compatible.

If I can get some decent help from this thread I will make a DS post, for all to C&C.

Thanks in advance!

r_fletch_r

Max's docs are great to start off with, once your done there I would take a look at eat3d, and 3dMotive.

What are you interested in modelling?

respawnrt

^that's how i started lol.I had no internet at the time, those help docs were fascinating to me...

Mr.Freak

I am most interested in Prop and Enviroment/Level Design side of modeling. As for character modeling, I will wait until I have a good foundation in 3D work before I start on that.

Ark

Well I think your should start to specialise early, now, in character modeling if that's what you wanna do and not just using environment/prop art as a path to a character artist.

Not that A takes more skill than B or vica versa, but the roles are pretty different.
Character artists are better focusing on anatomy, modeling for animation and creating strong silhouetted forms, whereas as lighting, composition and using efficient texturing will benefit a Environment artist better.

Mr.Freak

I would rather work focus on props and environment then.

Eat3D Max 101 uses 2009/2010, would it still be useful for me using 2012?

Ark

Yeah, adsk basically knock updates out every year without any major features, well features that aren't applicable to games dev, so that DVD should do just fine.
Couple that with the help docs and you should be set for the basics of 3ds Max.

Ruz

Mr.Freak - focus on general modelling techniques, rather than worrying about which version of max you are using

r_fletch_r

Mr.Freak wrote: »

I would rather work focus on props and environment then.

Eat3D Max 101 uses 2009/2010, would it still be useful for me using 2012?

yes, version of max going backward is a totally moot point. Like Ruz said get your fundamentals down and you'll be flying it.

Mr.Freak

OK, thanks for the tips y'all! I will post a DS as soon as I make a model not related to a tutorial.

Any other info for getting started is still welcome, so others like me can find this thread to help them as well!