Hot Software Tips How-Tos

How To: Create a motion blur camera effect with Mental Ray

Learn how to create a motion blur effect with Mental Ray in 3ds Max 2010 or 2011. See how to control the camera's shutter speed, the quality of motion blur, and how to decide if a single mesh has motion blur or the entire scene. You'll also take a look at fast motion blur option using Scanline Fast Rasterizer option. 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...

How To: Create a 3D model of Spiderman's logo using Cheetah 3D

Do you like Spider-man? Do you use Apple's Cheetah 3D to do 3D modeling? Then watch this video! It will show you how to create a 3D model of Spider-man's chest logo from the recent films using Cheetah 3D. It moves quickly and the model isn't the most detailed thing ever created, but the tips are great and should improve your modeling skills.

How To: Soften skin in Lightroom 2

In this software video tutorial you will learn how to soften skin feature in Lightroom 2 in Yanik's Photo School. Select a photo and zoom in to the skin area. Click on the adjustment brush, or ctrl K. Here you can adjust 7 features; exposure, brightness, contrast, saturation, clarity, sharpness and color. But, if you click on the other 'exposure' dropdown menu, you will get these 7 options and additionally a 'soften skin' option. Click on 'soften skin' and it gives you the options to add nega...

How To: Set up and manipulate action constraints in Blender

This Blender tutorial discusses how to set up action contraints, where you can use a bone to control things like finger curl/expand, or something more advanced, like facial expressions. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including ste...

How To: Make shaders for ground and terrain surfaces in modo

See how to create a natural shader to render ground/terrain surfaces. This clip takes a look at diffuse color properties, displacement and bump channels. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!

How To: Create a realistic interior environment in modo

See how to create a simple, life-like indoors environment in modo. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Create a realistic interior environment in modo.

How To: Create a photo-realistic sea environment in modo

In this tutorial we'll take a look on how we can proceed to create a photo realistic sea environment. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!

How To: Create a full body rig for a 3D character in Blender

This clip provides a complete guide on creating a full body rig for a 3D model within Blender. It demonstrates how to do a full setup on the left half (creating and placing bones, and also applying constraints), and copy it over to the right side for a perfectly symmetrical rig. Most of the features in 2.5 are the same, however, the keyboard shortcuts and a few menu items have been moved around. Create a full body rig for a 3D character in Blender.

How To: Create shape keys within Blender 2.5

This tutorial goes over creating shape keys (or shapekeys) within Blender and goes on to apply drivers to the shape keys so that the armature can control the them. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions...

How To: Use interaction presets in Blender

This clip presents a general introduction to Blender's useful built-in interaction presets. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on how to use these presets in your own Blender projects, take a look! ...

How To: Create layered 3D fur with the Blender particle system

In this tutorial, you'll see how to model fur in multiple layers within Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Create layered 3D fur with the Blender particle system.

How To: Control 3D animations with animation curves in Blender

Animation curves allow you to easily tweak your animation and give you utmost control. This quick tip introduces you to how to access them and how to use them. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, ta...

How To: Render with LuxRender in Blender 2.5

This tutorial presents a general introduction to using the LuxRender rendering engineconjunction with Blender. Learn where to get it, how to run the script, and how to render to LuxRender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including ...

How To: Adjust the camera angle via the trackball in Blender

Using the trackball technique you may quickly, and easily adjust your camera angle from the camera view. This is a much more efficient method of setting the angle than doing so manually. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including st...

How To: Use the Preview Rendering feature in Blender 2.49

Preview rendering can greatly speed up your workflow by allowing you to preview your scene within the viewport, from any angle and at low resolution as opposed to rendering the full scene anytime you check your progress. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. ...

How To: Create 3D magic wand particle effects in Blender

This video tutorial series will show you how to create a magic wand particles effect, the sort of visual effect you might see when a “magic wand” is waved. This will be similar to a “pixie” dust effect, although not so complicated. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at ...

How To: Model a 3D light bulb in Blender 2.5

This illuminating how-to demonstrates how to go about modeling a full 3D light bulb within Blender 2.5 Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Model a 3D light bulb in Blender 2.5 - Part 1 ...

How To: Create a reusable composite node library in Blender 2

In this tutorial, you'll how you can create a library of reusable composite nodes in Blender. It takes time to create node setups, and often the work is repetitive, so let’s see what can be done to be more efficient. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For ...

How To: Make a PDF out of almost anything on a Windows PC

In this Software video tutorial you will learn how to make a PDF out of almost anything on a Windows PC. PDF files offer many advantages. Here you will see 4 easy ways to create a PDF from almost any file type. For this you will need Adobe Acrobat Pro or a PDF printer application and a document that you want to convert. Technique 1. Right click on the document you want to convert and select 'convert to Adobe PDF'. Give it a name and click 'save'. It will then launch Adobe Acrobat and you can ...

How To: Render a 3D model of a car within modo

Learn how to go about rendering a car within modo. This clip discusses basic shader creation, studio lighting setup and how to approach to every single material using shader trees, raytracing with blurry reflection and global illuminations. What's more, you'll see how to create glasses, rims, brakes, tires, different car paint surfaces and more. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tri...

