This series introduces the essential techniques for creating digital sets and backgrounds, an area of visual effects growing in prominence. In this first disc of a series of three, visual effects designer Eric Hanson reviews architectural design principles then leads into setting up a scene with a tracked camera and live-action plate. Next, Eric illustrates efficient set modeling techniques using both NURBS and polygons. Finally, the lesson provides a broad review of camerawork, from motion control to camera projection. Throughout the disc, Eric uses a sample scene of an urban environment to highlight all essential steps. The lecture is designed for all advancing intermediate Maya artists.

Over 2 hours of lecture.

01. Essentials of Architectural Design
02. Setting Up Your Scene
03. 3D Tracking Setup and Issues
04. Set Modeling Technique w/ NURBS
05. Set Modeling Technique w/ Polygons
06. Misc Modeling Tricks
07. Final Project Design Layout
08. Camerawork Technique