Learn an time-saving workflow to lighting and essential techniques for adding greater realism when rendering in Maya. Contains 3 hours of project-based training - Ideal for new and beginning artists.

In this tutorial we will learn about the essential lighting tools and features found in Maya. Understanding how the various lighting tools in Maya work and behave is a very important skill for anyone who is getting started with this 3D application. In this Maya lighting tutorial, we will discuss the different types of 3D lights found in Maya, and methods for easily aiming and controlling your lights. We will also explore some of the specialized attributes found in certain light types, we will discuss the different types of shadows available in Maya, we will see how we can add depth and mood to our scenes though the use of volumetric light rays, as well as many other lighting tools and concepts that will help you establish a solid foundation in Maya.

In this Maya modeling tutorial, we will get an introductory look at the modeling process in Maya. We will use a project-based approach as we cover the basics of modeling, look at commonly used tools, and talk about some time-saving tips and techniques gleaned from production experience. We will begin by looking at the various types of geometry available to you and how you can actually convert between those different types. You will learn how to organize your model into hierarchies and keep your scene clean and efficient. We will also take a look at several modeling tools, including polygonal tools like extrude and the insert edge loop tool for adding resolution, NURBS tools like loft and extrude to create smooth surfaces, and a few subd tools as well. We will take a look at using a smoothing or subdivision workflow and use deformers to help shape our models. We are going to take a slightly different approach to this introduction course, in that we are not going to talk about all of the Maya modeling tools, but rather focus on the tools that you are going to find most useful as you begin the modeling process. Once you have a better understanding of how these tools work together, you will be able to create your own modeling solutions and really come up with a workflow that is comfortable to you.

 

Create convincing walk cycles and easily learn time-saving animation techniques in Maya. Contains over 2.5 hours of project-based training. Perfect for beginner to intermediate users.

Five single lessons on Vray for Maya: Rendering V-Ray MultiMattes in Maya, Utilizing V-Ray fur in Maya, Rendering round edges in V-Ray, Rendering V-Ray material IDs in Maya, Gamma correcting textures in V-Ray

In this series of lessons, we will help you get a strong understanding of Maya and how it works. You'll get the chance to work with many of the Maya instructors here at Digital-Tutors who will show you how to use some of the major components of Maya.