Polymodeling is a modeling technique used in 3d modeling. Unlike box modeling, or other forms of modeling where you start out with a basic form or primitive object that determines the mass of an object, artists can use the polygon (the basic building block of all of the primitives available in 3ds Max). This approach allows for more control over the flow, placement and detail of the meshes that are built. Placement of vertices/points, edges and all other sub-elements that build our models is determined by the user, rather than pre-determined by a computer generated primitive.
This book is a collection of tips, tricks and techniques on how to create professional models for advertising on T.V and the web. The author has tons of industry experience using Max toward this end, and he shares the secrets of his trade. As Production Modeler for some of today's hottest studios (including GuerillaFx, Coke Zero, MTV, Old Navy, Nike, Target, HP) Todd Daniele brings real-world experience to the book. Daniele teaches the technical aspects of polymodeling, while showing how to ultimately create content in a dynamic, efficient manner.
Associated web site offers instructional files that show the models in progressive stages of development; plus a supporting internet forum: readers can log-on to this forum to ask questions or comment on anything covered in the book.
Table of Contents:
Polymodeling with Max
Book Outline-
Chapters
1. Introduction- What this book is all about, as well as a brief overview of the authors credentials
2. Modeling Types- We are going to cover all of the modeling options, as some will lend themselves later to the polymodeling process.
Splines-
Nurbs
Patch
Box
Polymodeling: an intro to our preferred method of modeling
- Features covered will include spline modeling, surface modifier basics. Creating a base mesh we can later apply polymodeling techniques to.
-A brief discussion of the Nurbs modeling toolset and functions.
-Patch modeling tools, usage and conversion to an editable poly mesh. We will build a basic mesh and convert so we can apply polymodeling techniques.
-Basic Box modeling overview with a focus on the tools and techniques commonly used. Extrude, inset, bevel, chamfer tools will be introduced and demonstrated. As before we can use this mesh as a base for polymodeling techniques.
-Polymodeling: an intro to our preferred method of modeling. A brief discussion on this technique, and the benefits of its use.
3. Polymodeling Basics-Techniques used to add detail to a model, various methods to move sub-object selections with precision.
-Editable poly
- Shift/Drag method will be introduced and demonstrated. Shift drag will be the basis of many of our model building exercises later on in the book.
-edge and face constraints, usage and benefits. The constraint systems are a key element to our polymodeling workflow later on.
-Inset, bevel, chamfer, bridge to create and form our model.
-Sub-object Selection methods, conversion techniques to speed workflow.
-edit poly modifier
4. Modifiers-Letting Max do the work for you------Information, as well as a demonstration of how allowing the application to do calculations can often result in a cleaner end product.
-Bend Modifier, Taper, Spherify and other applicable object-space modifiers. A demonstration of how these modifiers will produce cleaner meshes. We will later model a detailed object in a flat state and use a modifier to give it a curved surface.
5. Derivative modeling and other techniques to speed up your polymodeling workflow--- We are going to cover the method of extracting part of a mesh to build another mesh, using repetitive geometry, and using the info from the last chapter to alter an existing model into something unique.
-Detach element, detach polygons to create additional geometry from existing models.
-edge constraints to shape and fine tune the new object
-Shell Modifier to create depth and thickness to our models
-Snap tools to align sub-object elements to existing meshes.
6. Theory and application--Not a very technical description, we are just going to discuss what works, and why it works, without getting involved in any information that may be confusing.
-Edge loops, what they are and why they are good
-Vertex proximity, how vertex placement influences the detailed areas of our models.
-Sub-object placement-positioning and manipulation of all sub-object elements
-mesh flow, directing a mesh flow through the use of polymodeling tools
7. You are in Control-Your mesh shouldn't dictate your final output- We are going to cover some common polymodeling mistakes, and the simple, and not so simple solutions to them.
-Welding vertices to create smooth corners and transitions
-Pinching and correction, steps to eliminate common mesh errors
-mesh, loop and vertex density
8. Preparation-Tips to make your projects go smoother- Basic overview of references, applications, blueprints and other aspects that aid in the process.
-Reference collection, and resources. Where to find refs, how to prepare them for optimal usage later on.
-Setting up blueprints, mapping images to planes that are used as a guide for polymodeling.
-Spline guides, we are going to show the benefits of using splines to map out your meshflow
-Image manipulation with an image editor for better result when modeling.(changes to saturation, color and size)
-Using ACDSee/settings to efficiently view reference while modeling.
9. Hard-Edge Modeling- A step by step excercise in hard edge modeling(man made objects). We are going to cover some material that will have the reader producing clean, professional results.
-Tutorial using all of the tools mentioned earlier. Vertex and edge placement, and density, as well as constraints will be covered.
-techniques to implement, and when to use them
10. Organic/Soft-edge modelling-- Step by step excercise covering important aspects of Organic modeling. We will touch on creating an animation ready mesh.
-Tutorial using all of the tools mentioned earlier Vertex and edge placement, and density, as well as constraints will be covered. We will also show proper mesh flow and how to create an animatable mesh.
-techniques to implement, and when to use them
-Edge loops and deformation
11. Mixing it up- Crossing boundries between soft and hard edge modelling.---Information about the use of 2 very different modeling disciplines to benefit each other in the creative process.
-Crossing of techniques to create more natural results.
12. LOD(level of detail) for production - Enough is Enough-- An overview of what is required in a deadline environment. We always want to add more detail, many times deadline dictates what we can actually do. Tricks and tips to get the best results with time limitations.
-Modeling for a deadline
13. Non modeled Geometric detail-Bump and Displacement mapping-- We are going to cover the growing importance of displacement, and bump maps to add non modeled detail to your models. We will discuss pros and cons of each, and when to use each 1.
-how to prep a model for export to 1 of theses apps(basic steps.)
-UV unwrapping is involved, this is a bit of a tedious process, so every
detail will not be covered
-Basic overview of what 1 would typically do in z-brush/mudbox.
Painting details, subdividing meshes
-Export of displacement maps (a map that gives the illusion that your
model has much more modeled detail)
-Finally we will reimport the model/maps, and show how to set-up 3dsMax
to show the result of the work done in the external application
14. Scripts, Plug-ins and other additions-- A basic overview of some scripts and tools that make modeling even more user friendly within 3DS Max.
-Polyboost- Basic overview and usage
-OrionFlame-Basic overview and usage
15. Final word
About the Author :
Todd Daniele has worked for several major N.Y. based studios, including GuerillaFx.
Daniele's work for GuerillaFx has been featured on TV, the Internet and even the Jumbo-trons in Times Square (NYC). He has contributed work to several high-profile clients including: Coke Zero, MTV, Old Navy, Procter and Gamble, Nike, Cingular/ATT and BMW.
Review :
"I consider myself a seasoned 3ds Max user, but I have always struggled with poly-modeling organic shapes inside 3ds Max. Todd Daniele explained several of the "missing links" for me. Without any hesitation I would highly recommend this book to anyone using 3ds Max that wants to immediately improve their modeling techniques." --Jeff Patton, Freelance Digital Artist
"While I personally feel like Todd may be giving a little bit too much away, his new book is the perfect companion for both intermediate and über-advanced modelers. Whether you're looking for a refresher on the basics or trying to take it to the next level, Todd's book is a must-read!" --Jesse Holmes, Freelance TD & VFX Supervisor
