As we were introduced to the Visual Effects Fundamentals, we created an abstract sculpture and modelled the Tesla Cybertruck. I was already familiar with Maya because during my BA in Games Art and Design I learned how to make 3d game assets (with modelling, UV mapping, texturing etc.). However, it has been about 2-3 years since I last used the software, and during the sessions, I realised that relearning the basics helps me form new good habits. Recently,
I have become more interested in Blender, trying to create concept scenes to paint over later. My biggest struggle was modelling assets so having these sessions is very helpful in speeding up my workflow.
The first truck I modelled lacked many details, resulting in a block shape that was nothing like the cybertruck. On Tuesday, I went back to the recorded session and slowly remodelled the vehicle. This time I focused on the shape language and correct angles, as well as added more details to refine the simple model. I also tried to diversify the materials, although I did not change the colours and properties of the preset materials, which resulted in less accuracy. My tires don’t look like the real ones either. As I was trying to correct my mistakes, I decided not to spend too much time on them and leave it as it.
I will remember to pay attention to these issues (e.g. smoothing the tires without losing detail) in the following sessions as we move on to more detailed applications of Maya. Overall it was a good beginning session to help me establish the basics and speed up the workflow in my 3D modelling programs. I am more interested in compositing, but want to build a good foundation in 3D as I am aware that having the skills and knowledge to create 3D assets will help in any job in the industry. I also intend to include the models in my portfolio to show the diversity of my skills.
Workshop notes:
Overview of the user interface and keyboard shortcuts:
Autodesk Maya: Basics (2020) Available at: https://help.autodesk.com/view/MAYAUL/2020/ENU/?guid=GUID-6B531DDB-3440-4216-A322-FB6CD1EA83A1 (Accessed: 3 October 2022).
Autodesk Maya: Interface overview (2020) Available at: https://help.autodesk.com/view/MAYAUL/2020/ENU/?guid=GUID-F4FCE554-1FA5-447A-8835-63EB43D2690B (Accessed: 3 October 2022).
Autodesk Maya: All Maya Hotkeys (2020) Available at: https://help.autodesk.com/view/MAYAUL/2020/ENU/?guid=GUID-30CACC9D-8FBE-4B85-8A8F-C5ADF32DDD4E (Accessed: 3 October 2022).
Introduction to modelling and sculpting tools:
B – brush tool for more subtle/organic changes. Sculpting tools such as relaxation are also helpful in this.
To create a custom shelf:
- Select > New Shelf, next to the default shelves.
- Enter a name for the new shelf and click Ok.
- Add a tool action menu item or script to a shelf to add the tools you want.
Always have Tool Settings pinned on the left side of the interface.
To open the Tool Settings panel, do one of the following:
- Click the Tool Settings icon in the sidebar icons on the right end of the Status line.
- Double-click any tool icon in the Tool Box, such as the Select or Move tool.
- Choose Windows > General Editors > Tool Settings.
Setting up a scene:
- Light: aiSkyDomeLight
- Set up an HDRI scene.
Autodesk Maya: High Dynamic Range Imaging (HDRI) (2020) Available at: https://knowledge.autodesk.com/support/maya/learn-explore/caas/CloudHelp/cloudhelp/2016/ENU/Maya/files/GUID-CB4649DA-DAA6-437B-9334-01080564020F-htm.html (Accessed: 3 October 2022).
PolyHaven (2023) Available at: https://polyhaven.com/ (Accessed: 3 October 2022).
Always use Incremental Save (Ctrl+Alt+S) and save regularly throughout the project. When Incremental Save is turned on and you save the scene, a backup folder by the same name is created in the scenes\incrementalsave folder and a backup is made of the file that was previously saved to disk. Each time you save, another backup file is created.