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Hi there.

Ok, here is the problem.

I need to create a Hybrid type creature for a university project in 3D Max. I am looking for some tutorials on the basic or how to get started, I have managed to find one but the person didn't really explain it in detail.

How would I start this creation off? Could I actually scan the creation I drew into 3D Max and continue from there so that the actual model is done and all I need to do is render it abit and so fourth?

I really need help with this as I am pulling my hair out.

Much appreciated.
Neale.

The best way would be to sketch the creature out, scan it and import a front and side view onto two image planes within 3dsmax. Then you start modelling the basic shape of the creature by extruding \ moving polygons and vertices from primitives and add more detail as you progress.

Well using the drawing tool and nurbs to mesh work better for me

@Onlyone. Thanks for the advice, now when you say import a front and side view, does that mean I have to sketch both front and side view of the actual creature?

Sorry I am very new to this but I presume that when I import the drawing into 3D Max, it will appear as a normal textureless outline of the creature, obviously to correct the outline, add in detail etc.. I need to go into wire frame? Is there any tutorial that shows how to do this?

@Wizard, sorry mate but I haven't got a clue what you're saying there

I have also just gone onto http://www.Kalahari.net and I found quite a few books regarding 3DS Max. Could you maybe show me which book is best to get.

Ok I found this one, perhaps I should buy it. http://www.kalahari.net/books/Introduci ... 56666.aspx

NealeDeadlyAlien wrote:@Onlyone. Thanks for the advice, now when you say import a front and side view, does that mean I have to sketch both front and side view of the actual creature?

Sorry I am very new to this but I presume that when I import the drawing into 3D Max, it will appear as a normal textureless outline of the creature, obviously to correct the outline, add in detail etc.. I need to go into wire frame? Is there any tutorial that shows how to do this?

@Wizard, sorry mate but I haven't got a clue what you're saying there

Lol don't blame u not to worry you will get there.If however I can make a suggestion search youtube for video tutorials much much better than a book seeing is better than reading for stuff like this, a book is just to keep and around for reference....

Thanks Wizard, however I'm sorry to say but I have watched quite a few tutorials and I get disappointed every time.

Reason being is that, these guys go so fast that you can't see what he is doing, half the time he is using short cut keys which is not very helpful if you're new and don't know what the keys are etc.. I prefer a typed out tutorial with pictures demonstrating what to do and where to go.

I tried it a year and a half ago when I was new to Photoshop and watching tutorials got me nowhere, so I eventually started searching for well illustrated type out tutorials with pictures and because of some useful tutorials, I can do some reasonable concept art but I still need a few techniques to help me improve.

So yeah! 3D Max is a new cattle of fish to me and sometimes using this program, I feel like I am building a component for the international space station, its so complicated

Thanks for the encouragement though, I am sure I'll get there eventually.

WTH is a cattle of fish? - The Rat

maybe have a look at this 1:

http://www.3dtotal.com/ffa/tutorials/ma ... anmenu.php

modelling from a sketch will be difficult if you have no/little 3DSM knowledge.
even more so if you cannot/haven't produced a sketch with proper front/side/rear views.