critique a noob ^_^

[DigitalCrystal]

"i know my skillz stand in the shadows of giants on this site"

Speaking of shadows, I think your scene could use some :) Check to make sure your light(s) have shadows on. Raytraced shadows are the easiest when first starting out in 3d, but depth map shadows are def nice once you get the hang of them...

The scene is fairly simple, but that's good, there is a lot you can learn from this.

You're using a proceedural material for the geometry, nothing wrong with that, except it's just that. I would suggest checking out some UV mapping tutorials. If you're using max, it's UVW mapping. All apps have help docs, so you may want to try there too. But basically, this will get you started in the right direction. They'll help you 'paint' dirt and other imperfections you'll find in real life.

I know you're not too concerned about the modelling, but since I really enjoy modelling, I have a tip for you. 3d edges are super sharp, they are perfect basically. Rarely in nature/man made objects will you ever find something as sharp. My thing when modelling is to make sure to bevel your edges, that'll soften up your geometry and give it a more natural look.

Hope this helps.. :thumbsup:

[stephanmaya]

If you're new to CG, I think it'll be a good idea to mention this to you now. NOTHING in the real workd has sharp edges like that, except for a knife of course. Try BEVEL on your edges to make it a little less sharp. You'll quickly notice the dramatic difference in your CG work if you just pay attention to sharp edges.

HOPE IT HELPS:bounce:
Stephan Naude
stephanmaya@yahoo.com

[MagnumCort]

I remember starting much in the way you are. The aforementioned bevel edges trick is a great one - definitely do that. The roundness of the cylinders of your columns is flatened by the marble texture. Even if you stick with the procedural marble, UV mapping it could help those columns read as round. Try experimenting with some simple lighting setups, too (1 light, 2 lights, 3 point lighting, warm colored lights, cool colored lights, lights at different intensities) Sometimes you can learn a tremendous amount from a very simple scene like this.

Best wishes!

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