Hello everyone.  Many of you know that I have struggled with many of the simpler functions of 3d animation.  (Interfaces and meshes to be the biggest).  I finally got my first real model done (merged head with another body and painted).  A fellow forum member got me turned on to 3DCoat.  Thanks Vidi!  I promised another I would try Substance painter as well.  3DCoat is awesome and does very high quality stuff.  It is so much more than painting, so I am leaving this out there for new IClone users about Substance Painter.

People told me it was more advanced and I should wait to use it.  After struggling with that character for a month and 3DCoat painting seeming like I would retain it, I gave Substance Painter a try.  All I can say is wow!  This is the most simple 3D Program I have used so far.  Texturing was amazing and the output of various maps is impressive.  They give you several options based upon the animation or gaming platform you are working with.

The maps being labeled for our animation systems would have helped me earlier on especially.  This is a new persons dream and I do not think I could ever give this program up.  I made 3D lettering for my first video.  I played around with the different texturing options and just threw something together.  I told everyone here that I would probably not get into quality work right now.  WOW, I impressed myself with this program and ten minutes being in it.  My first render in Iclone and I am still about to stroke about how well those letters came out and the video in general.  I assumed IClone was lower quality after seeing some people note some of its limitations.  This looked better than a Pixar film!  (Not being cocky about my work, I still don't know what the hell I am doing and it was an intro video 11seconds).  I didn't think it was going to produce so well and realized that it was in quick mode and lower quality.  

I truly think Substance Painter would be great for anyone new to 3D and IClone and that is not looking to do mesh work.  The only issue I had was with the lack of control of painting the maps or on models.  I forgot that I also did a whole model on there.  It took me quite a bit more time than 3D Coat.  I have not tried masking yet in either.  3DCoat does have a nicer "fill" system.  Overall, both are great programs, but I thought I would share my experience for others.  Both have Black Friday specials right now and heavily discounted.  Also, please don't beat your head like I did and thinking your in Iclone is how it will come out looking.  You will be shocked!




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