In this class, the art direction process for motion graphics in a feature film production pipeline is revealed. Motion Graphics Art Director for James Cameron's Avatar, Neil Huxley, takes a step-by-step guide from creative brief, conceptualization and design in Illustrator and Photoshop through to animation in After Effects.
Some of the topics that will be covered include: creating a workflow that allows for creative freedom and clear communication, quick iterations for client approvals, creating a graphics bible, and setting up clean After Effects comps which allow for client feedback revisions. This masterclass will take you through every step of the art direction process.

In this tutorial, Scott Spencer shows a professional workflow for creature design using Pixologic ZBrush and Adobe Photoshop, using ZBrush to develop ideations on a creature head. Attention is given to design, shape relationships, physiology, and character.
This character sculpture is taken to a finish using quick sculpting techniques Scott has developed to help in creating dynamic character designs under tight deadlines. The sculpture is then rendered and exported to Photoshop where a final pass of color and atmosphere is applied to tie the design together into a cohesive whole, ready for presentation to a director.

This class covers real-world construction of motion picture style props, miniatures and practical effects gags. This course will cover all aspects of bringing an idea out of your head, to creating something with your own hands that is truly interactive.
Production steps include concept design, pre-production, multi-material application/allocation, engineering design and application, shop safety, base formation, machining, fabrication and alternatives, nernies and grebles, mold making, gadgets, gags, paint/faux finishes and other "weird science" tricks of the trade.
Independent filmmakers looking to build cost-effective props will benefit from this rare glimpse at a master's process and techniques.

Alex Sandri will introduce the new Mental Ray 3.8 Environment Lighting (IBL) and Progressive Rendering (PR) features, used in conjunction with the Physical Sky, the Mia Portal Light, Final Gathering, Global Illumination, Importons and Irradiance Particles features. Alex will also be sharing how to use the new Iray Rendering Engine in conjunction with the Progressive Rendering sampler algorithm.