First Foray Into 3D

[mclaring]

Hi Guys,

Happy New Year and all that. Now, I finally bit the bullet and have started a foray into 3D using a trial with Autodesk 3DS Max. As most of you guys and gals are competent 2D simmers, I thought some of you might like to know what I have found. Well, here are my initial thoughts:

- the extra dimension brings in exponential levels of complexity;
- lighting is much harder than it looks
- applying materials correctly is an art science combined.

Yes, 3D does the work of shading (ambient lighting) for you, but unless you apply the right settings you wind up with a toy instead of an aeroplane.

Good news is I can visualize how to create a 3D photo-realistic aircraft in real dimensions. Bad news is I am about a year away from that, assuming I decide to buy the program (3D Max is veeeery expensive).

In summary, its a new game. 2D and 3D systems both have respective advantages and disadvantages. My first aviation product is this prop. The black background is not optimal, however I'm still too dumb to produce a good white one.

I'd be interest on the thoughts of others who have experienced the learning curve of transition from 2D to 3D,

MC

[inkworm]

It's all beyond me, Skyraider is the man who humbles the rest of us with this extra dimension stuff!

[GiantFlyingRobots]

I did the compulsory 3 semesters of it at Uni, and decided it wasn't going to be part of my career going forward and chose not to pursue it any further.

The learning curve is quite huge, especially initially. I wish you luck.

Have been tempted to take it up again on a number of occasions, then I make my regular visit to MM, where the standard of work just staggers me at times, and decide its best I stay in the shallow end of the pool.

No doubt most here are aware of MM.

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I'd like to see more 3D posted here.