@Raffaele, I agree. I learn best when I have a goal to achieve. In fact,
I learned Houdini for a specific goal "on the job" and even switched
from Maya to 3ds Max many years ago due to a projects requirements.
I must admit, having lurked around the mailing list for a while, I
expected more of you to try to convert me to Softimage ;P
@Sylvain
Render elements (i.e: beauty, spec, diffuse, reflection, ect) are great
in Max. Render layers on the other hand are complete crap. Thankfully I
use a plugin for managing render layers which makes the job a lot easier.
I would consider switching to rendering in Softimage completely for
Arnold alone, but alas being a lonely freelance artist I can't see it
happening anytime soon.
I feel I know Max too well, and am too used to its workflow that it
makes me "scared" to switch applications completely for all stages of
production. As I've said, I mainly focus on VFX so all I have learned in
3ds Max would get thrown out the window if I switched. I think 3ds Max
and Houdini will be my "go to" applications for particles and dynamics
for quite some time.
Even with Vray in Softimage, there are certain features I would miss
from Max. Particularly VrayRT which is great when trying to light a
scene. I know Softimage will be getting it, so I may check it out when
the time comes.
Currently using animated .obj sequences, .fbx or realflows .bin format
for exchange between Max and Houdini depending on the data type. I'm
looking towards Exocortexs alembic implementation, but haven't had time
to test it out yet.
Just want to say too: My project is designed as a learning experience. I
have never used a full motion capture workflow before, so the purpose of
this project is to put that into practice through to final delivery.
