Dive right in to your VFX course with 3D modeling, animation and visual effects exercises using Maya, Substance Painter, and Houdini. Practice setting up a proper workflow–a vital skill you’ll use throughout your career. Have a go at creating a realistic animation using the 12 Principles of Animation, then move onto basic 3D props. Finish with portfolio pieces including animation walk cycles, character jumps, 3D models such as stylized props or weapons, plus a space rover or robot model.

Animation Foundations (Stream A)

• How to navigate software used by VFX studios

• Animate and build 3D models from scratch

• Create believable motion in your animation

• Retopolgize hi-res objects for clean line flow

3D Modeling Foundations (Stream B)

• How to set up proper workflows in Maya

• Retopolgize objects for clean line flow

• Create 3D assets from film & games

• Texture using Substance Painter

Build on your animation and 3D modeling foundation knowledge with more complex projects. Start animating characters interacting with their surroundings and see how they respond to physical force by creating combat actions for film and games. Next, you’ll learn all about human anatomy and create your own 3D character with clothing, hair and accessories. Finally, using a concept design as a guide, you’ll create a realistic 3D environment with assets like buildings, trees, rocks and props.

Intermediate Animation (Stream A)

• How to animate action sequences

• Body mechanics for animation

• Create 3D environments from scratch

• Texture, light and render 3D assets

Intermediate 3D Modeling (Stream B)

• How to create 3D characters & environments

• Set up a basic scene for rendering

• Model organic & hard surface assets

• Apply lighting & rendering techniques

Your VFX training is not complete until you can confidently produce stunning visual effects for the film in Houdini. Learn how to create dynamic particle effects and seamlessly implement them into a scene with lighting and rendering. By the end of this course you will have a hands-on understanding of the VFX pipeline, several portfolio pieces, and a clearer idea of which specialty you wish to pursue in the film industry.

• How to create unreal visual effects for film

• Use simulation and particle techniques

• Light and composite your shot

• Professionally present your work