Autodesk 3ds Max Features

How To: Use the 3ds Max Material Editor

An introductory video tutorial on the material editor within 3DS Max software. Learn about material selections, shaders and more. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the 3ds Max 2011 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using the Material Editor in your own projects, take a look! Use the 3ds Max Material Editor.

How To: Use the Dreamscape 3D Studio Max plug-in

This tutorial takes a general look at the structure of the Dreamscape lug-in, providing general information on how to use it. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using the Dreamscape plug in your own Max projects, take a look!

How To: Create and use groups in 3ds Max

One of the object association types in 3ds Max is groups. In this video tutorial we will learn how to create the relationship in 3DS Max. The author compares groups to dating, where each individual has higher commitment yet they still retain their own identity. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, take a look! ...

How To: Implement mesh relaxation in 3ds Max

This 3D software tutorial shows you how to use the relax modifier in 3ds Max. Learn how to implement mesh relaxation with the relax modifier when modeling in 3D Studio Max. Using mesh relaxation is a fast way to turn cubed or planar surfaces into curved shapes in 3ds Max. Implement mesh relaxation in 3ds Max.

How To: Create a realistic model of a modern lamp in Autodesk 3ds Max 2011

In this video tutorial, we learn how to use create a realistic model of a modern lamp in 3ds Max 2011. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the 3ds Max 2010 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using the lessons imparted by this free video software tutorial yourself, watch this free video guide.

How To: Use surface tools to model a human leg in 3DS Max

Surface tools are a powerful part of 3D Studio Max, allowing the creation of more realistic textures for organic and natural forms. This video demonstrates how to use them as a part of the process of modeling a human leg. The legs may not be as important as the face models, but they are still essential to creating a good-looking figure and are a good tool for practicing the use of surface tools.

How To: Work with particle flow in Autodesk 3ds Max 2011

In this video tutorial, we learn how to work with particle flow in Autodesk 3ds Max 2011. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the 3ds Max 2011 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using the lessons imparted by this free video software tutorial yourself, watch this free video guide.

How To: Create a 3D shadow matte in 3ds Max

In this tutorial, we learn how to create a 3D shadow matte in 3ds Max. If you have a scene where you need a realistic looking background, you can trick doing this by using 3ds Max. First, go up to the rendering and go to environment. Add an environment map and then click on bitmap and find the image that you want to use. From here, make sure your map is highlighted, then right click and show the background. If you render this out, you will have a picture of the background you want. After this...

How To: Link 3D images to sound files in 3DS MAX

There are a lot of videos out there about creating models and animating them using 3D Studio MAX. What isn't often discussed is the next step in creating a movie out of your models, adding sound and syncing your animations to the sound. This eight-part video series will show you how to do just that, animate objects and other properties with a sound file. This is very good stuff that you will need to know if you ever want to make a whole 3D movie yourself.

How To: Create & manipulate shape lights in 3ds Max 2010

In this clip, you'll see how to create custom shaped light sources using simple meshes and adding an Arch&Design shader to it to render the scene with Mental Ray. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using shape lights in your own Max projects, take a look!

How To: Model trim in 3D Studio Max

This clip provides a quick reference on how to create realistic trim quickly using splines and editable polys. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started modeling realistic trim in your own 3ds Max projects, take a look!

How To: Edit polygons in 3ds Max

This 3d Max video tutorial is aimed at new users. You will learn how to edit polygons, and convert mesh shapes to editable polygons. This video shows you how to select a vertex, an edge, a polygon, and an element. Make sure to hit "play tutorial" in the top left corner of the video to start the video. There is no sound, so you'll need to watch the pop-up directions. Edit polygons in 3ds Max.

How To: Generate foam with the Dreamscape 3ds Max 2010 plug-in

See how to use Dreamscape to generate foam, how to export it as a bitmap sequence and how to control every single parameter to change its look. See how to use 3ds Max 2010's built-in grouping features to work on multiple meshes the same way you might work on a single object. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information,...

