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A projection tool allows users to take color and textures from an image and paint them onto their model.
A vector displacement map tool lets users copy and recreate more complex images, including undercuts and overhangs. This can be used to duplicate an image such as an ear, which has spaces between it and the object it is connected to.
For materials, both normal and bump maps can now be viewed at the same time on a model, as opposed to previous versions when a user could only view one at a time. Also, new blending modes allow for non-destructive edits to paint layers, including editing lightening, contrast, darkening, and so on.
MotionBuilder 2011 has also received a few enhancements, including features that help it work better into the overall production pipeline. Most of the work done is fine tuning, such as better consistency in handling materials and better integration with other applications.
By running calculations skinning and blendshape deformations on the GPU, playback of skinned characters is much faster. It can handle materials better, and there are also improvements to the story tool, which makes it more stable.
In a Nutshell
If you use the applications for work, the upgrade is a definite. A new interface, tools to eliminate problems in older versions, and other tools to streamline the workflow add up into what could save time and money during a job.
For Mac users, the 64-bit support will also make a big difference in terms of how well the applications utilize the power of the computer—resulting in faster load times and less lag while working, particularly when working with large files.
For hobbyists and those interested in learning 3-D animation and rendering, Maya ECS is a great place to start, since it provides all the tools for the job. There is a pretty high learning curve with such applications, but not so high to make it unusable for users with enough interest to follow a few tutorials. Also an inexpensive app, which is a good place for beginners to start is Cheetah 3D.
Up there with Maya is Cinema 4D, and similar to Mudbox is ZBrush, which are both great applications. The benefits of the Maya ECS, however, are that the user ends up paying less for each application, and the way in which the applications sync with one another, although both ZBrush and Cinema 4D include features for syncing between applications.
Users on a budget or beginners could consider Blender, which is a free, open source application for 3-D rendering, animation, and which even includes tools for making video games. However, the application is difficult to use and its interface is a bit distant from the conventional 3-D creative application.
Price: $4,995
Website: www.autodesk.com
4.5 / 5