First time modelling - guidance please

[Nosher]

As the subject said, I would like to try and create some custom models for my next TF2 Map (after me and Stinky get through with Call2Arms AND I can talk him into approaching the new idea as a joint venture!)

So - what software would be best?

I have some photochop skills (although they are considered 'unique' in some circles....:blink::D)

Tutorials? Any for the software you recommend?

I also want to create some custom textures also - software recommendations?

Many thanks in advance
Nosh.

[AWESOME-O]

Custom textures,

Ehm i would recommend photoshop, and download the vtf plugin (http://nemesis.thewavelength.net/index.php?c=154)
Also i use my Table to create custom textures, tablets draw really nice, Like Youme said:
Drawing with your mouse is just like Cutting your own heart out and use that to draw. Wich is possible 1, if you are a anime character because they got tons of blood or 2 if you have 2 hearts

[Spike]

Yeah for pictures use photoshop. And for modelling use XSI Mod Tool, it's the free version of the software Valve use and it has a Valve plugin for exporting the models.

[timberghost_paintball]

Blender and Wings3d are opensource 3d paskages that you could use. I believe you can export an .obj from there to xsi modtool to get it into the engine (eventually). I don't use either since I'm a maya guy but I've heard wings3d has a really small learning curve, of course compared to maya everything does.
XSI mod tool is buggy and annoying but if you put in the effort to learn it you will be able to do what you want. It's probably worth learning in your case. I've never used it for more than the conversion process and even that was an extraordinary pain involving missing plugins and all sorts of messes.

anyways good luck

[Spike]

I've always used XSI and I have never had a bug, the official page has videotutorials so it's easy to learn.

[oxy]

I use Photoshop for textures. If you prefer a free option look into Gimp.

For modeling and laying out UV's I use Maya then take my model into XSI Mod Tool for the exporting process.

If you are just starting out I would say get a copy of 2-3 different softwares and play with each of them for about an hour then stick with the one you feel most comfortable with.

If you plan on doing a lot of 3d in other areas I would go with Maya, otherwise, any of the above mentioned should work.

[TotalMark]

Paint.net (http://www.getpaint.net/)
Paint.Net VTF Plug-In (http://nemesis.thewavelength.net/index.php?p=50)

It's just like photoshop and it's 100% free.

I cut my teeth on Wings 3D (http://www.wings3d.com/), but if you're serious you should try the XSI mod tool (http://www.softimage.com/products/modtool/). It's the only app designed to use for these games, so you should at least D/L it. I've only modeled static props but if you're going into animated ones than XSI is a must have.

[efciem]

you will find as many people suggesting 3d applications in a variety of options.. as you would find people that prefer blonde's to brunettes...


I use 3dsmax , Zbrush and Photoshop for all my stuff..

Love em all to death.


Free 3d modeling option #1 pick would be XSI mod tool,
2nd would be blender..


blender is more powerful.. but its pretty different in the way it functions on a UI/workflow process then XSI , 3dsmax , maya etc..


So If you think 3d modeling is something you'll continue to do.. and to a greater extent in a more in depth use... I would start with XSI mod tool, then move onto purchasing a 3d application like the full blown Softimage XSI , Maya or 3dsmax.

all will get the job done..


3dsmax is tried and true in the game industry, Softimage xsi is right up there... but person to person support for it might be lacking unless you can find a reliable forum to post your questions..

3dsmax you'll find alot more of a user base for help with.