How To: Work with Standard Materials in 3ds Max

In this how to video, you will learn how to work with standard materials in 3D Studio Max. The material editor is found by clicking the multicolored button to the right. You can see sample spheres where you can see examples of materials. Below, you can see surface properties such as shaders and ambient colors. You can select the type of material to be applied here. You can select the standard material to get familiar with it. First, decide the shaders. Blend is the default shader, although th...

How To: Render falling sand with the 3ds Max Krakota plugin

See how to create a complex falling sand Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software, new to the Krakota plugin or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started creating eye-catching scenes with Krakota yourself, take a look!

How To: Add a simple spotlight to your scene in 3ds Max

Good lighting can make your animation look more realistic. In this 3ds Max video tutorial you will learn how to add a simple spotlight to your scene. Also, you'll be taught how to edit light range and apply shadows to lit objects. Make sure to hit "play tutorial" in the top left corner of the video to start the video. There is no sound, so you'll need to watch the pop-up directions. Add a simple spotlight to your scene in 3ds Max.

How To: Use and work with materials in Autodesk 3ds Max 2011

In this video tutorial, we learn how to use materials in Autodesk 3ds Max. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the 3ds Max 2011 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using the lessons imparted by this free video software tutorial yourself, watch this free video guide.

How To: Work with the Slate Material Editor in 3D Studio Max

Learn how to take use the Slate material editor in 3ds Max 2011. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the 3ds Max 2011 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial from CG Cookie. For more information, and to get started using the Slate tool in your own 3ds Max 2011 projects, watch this free video guide. Work with the Slate Material Editor in 3D Studio Max.

How To: Make 3D models when working in 3D Studio Max

Need a refresher on how to model when using 3ds Max? This clip will show you how it's done. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, watch this free video guide.

How To: Clone objects in 3ds Max to create a crowd scene

Do you want to create a crowd scene fast? In this 3ds Max video tutorial you will learn how to clone objects in your scenes. You'll learn how to clone as copy, clone as a reference, and clone as instance. Make sure to hit "play tutorial" in the top left corner of the video to start the video. There is no sound, so you'll need to watch the pop-up directions. Clone objects in 3ds Max to create a crowd scene.

How To: Break up and animate meshes in 3D Studio Max 2010

This clip illustrates a few techniques for breaking meshes up into pieces and animating them using 3ds Max's Reactor system. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, take a look!

How To: Create basic 3D models in 3D Studio Max 2011

Get started creating simple 3D models within 3ds Max 2011. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started creating your own 3D models in 3ds Max 2011, take a look!

How To: Create & manipulate volumetric lights in 3ds Max 2010

This clips presents a look at the standard volume light, one of the oldest 3ds max features. See how to add it on the scene, how to tune its volume parameters, attenuate it and create complex final looks like the addition of dust in the air. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using volumetr...

How To: Use Caddies in Autodesk 3ds Max 2011

Learn how to use Caddies in 3ds Max 2011. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular modeling software or a seasoned 3D artist just looking to better acquaint yourself with the 3ds Max 2011 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, and to get started using the Caddies in your own 3ds Max 2011 projects, watch this free video guide.

How To: Use the Ink & Paint shader tools in 3ds Max 2010 or 2011

This video lesson provides a general overview of the Ink & Paint shader tools in 3ds Max 2010 or 2011. Whether you're new to Autodesk's popular 3D modeling program or a seasoned graphic artist just interested in better acquainting yourself with the application, you're sure to be well served by this free video tutorial. For more information, including detailed instructions, take a look. Use the Ink & Paint shader tools in 3ds Max 2010 or 2011.

How To: Create target cameras in 3ds Max

A target camera's view is focused by a target object. Moving or rotating the target camera will cause it to always tilt so that its focus remains on the target. In this 3ds Max video tutorial you will learn how to create and use target cameras. Make sure to hit "play tutorial" in the top left corner of the video to start the video. There is no sound, so you'll need to watch the pop-up directions. Create target cameras in 3ds Max.