tree modeling
 

I would need some hints on modeling a tree. I have to create 10 trees, each based on a real photograph. modeling the woodpart isn´t too tricky but adding all the leaves is.

could there be any way to use a vertex selection or something (maybe with mel) to randomly add all the leaves? if someone has allready done something like that and discovered a good workflow or knows a tool or script plz let me know.

info: those trees will be used for a realtime renderer, so bump and normal maps will be included.

Re: tree modeling
 

MMM, maybe this answer isn`t weird, but, you can use the Veu Xtreme software to made hyper-realistic lands (trees are awesome) with Maya`s link, also can export the object with its respective textures (bump included) or simple, use paint efects

did you mean VUE d'Esprit? paint effects is not very helpful cause I must have full control over shape. I´ll try VUE tho, in case there aren´t just presets but creation tools for the trees that would be great. thx for info!

There are plugins that allow you to create trees automatically and edit their parameters at highend3d.com called the tree plugi. I doubt you could model trees as no two are the same, especially with leaf arrangements.

Paint effects are nice because you can convert them into polygons and what not and use them/play with textures. It's good stuff!

Sparticus