How does one learn how to make 3d models?

[Pascucci the Whiner]

  I've always had an interest in someday making 3d models and contributing to th FH community someday. How do you learn how to make them? I know it is very hard and takes alot of learning and practice.

Thanks,
Arisaka99

[Dukat]

Why, oh Lord, why do I feel like answering?
Well, I guess the first step would be to obtain some 3d modelling software. The better the software, the more expensive it is. You can end up with software worth a few thousand dollars.

Of course I got no clue what the Devs are using, though I guess they might tell you.

The only 3d modelling software I know which you can obtain for free is gmax which has been discontinued in 2005 and is therefor available for download. All you need is to register at their site in order to achieve an activation key.  Maybe that is a good startup to learn the ropes of modelling.

http://www.turbosquid.com/gmax

[Rataxes]

I think 3DS Max or Maya are the most common. But learning to model isn't that hard. Just read tutorials and model stuff and you will learn quickly.

I can post a good link to a tutorial page if it's allowed.

[Coca-Cola]

The posting of tutorials is forbidden and will lead to static-electricity torture...yes it's very annoying.

[Seth_Soldier]

check the modding section and here a specfic thread for weapons (it can be applied for other model)

http://fhpubforum.warumdarum.de/index.php?topic=281.0

[Pascucci the Whiner]

OK, I'm looking to purchase some 3d modeling software, but I don't have a ton of money. What should I do?

[Ionizer]

Officially, we cannot tell you to get it through other channels on this forum.  Or else many people get in trouble.

So I'm not telling you to pirate it.  But if you happen to do it anyway, I didn't tell you not to do it, either.

[Killi Vanilli]

Most 3D packages have at least a 30-Day trial if you want to get your feet wet an do some tutes. I guess Maya PLE (free Personal Learning Edition) is no longer officially available, but I bet you could find a download rolling around somewhere. Only limitation I am aware of is a watermark on renders.

If you are in school of any kind, consider an educational version. These are usually 15-20% the cost of a commercial license.

[Lobo]

http://www.flightsim.com/main/howto/gmax.htm

This easy tutorial has almost all the basics of modeling

[Oddball]

One never learns to model, it's only a talent a lucky few are born with.  J/king.. 

[Torenico]

http://www.flightsim.com/main/howto/gmax.htm

This easy tutorial has almost all the basics of modeling

Oh that tutorial!

Actually i made part of that P38


But dont forget skinning, theres a nice skinning tutorial on Fenring website.

And dont forget coding... hmm, yeah forget coding

[Admiral Donutz]

*moved from OT to Modding forum*

[Pascucci the Whiner]

Can I make models compatible with FH2 with Gmax?

[Paasky]

You can export as .3ds IIRC. Then import into 3dsmax.

I learned modeling in gmax, made a Saturn V-ish rocket. And part of the P-38 tutorial. And then moved to 3dsmax at some point.

[Pascucci the Whiner]

3dsmax costs something like $4000 doesn't it?