Introduction to Maya - Modeling Fundamentals Vol 1
This course will look at the fundamentals of modeling in Maya with an emphasis on creating good topology. We'll look at what makes a good model in Maya and why objects are modeled in the way they are.
# 1 04-12-2005 , 04:02 PM
mtmckinley's Avatar
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TGAGTM: Calamity Jane

Work is underway for my new book: The Game Animator's Guide to Maya. Right now, I'm working on the featured model of the project, a cowgirl character. I figured I'd let you guys follow along with the progress of it. user added image

Here's the concept art drawn by my good buddy Steve Garcia, the same guy who did the concept for my first book.

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And here's what's been done so far:

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So, still very early.

There is no real polycount I'm going for, but I'm hoping to keep in in the 15,000 poly range.

# 2 04-12-2005 , 04:46 PM
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wow great drawing.!
So tell me mike is it easier to get into the games industry rather than other fields of 3d stuff. (stuff been the only word i can think of as other jobs...lol)

# 3 04-12-2005 , 04:54 PM
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I don't know, as I've not attempted to enter other fields. I would think it would be easier than, say, film effects work, though, predominanty because the vast majority of film effects studios (at least, in the USA) are located in California, which makes sense, seeing as Hollywood is there. Game studios, though, are spread out across the country a little more (although there are 'hubs' in California, Washington, and Texas where there are a good number close to proximity to each other).

# 4 04-12-2005 , 05:32 PM
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Agreed, the concept looks really nice user added image
But wow this is great, Mike. Looks like it's going to be another awesome book. I'll definitely be looking forward to its release!

# 5 04-12-2005 , 05:47 PM
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yeah i think ill be asking "santa" hahah for a lot of things from here, this site really can bring the best out of you.
keep up the good work.

# 6 04-12-2005 , 06:03 PM
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Wow. Looks awsome mate. Ill have to pick this one up as well!

I really enjoyed the last one!


Cheers mate! user added image


Imagination is more important than knowledge.
# 7 04-12-2005 , 06:14 PM
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be sure to show wires too. user added image

# 8 04-12-2005 , 06:46 PM
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Thanks, guys. user added image

Here ya go:

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# 9 04-12-2005 , 06:55 PM
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hey mike, great progress. your model looks quite promising so far..
nice to finally see a WIP by you..

user added image

# 10 04-12-2005 , 09:00 PM
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Thanks, utpal. I dont' post many WIPs because I can't post stuff I do at work until I get permission, and by then, it's usually Finished Work (posted one up earlier today).

Working on that coat:
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# 11 04-12-2005 , 09:27 PM
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really nice!no word...looking foward to see your final model.
by the way, can you show the wire of his back because i try to learn how to place edges in the back of my character.
keep it up.
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# 12 04-12-2005 , 10:04 PM
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Hey Mike

About time you posted again. This design looks very cool, The drawing itself was enough to make me wanna drop everything and build her , but in Hi res.

I think youve made a cool start with the character so far, I love this type of thing anyway so I'll be hanging on this thread.

best regards
Jay

# 13 04-12-2005 , 10:52 PM
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Thanks again, fellas. user added image

First pass at some hair. Not sure if this is the configuration I'll go with just yet.

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And wire:

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# 14 04-12-2005 , 11:24 PM
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YEE-HAW!!! Neat neat neat! The collar is my favorite part so far. I can't wait to see this textured. You are gonna texture her aren't ya?

Guess I'd better make room on my bookshelf!

Dave

# 15 04-12-2005 , 11:31 PM
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Great Concept Drawing by Steve Garcia user added image and love the modelling progress too. Thanks for sharing the progress Mike.

Cheers
Paul

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