ZBrushCentral

Need help on stepping into the world of animation

Community
#1

Hello,

I have always wanted to become a 3d model/animator, though I did not get too far when I went to college with it due to financial reasons. I barely scratched the surface when I finally got into the part of the program that touched actual animation. Now I am more motivated than ever to finally begin on my own. I just need help on finding the proper resources and references as far as how to get started. As far as programs, I have Maya and ZBrush. I just need to find tutorials on how to get started on educating myself to learn these programs well enough to start practicing, thus eventually taking on projects, which will then lead to coming up with a portfolio, and eventually with all the time and effort, hopefully lead into some sort of career. So I come here to ask you guys where I can begin this long journey to become an animator/modeler. Any websites that have helped any of you self-taught animators, any books, anything to get me going. I pretty much know close to nothing on how to use these programs. But I do have the passion and drive necessary to begin this, I just need a little guidance.

Thanks in advance

EDIT: I just came across http://www.digitaltutors.com though it is $45 a month. Anyone know if it is worth it?

#2

Digital Tutors.

#3

I just came across 3Dbuzz now which i hear is like digital tutors, but cheaper and more in depth. Any opinions on which is better?

#4

Opinion based on my own knowledge of circumstances from years ago (things change rapidly).
You mention a priority of animation, let us drop Zbrush from the discussion.
Although this is their site and it is a marvelous program, it is not an animation program, Maya is.
So you are looking to get the best education you can in Maya.
Ideally you go to a school with an established reputation in this area, Gnomon for instance.
Lots of bucks, you must be in California, etc, so we rule that out.
Schools in your area, am guessing no to this.
A possibility is working as a serf somewhere where they animate and learning that way. Trust me if there is such a place
where you are, there is already a line of people who will work free to get the job
Books and/or tutorials.
Books are in abundance for Maya and animation, it is a cottage industry…
Since Maya hasn’t really changed that much, older and second hand books can be gotten cheap.
Tutorials…Digital Tutors have been around for awhile, they have a proven track record.
Although pricey, for a years membership you can basically take tutorials in Maya Animation, Dynamics, Rigging, Ncloth etc.
Look over all the courses, come back to the price and you will see it is indeed cheaper in the long run.

Best of luck in whatever you decide and whatever the future holds.
If it is any consolation, believe this , you ain’t alone

#5

thank you for your reply. i did indeed begin a subscription in Digital Tutors. I also plan on using it for ZBrush since it is offering training with that too. Both animation and modeling/sculpturing are my key interests.

#6

Best of luck.