This production course introduces Softimage's more advanced animation and modeling features. Students use inverse kinematics with adjustable joint sensitivity and dampening to create believable movements. Advanced animation techniques are explored with an emphasis on realistic cartoon movement and timing. Upon completion students have a strong understanding of one of the most advanced and widespread 3D animation packages on the market. This intensive, creative course provides students with an introduction to Softimage's XSI and Extreme 3D, allowing students to proceed quickly from Softimage's basic to advanced capabilities.
Students learn the major components of rendering, modeling, and animation.
One 35-hour week of instruction time is followed by one week of dedicated lab time in which students are able to further their skills. An affordable production tool, 3D Studio MAX is widely used in motion pictures such as Armageddon and The Truman Show , television shows like Ally McBeal, broadcast commercials, and interactive games such as Diablo and the Tomb Raider series . In this course, students learn the fundamental features of 3D Studio MAX, including the user interface, modeling and animation, maps and materials, and particle systems. In this intermediate course, students create professional-looking animations and models. There is an emphasis on realistic images and special effects.