3D beginner tutorial using Bryce

Complete beginner? No problem... here’s a simple way to get started

This article is mainly aimed at Bryce users and uses a step-by-step tutorial on how to import models into Bryce, then use those models to create an interesting and dynamic composition. Consequently this will give you some basic knowledge in how to produce impressive artwork quickly and easily. You will also find that having a graphics software package such as Adobe Photoshop, or something similar that has an airbrush tool among it’s features, will be a definite advantage to add the finishing touches to your artwork.

Most of the techniques we use here can easily be adapted by 3D artists and modelers using other programs, providing they are familiar with the software being used.

So let’s begin with a simple composition using a couple of models which you can download from the 3D Models page which is linked to above. Whether you prefer to use .lwo or .3ds models it makes no difference.

Here’s the finished picture that we intend to produce.

The first step in creating any design is to have an idea. If you prefer, you can roughly sketch out your design first on a plain sheet of paper. Alternatively, you can experiment by importing suitable 3D models and arrange them in various ways. This simple method can often fire your imagination and help you produce some interesting designs through trial and error. Unless I have a specific idea and composition in mind, this is the method I use to help me find new ideas.

In this tutorial I have imported an X-wing model, which is available in the 'Spaceraft models extension pack'. You can use an alternative model if you wish, but I chose this model because of the material I have in mind to map on to the model.

First choose or make a folder on your hard drive where you can save the model you want to download. Then go to the 3D Models download page and select a tall structure which will suit this design. I have chosen the 'Turret skyscraper 3' model.

Save this model to the same folder on your hard drive then go to next page... GETTING STARTED