Expert: Andre Hickman - 12/17/2005

Question
Dear Andre Hickman,
I am very interested in learning how to animate from nothing using 3D or 4D or whatever that exists. So I can try to make some animated cartoons, films, videos, etc. with my computer. I shall be glad towards your help.
Best Regards,
Robert Maxwell

Answer
Great Robert!

That is the only way to do it...JUMP IN HEAD FIRST.  I will tell you this though, you do have a long road ahead.  Even some of the simplest animations require months of design time, and even years to develop the skill set to create the design.  But I will tell you this--IT IS NOT IMPOSSIBLE!!!

I am self taught, although I do have an engineering background, where I was introduced to CAD.  What you need to first do is research the softwares out there (i.e. Maya, Lightwave, 3D Studio MAX, etc.) to see which way you may want to go first.  I, myself, am a 3D Studio Max guru, but I actually started understanding animation concepts using POSER and BRYCE 3D.  I think that if you are wanting to do things  like character animation, then you should try to get your hands on POSER (look it up on the web) and start there.  It has built in models and animation systems that will help you understand animation concepts such as keyframing and posing, and material mapping, although on a very simple level.  

If you need any other suggestiions, or have any more questions, please feel free to ask.  Like I said, I applaud your desire, and if you stick with it, you will consistantly increase your value and confidence in what you can accomplish.

Cheers,
Andre'