Fluid dynamics are rapidly becoming a powerful alternative to particle effects. In the first lecture of this series, effects animator David Schoneveld introduces you to the rules of fluid production, showing how Maya Fluid Effects can be used for everything from smoke, dust and explosions, to underwater plane crashes and more. David details the fluid menu, emitter and container attributes, as well as shading and texturing, while conveying an understanding of the dynamic attributes of fluid dynamics and their uses in production. The lesson also details the basics of ponds, emphasizing an understanding of the fluid shader and texture controls.
Menu and Options Animation Techniques Shading methods
01. Basics + Container Contents Display 02. Dynamic Simulation 03. Content Details 04. Grid Cache and Surface 05. Shading and Shading Quality 06. Texture 07. Lighting 08. Emitters 09. Fluids Menu 10. Smoke Cloud 11. Liquid Flowing Down a Slide 12. Cloud Bank
Click here to view a sample clip from this DVD. Note that while this clip is 640x480 the actual movie size is 1024x768 with higher quality compression . View the stills to the right to see the actual resolution.
David Schoneveld is a Digital FX Artist at Dreamworks Animation in Glendale, CA. He is currently working on Kung Fu Panda, starring Jack Black, scheduled for a Spring 08 release. Prior to Dreamworks, he worked as an FX Animator at Industrial Light and Magic on Pirates of the Carribbean: At Worlds End, which is nominated for an Academy Award for Achievement in Visual Effects.
David began his career as a compositor, which gave him a unique perspective on the integration of fluids and effects into the production pipline. He holds a BA in Integrated Art from The Pennsylvania State University, and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Animation from Ex`pressions Center for New Media. David`s other credits include Ergaon, Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow, The Covenant, The Illusionist and many others.
