Niche Software Profiles: ZBrush, Renderman, and SoftImage (CSI)
There is a wide variety of 3D animation software at use in the industry. Here are three lesser-known programs that some animators swear by.
ZBrush, called a "hybrid" in the 3D animation industry, provides software solutions for a variety of production areas: modeling, 2D painting, 3D texturing, and more. What distinguishes ZBrush from other software programs is its use of "Pixols." A Pixol is similar to a pixel, but here's the difference: pixels contain RGB color information. Pixols contain RGB information as well, but also XYZ, rotation, material, and lighting information. Think of them as pixels all grown up.
ZBrush is also a tool highly sought after for 3D modeling. Many film and animation feature animators use ZBrush to model objects and figures, especially human figures.
Another software favorite among a niche of industry animators is Renderman, software created by Pixar for the development of its popular animation features. The goals of Renderman are to render large scenes of animation, quickly, reliably, and at a high quality. Its specialties are shadowing, blurring, depth of field -- effective space-manipulation tools that create the realism in 3D animation. Renderman is used almost exclusively by film animators.
A third, lesser-known 3D animation tool is called SoftImage, or XSI. Known for its excellent "ghosting" tools (viewing animation before and after certain frames to evaluate motion), SoftImage offers "relational views" when working within modified panels. Dual monitor window viewing, new paint and rendering tools, and simulation are also features of SoftImage (XSI).
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| University of Phoenix |
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| University Canada West - Online |
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Are you looking to improve your career opportunities and prepare for a brighter future? University Canada West, located in beautiful Victoria, can help you achieve your goals. At University Canada West, you'll not only get a rigorous academic education and the chance to develop the skills that today's leading employers look for, but you'll also be able to complete a four-year degree program in as little as just two years—so you can get on with your life, and your career, sooner. Choose from a variety of career-focused academic programs, including Technology Management, Media and Communications, Economics, Geography, and more.
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Bachelor Media and Communication
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| Globe University - Online |
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Get the career training you need to reach your personal and professional goals at Globe University. We provide a real-world education that emphasizes hands-on training in small classes taught by instructors who are professionals in their fields. Choose from a variety of master's, bachelor's, associate, and diploma programs in the fields of business, health, legal, IT, and creative.
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BS in Media Business
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| Ellis University - Online |
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BS - Information Technology (Interactive Multimedia)
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| Colorado Technical University Online |
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Take your career to new heights with Colorado Tech Online! Since 1965, Colorado Technical University has helped thousands of students achieve success in business, management and technology careers. Learn more today.
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Master of Business Administration - Mediation and Dispute Resolution
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| Champlain College Graduate Studies - Online |
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Give your career a boost with an education from Champlain College Graduate Studies. Champlain has been closely aligned with the business community since the College’s founding in 1878. Many of Champlain’s faculty members are practicing professionals who fuel their instruction with relevance straight from the business world. This entrepreneurial spirit — and its attendant knowledge, experience, and expertise — adds a significant depth and breadth to the education of all of Champlain’s graduate students.
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Master of Science in Mediation & Applied Conflict Studies
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| AIU Online |
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AIU Online is a great choice for your education. We support your success every step of the way, with programs designed to fit your learning style and your schedule.
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Bachelor's (BFA) - Digital Design
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