As a hobby or as a career, 3D animation has had some exciting advancements over the years. As a result of advancements, this field has yielded some pretty amazing computer software titles. Animation has come a long way from rudimentary Thaumatropes to more complex 3D animation films by studios across the globe.
A computer is one piece of equipment needed to design 3D animations. The equipment you purchase or currently own should be capable of handling the software package that you intend to use for the animating process. Also, know your computer's limitations and upgrade-ability as this will affect which system you purchase. You may need to add more memory or buy additional storage hardware. Complex renderings require a large amount of memory and space. You will be doing a lot of modeling and rendering so be prepared by having enough memory and storage space available to you.
A feature rich software package is the second item you will need to design 3D animations. One of the fastest growing areas within the field of computer animation is software. As the technology behind computer hardware simplifies, animation software is constantly improved to keep up with projects which in turn are becoming more complex. For the animator, this means that there is a vast variety of software to choose from. Just as in the case of the computer hardware, the animator should become familiar with the limitations and features of the prospective software package he or she intends to purchase. The following list is some of the more popular software titles currently available for 3D animation:
3D Studio Max - This full-featured 3D modeling, animation, rendering and effects package has everything needed to create high-quality content.
Maya - This software package is immensely popular amongst animator's for its 3D modeling, animation, rendering and effects.
Modo 302 - This software package features advanced polygon, subdivision surface, modeling, sculpting, 3D painting, animation and rendering. It has proven itself to the.
E-on's Vue 7 xStream - This software package offers a complete tool set for creating rich and realistic natural environments and integrating them into any professional production pipeline, including 3D Studio Max and Maya.
Blender - Students, hobbyists and professionals can take advantage of this software package for modeling, rigging, animation, rendering, UV unwrapping, shading, physics and particles, imaging and compositing, and real-time 3D/game creation.
The technologies employed to design 3D animation are but tools used to simplify the animation process. Without a skilled artist in the studio, nothing would be designed. Artists need proven, reliable technology in order to design the awesome 3D animations of tomorrow.
3D animations design requires a depth of knowledge. Some of it artistic in nature, while the rest highly technical and specific to the field. There are literally millions of sources to get information on the topic of 3D animations design. Here is more on the topic Design 3D Animations.
Justin L. Sternad
Squidoo Lensmaster
Category:
Animation
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