Datasheet

finding that programs such as 3ds Max are valuable tools for generating elements for their
own work, digital or not. Let’s take a look at the concepts behind 3D creation.
The following sections break down the fundamental concepts behind CG.
3D Space
3D space, the virtual canvas in which you create 3D objects, is a simulation of space that is
divided into three axes, X,Y, and Z, representing (in loose terms) left/right, up/down, and
in/out. Figure 1.1 shows 3D space in a Max window.
So what the heck do you with 3D space? In many ways, setting up a scene in CG is like
setting up a photo shoot. With a photo shoot, you gather your subjects and pose them in
your composition. You set up lights to illuminate them as dramatically or naturally as you
need them to look and then take pictures with your camera, framing the composition as
you like it. Next, you develop and fine-tune your photos or adjust them with tools such as
Photoshop before you print them. Finally comes the happy part of showing them off and
sharing your work with others.
Computer graphics production has much the same workflow, although with CG you
create nearly everything from scratch in your 3D space. Instead of running out and hunt-
ing down the perfect models and all the props and settings you need for a photo, you cre-
ate them. You model everything first and then apply colors and texture to the surfaces you
created. Once you lay out your scene with all the settings and props you need, you set up
your CG lights to illuminate the models. Lighting is perhaps the most important aspect of
CG, as this stage of CG production really makes or breaks a scene.
Once your lighting is ready, you render the scene. This is akin to developing your photos.
Knowing what the end result should be will dictate how you decide to render. You can choose
several settings for quality and output, for example, so you can show off your scene to your
friends (although a QuickTime movie can’t be hung on the fridge the way a photo can).
Figure 1.1
3D space looks good
enough to eat!
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