In this series of lessons we'll learn how to use_the tracking, keying and masking nodes in Nuke to create a fast, robust rotoscope shape. By using each node for their specific strength, we'll be able to achieve production-quality results much faster than hand keying.

In this DVD, Richard Smith guides you through modeling a Next-Gengame character. Richard starts with a rough concept design and then creates a low-res base mesh. From there he sculpts each part in ZBrush with special attention paid to creating realistic clothing folds. Once each part is completely sculpted Richard retopologizes it inside of Maya using a plug-in called Nex. Finally, using XNormal he creates the normal map and then sets everything up in Maya. This DVD is intended for artists with a basic understanding of polygon modeling in Maya, but the techniques he demonstrates could_be_applied using other 3D_modeling software.

At some point everyone becomes enamored with surface detailing and wrinkles. In this DVD Cesar Dacol Jr. unlocks the secrets that he uses in the feature film industry. He will navigate you through the processes of internal and external forces that cause wrinkles. You will never look at a wrinkle the same way as you explore compression zones, anchor points, tissue composition and external elements in your design. Wrinkles can be complex and overwhelming, but Cesar will teach you some basic tricks that simplify the thought process behind the rhythmic patterns. You will discover the why, where and how to apply wrinkles convincingly to a sculpture. Even though this model was created in a computer using ZBrush, the methods taught are analog-based and can be easily ported into a traditional sculpture or other 3D applications like MudBox. Instructor for this title: Cesar Dacol Jr.

In this class, David Meng^ shares his thoughts on how he includes personality and expression in a character bust, striving to avoid anything innocuous or generic but still keeping subtlety in the sculpture. The practical aspects of working with^ plastaline and armatures will be addressed, as well as the subjective aspect of creative influences and the challenges involved in creating something that will^ entertain and surprise viewers.

This course^ covering the design and construction of digital characters will focus on motion; primarily skeletal animation and surface deformation. Rick^Grandy will discuss the biomechanics of real animals, taking the knowledge learned from nature and using it to help create creatures^ that move in a ^believable way. He'll also discuss when to break the rules, and how to improve the performance of your characters.

Award-winning^ independent director Greg^Jonkajtys shares his^experience designing and executing the visual effects for his new live-action short film The 3rd Letter. Topics will include storyboards and animatics, shooting with the^Canon 5D Mark II DSLR camera, blending computer generated effects^with real props, and^extending live-action sets with CG.

This set shows and teaches you how to model in Maya using high polygon techniques in order to create complex hard surface models. In this tutorial you are shown how to create a science fiction carrier ship, Ultimax Apocolypse. During this tutorial you are shown the techniques of creating high polygon models, application of detail and use of subdivision and smoothing techniques in order to create the finished model that you see below. Following creation of the piece, smaller fighter ships are created and then the scene is rendered and composited onto a backplate created in Photoshop.

In this tutorial Christopher Emerson will take you through the beneficial technique that provides more artistic control and saves you render time. Christopher will cover Pass setup in Maya, compositing in Eusion. and various tips and tricks to achieve higher quality, animation friendly results. Maya 2009 and up is required, but any professional compositing software can be used.

It is a DVD packed into a plastic case which contains information on the creating of a sportcar model.. The disc has 20 hours of video tutorials. This time includes all the stages of creating the model from scratch. (21 videos lasting from 20 to 100 minutes).