PDA

View Full Version : Some Noob questions...

Maleficant
06-01-2010, 02:20 AM
Okay, so it's been a few years (3 or 4) since I even opened a 3D modeling program since back in University, and I wanted to get into 3D Environment modeling to hopefully pursue a career.

I had a few real simple questions that are going to make me look like a big idiot though....

I am using Maya 2011 and things have changed a bit since I last played this game.

1) When I have an object in my viewport, I can figure out how to assign a Material easy... HOWEVER... I want to assign textures that I have made in Photoshop to my object/material, if that makes sense. So not just a basic color, an actual "File > Upload" image. Where is this?!? Can't find it anywhere.

2) Is there any way to make the Grid in the viewport bigger? Like for it to cover more area/expand?

3) When I'm modeling with Maya, does it matter how big/small (in other words, scale) I make an item, as long as it's to scale with everything else. Like is there somewhere I designate how big my viewport area actually is, or how wide the grid actually is. Just would rather know this now than get into the habit of not doing it, and then model something immaculate but have it be the size of a thumbtack.

4) Any basic tutorial sites, and I mean BASIC, where they have video tutorials that I can just run through a few times to get used to the Interface/basic concepts again? For Maya 2011? Haven't found much since its so new... :(

Thanks all.
Sorry I'm a noob. Give me a few months and I'll impress you.

Mal
Dare-o
06-01-2010, 05:25 AM
1. Select object > hold down right click > scroll down to 'Assign new material'

In the material attributes, click the materials 'Color' checkerbox, choose file, then go and find your texture/image.

2. Display > Grid 'option box' > Adjust size to whatever units you want.

3. Preferences > settings > Adjust yard/foot/inch/cm/mm

4. I don't think you need any specific tutorials for modeling in 2011, its pretty much the same as any other maya version.

Theres plenty of basic tutorials on youtube and google.
Maleficant
06-01-2010, 06:55 AM
Thank you so much for the replies. You have answered all of my questions precisely!

However, for number 1, there must be something different in Maya 2011?
I knew to get that far in selecting a texture as that has always been the same and is mostly common sense, but when I click the checkerbox, I only have the option to choose pre-existing things with categories like 'cloth', 'water', 'mountain', 'ramp'... you get the point.

It seems there is no "Upload" area?
If I double click the color BOX, with the actual color in it, it allows me to upload a file, but then I can only pull a color from that uploaded file so that is not what I am looking for.

Anyone got a clue? It's very odd.
Dare-o
06-01-2010, 06:58 AM
Hm, that is a bit odd, are you sure your under the 2d textures tab? If all else fails, try reseting your preferences. Other than that I have no clue, seems to work fine in 2010. :shrug:
Kev3D
06-01-2010, 07:03 AM
I don't have 2011 yet but this is how it should work: when you click a checker box, all the icons that look like little mountains are file nodes. You can choose 'File' or 'PSD' from the list. When you select one of those, click the little folder icon and select you file.

I don't know if it's fixed in 2011 but my understanding is that Maya has real trouble working in anything except it's native units (cm I believe). Scene size does become important if you're using physically accurate lights.
SkunkSpray21
06-02-2010, 11:23 AM
Here are some really great Maya 2011 video tutorials from cannedmushrooms on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/user/cannedmushrooms#grid/user/F3E8C00791AEC3F8

Check out his channel for other awesome 3d modeling / game development videos!
Maleficant
06-02-2010, 03:03 PM
Guys thank you so much for the great replies. I'll have a look at those tutorials when I'm off work and see if they can get me started on remembering the basics!

I also figured out how to upload the texture! There is indeed a 'PSD File' option under the 2D Textures category when I follow the instructions above. Somewhat more difficult to find than it should be but... I know it's there now at least. Now to remember how to actually texture things so they don't overlap and repeat over and over :argh:

Thanks again for the replies. I'll keep that in mind about the lighting/measurement problems, however most of my stuff will be for 3D game environments so not sure that will affect me.
CGTalk Moderation
06-02-2010, 03:03 PM
This thread has been automatically closed as it remained inactive for 12 months. If you wish to continue the discussion, please create a new thread in the appropriate forum.