Starting in 3D MAX

[tresD]

Hello everyone

 

This has probably been posted before but I will ask it anyways. I'm coming from Macintosh into the PC world. I have a background in modeling with Vectorworks, texturing and rendering with Art-Lantis or just using Form-z to do it all. For those who don't know these programs I just can't say they have really good final results. I was always stuned with PC generated CG works.

 

Well now I have the chance since I switched to PC and I'm learning AutoCad Architectural 2004.

 

But the question is: how do I satrt with Max? Should I import a model from Form-Z and them start to work textures and lights? Or should I just import the 2D file and model everything in Max? I would really apreciate if you could direct me to some tutorials for modeling architectural models in Max or how to start ( I mean, really start, from the preparation of the file in the CAD software to be exported till the organizing of the newly imported file in Max ) working with a file modeled outside MAX. I think I'm looking for the specific tips and tricks that are in all the process of working with Architectural models.

 

Hope I'm not asking too much.

Thx for your time guys.

[nisus]

Hi TresD,

 

I suggest you get a book from www.newriders.com and read it It's a good way to get a quick introduction to workflow etc.

 

rgds

 

nisus

[Jonny English]

Hi There

 

I was in the same situation. I was using Vectorworks and Artlantis and have since changed to using 3DS Max because I wanted to take my work to the next level of quality. Now I work soley in Max, but I am still in the very early stages...and need to learn a lot about this vast program. However when I see the results it makes me wants to learn as quickly as possible. I don't know whether it's best to use CAD and Max or just Max, but I decided I wanted to become an expert on Max, so I decided to concentrate on this (I import 2 CAD drawings by others as a base).

 

The 2 books that got me started were 'Mastering Autodesk Viz' and 3DS Max Fundamentals, both have an emphasis on the built environment.

Hope this is of some help. I too would like to hear other opinions.