Our team was recently approached by a prospective University client to develop a 3D animation related to their current research project. To refresh and improve our team’s 3D modelling skills, Jackie enrolled in the Lynda.com course ‘Blender Essential Training’.
This eight-hour course provides an overview of modeling, animating, and rendering 3D graphics in the open-source software Blender. It shows you how to create and edit basic objects, work with modifiers and subdivision surfaces, and apply materials and textures. The course also demonstrates lighting 3D scenes, setting up and using cameras, animating objects, and assembling basic character rigs.
Within a few weeks Jackie was able to render a pretty faithful digital replica of the client’s specialised laboratory equipment. We then published this model on our service’s Sketchfab account to make sharing and embedding extremely easy.
Lastly, Jackie hosted a private one-hour Blender workshop with the rest of the team. By kindly sharing her expertise we all successfully completed 3D models of a traditional Orcadian Bride’s Cog she brought from home for inspiration.
Self-paced learning
Jackie’s prototype
Further information
Blender is a free and open-source software program for 3D modeling, animation, and rendering. Downloads are available for macOS, Windows and Linux.
Lynda.com is an online skills development service offering an extensive library of high quality video courses in digital, technology, creative and business skills. The University has recently procured a three-year campus-wide licence for use by staff and students.