How To: Duplicate objects within modo with replicators

Modo's replicators are an especially useful kind of duplicate. You can use them to create thousands of duplicates and attach them to a mesh. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Duplicate objects within modo with rep...

How To: Use sub-surface scattering for shading skin in modo

In this clip, you'll see how to use sub-surface scattering inside modo, learning how to create a simple skin shader for a goblin creature using diffuse color and a custom procedural map to control skin roughness and bump effect. You'll also see how to create a simple but efficient lighting setup using two point lights and one area light source. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tric...

How To: Create a 3D model of a book in modo

This tutorial presents a general guide on how to model a book within modo, setting up the UVs, assigning some basic textures and materials to different poly groups. In the end, you will set up a studio shot for the book and create some more copies to fill the scene. In order to achieve the final product shot, you'll use some of the outputs provided with Modo. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for ne...

How To: Create a 3D natural landscape in modo

See how to create a complete natural environment in modo. See how to add a simple river mesh and then use procedural shaders and complex modo shader layering system to create a procedural rock shader and a basic water material. We'll use adaptive microtriangle displacement and bump mapping to achieve final rock look. Lighting will be based on internal daylight/skylight system to use global illumination to achieve a more natural result. Create a 3D natural landscape in modo.

How To: Import and export within modo 401

Learn how to import files into and export files from modo, the 3D modeling app. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Import and export within modo 401.

How To: Create a photo studio lighting setup in modo

This illuminating video tutorial presents instructions on how to create a studio-style lighting setup within modo 401. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Create a photo studio lighting setup in modo.

How To: Create realistic motion blur effects in modo 401

See how to add motion blur effect in animated scenes, how to control it and which kind of type of motion are supported by modo. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Create realistic motion blur effects in modo 401.

How To: Create colored & frosted glass shaders in modo

This modo video tutorial presents an overview of glass shader settings. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Create colored & frosted glass shaders in modo.

How To: Create a photographic lighting setup in modo

This modo tutorial offers instructions on how to create a simple scene with a basic photographic lighting setup as well as how to create some simple glasses using bezier curve and sweep operator tools. This guide also presents an overview on material and shader creation using the modo Shader Tree to render glasses and liquids. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to...

How To: Create a 3D Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon in modo

Breast cancer is one of the most deadly and tragic diseases afflicting women today. If you are interested in spreading breast cancer awareness and also in 3D modeling, then this video is a must-watch. It will teach you how to create a 3D model of the pink ribbon synonymous with breast cancer awareness, which you can then use on your website or in any other digital locale you wish.

How To: Create plastic and chrome shaders within modo

Learn how to create plastic, chrome and blurred chrome shaders within modo with this video guide. Whether you're new to Luxology's popular 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video modo tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Create plastic and chrome shaders within modo.

How To: Use HDR images in Blender for enhanced reflections

This Blender tutorial presents a look at how to enhance your reflections by using High Dynamic Range Images. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Use HDR images in Blender for enhanced r...

How To: Make a pumpkin texture in Blender 2.5

This clip will take you through the process of texturing a 3D pumpkin in Blender 2.5. This tutorial uses a procedural materials and textures. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look! Make a ...

How To: Make a 3D model of an axe in Blender 2.5

This modeling tutorial describes the process of creating an axe in Blender 2.5. The tutorial demonstrates basic modeling techniques and good use of the Shrinkwrap and Solidify modifiers. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including st...

How To: Unwrap a low-polygon building in Blender 2.5

In this Blender 2.5 video tutorial, you'll see how to begin the process of completely UV unwrapping a low poly, hard-surface building. The tutorial provides tips on how to deal with a large number of replicated objects and unwrapping a multitude of small parts. Part one covers unwrapping part of the side of the building and the fire escape. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout...

How To: Carve a 3D pumpkin into a jack-o'-lantern in Blender

This spooky-themed tutorial presents a look at some of the techniques needed to create a jack-o-lantern from a pumpkin. Some of the techniques include using retopo, extrude and some manual modeling. The tutorial also provides a series of tips for easily managing your camera angle and spot lights. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be w...

How To: Add a modeled 3D character into Blender's Game Engine

This Blender tutorialc overs the creation of a game-friendly model (i.e. low-polygon), texturing, rigging, animating, and bringing it into the game engine with basic forward and back controls, as well as turning left and right, and running. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the ...

How To: Create a 3D model of a simple palm tree in Blender 2.5

This Blender 2.5 video tutorial will teach you how to model a simple palm tree using a series of modifiers and linked meshes. The tutorial also demonstrates a technique for quick and dirty outdoor rendering. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more info...

How To: Sculpt the face of a rock in Blender 2.5

In this Blender 2.5 video tutorial, you'll see how to do some fairly intensive sculpting on creating a rock face. This tutorial makes use of a technique very similar to sketching by layering large numbers of stroke over one another to automatically create much of the detail. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this fre...

How To: Recover a lost file in Blender 2.5's autosave feature

With this quick Blender 2.5 video tip, you'll see how to stave off frustration in the case of a crash or lost work by using Blender's autosave feature to recover your work. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step ins...