Learning Blender 3D: Setting Goals
I am currently working on an project that entails creating a digital textbook with interactive text, images, videos, and 3D animations. I decided to take this opportunity to broaden my skills set into 3D content creation, which is a nessesary progression for anyone branding themselves as an editor.
A friend of mines introduced me to BLENDER–an open source 3D content creation suite. My other options are Maya (Autodesk), 3ds Max (Autodesk), and Cinema 4D (Maxon)–all of which are priced from $650 – $3,700. I think that Blender is a wise choice considering my experience level, plus there is a good amount of training resources available on their education & help page.
The best way to learn is to create a set of goals, so I created a rough list of steps to work from. Since I am a beginner, I welcome any advice on learning how to create in 3D.
Here is my list so far:
- Download the latest version of Blender.
- Browse the interface. Poke around. See where the tools are located.
- Find beginner tutorials in books and on websites. (e.g, Youtube, Blender 3D: Noob to Pro, Blender For Dummies)
- Advance to intermediate tutorials.
- Come up with an animation to create. (i.e, a 3D version of my professional logo)
- Continue to learn. Conquer the steep learning curve by regular practice and lots of tutorials.
