[GET] Digital Tutors – Environment Modeling Concepts in 3ds Max

In this series of 3ds Max tutorials, we will discuss the concepts, techniques, and tools involved in modeling props, environments, and sets.

When building computer generated models for games, film, or broadcast, believable environments, props, and sets are a vital component. The environment sets the stage for the story to play out and can be comprised of hundreds of assets organized into multiple set pieces. Props and environment models are more forgiving regarding their topology because they rarely need to deform. They do present their own challenges however. In this course we will talk about some of those specific challenges environment modelers will face as they start out.

We’ll talk about different modeling methods and how our approach to smoothing the models affects the workflow we use. We’ll also talk about cleaning our assets and creating an organized hierarchy within our scenes. We’ll also cover some modeling tips like using modifiers or breaking down repeated objects into manageable sections.

In the end you’ll have a head start on creating and dressing your own environment models and sets.