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Raffi Bedross

Updates:

New section: Big scale explosion in Houdini 19

Introduction to explosions in Houdini 19

This is the best selling Visual Effects Course.

  • No presentations No time wasting It's all about doing and creating effects.

  • This Course is Projects based Course so you will learn Houdini by creating effects. .

  • This course is continually updated.

Why you want to learn Houdini FX

Read more

Updates:

New section: Big scale explosion in Houdini 19

Introduction to explosions in Houdini 19

This is the best selling Visual Effects Course.

  • No presentations No time wasting It's all about doing and creating effects.

  • This Course is Projects based Course so you will learn Houdini by creating effects. .

  • This course is continually updated.

Why you want to learn Houdini FX

Houdini FX is a visual effects and 3D animation software like Maya or Blender, but what makes Houdini different and unique is the procedural system and has very powerful dynamic system that other softwares don't have. You will be surprised about that.

Houdini is the number 1 3D application that used in vfx, 3D animation studios and Game studios, Houdini can create high quality effects like water, explosions, fire and sand.

Houdini now is used by Big Game studios, they save 100X of the time by creating tools that are used in their Game Engine or in unreal engine or unity.

Knowing Houdini gives you very big advantage in the Game industry and in VFX companies.

If you are Game developer you must know at least a little bit how Houdini works, this gives you very big advantage in Game studios. In my course I will just teach you how to use Houdini, not teaching you how to use it for games. After you watch my course then you will be able to learn how to use it for games and in game engines like unreal engine or unity. i,e: I will not teach you how to use it for games, I just will teach you Houdini.

This course is very special, I will teach you how to use Houdini software to create interesting effects.I will make it fun to learn and I will simplify every thing for you.

Take the course now and I promise you won't disappointed

Q and A

  1. Is Houdini free software Yes its free for non commercial use, and it called Houdini apprentice.

  2. Is there any limitation in Houdini apprentice No, you Have all the tools that the paid version has ,and you can render your shots too, but the  images output restricted to 1280x720 when rendering.

  3. I am game developer, do I need to learn Houdini Yes, you must at least know a the basics of Houdini.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will learn how to create professional explosions.
  • You will have solid knowledge on how to use houdini.
  • You will learn how to create realistic oceans.
  • You will learn how to create destruction.
  • You will learn how to create full cg chocolate commercial using houdini.
  • You will learn how to make sand and snow effects in houdini.
  • You will learn how to use flip fluid solver inside houdini.
  • You will learn how to make rain effect.
  • And much more....
  • You will fall in love with this software :).

Syllabus

Introduction
Promo Video
Advice for you
Quick Tour
Read more
  1. Alt + left mouse = Tumble

  2. Alt + right mouse = Zoom

  3. Alt + middle mouse = track

  4. Space + G or Space +H to frame the camera

  5. Space + B to split the viewport

In this tutorial you are going to learn how to create objects and navigate in the viewport

In this Houdini tutorial we are going to learn how to link channels.

Understanding what procedural is.

In this lesson we'll take a quick look at Materials inside Houdini and how to use them.

This is your first Houdini Homework :)

In this lesson you will create your first animation inside Houdini.

In this lesson you are going to understand what groups are and how they work in Houdini.

In this lecture I will show what attributes are.

You will learn how to transform attributes from geometry to another geometry.

In this Houdini tutorial we are going to learn how to create spider web.

In this lesson we are going to learn how to create organic shape by using the polyreduce node

I will show you how to create Tornado using gas axis force.

Understand ocio color space inside Houdini

In this video I will show you how to mix 2 colors together in Houdini 19

In this tutorial you are going to understand how RBD work in Houdini

In this lesson we are going to continue working on RBD and understanding the packed primitives.

In this tutorial we are going to learn how to destruct a Wall

In this lesson we are going to use Voronoi to add more details to the wall destruction.

In this lesson I am going to show you some tips that you really need to know.

In this lesson we are going to learn how to use Pin constraint in Houdini

In this lesson we are going to learn how to use the Hinge constraint in Houdini.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches complex visual effects, a highly relevant skill for artists working in visual effects studios
Instructor Raffi Bedross is an acclaimed visual effects specialist, bringing industry knowledge to learners
Covers a comprehensive range of visual effects skills
Emphasizes hands-on learning, crucial for visual effects artists
Requires proficiency in Houdini, which may limit accessibility for beginners
Primarily focuses on visual effects, excluding other aspects of 3D animation

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Reviews summary

Houdini fx: a project-based vfx foundation

According to students, the Complete Houdini FX Bootcamp is a highly effective and project-based course that offers a solid foundation in Houdini for visual effects. Learners consistently praise the instructor's clear and simplified explanations, especially for complex topics, making it accessible even for beginners. The course's focus on practical projects and hands-on application, covering topics like explosions, fluids, and destruction, is frequently highlighted as a major strength. Some more recent reviews indicate continuous updates and improvements, though a few point to certain sections possibly being less detailed or requiring additional self-study for deeper understanding.
Continuously updated, but some content may lag.
"The instructor's commitment to updating the course with new Houdini versions (like H19) is truly commendable and keeps it relevant."
"I appreciate the new sections being added; it shows the course is actively maintained to keep up with software changes."
"While updates are great, a few older lessons could still benefit from a refresh to align with the latest workflows."
"The course stays mostly current, which is critical for software like Houdini that evolves quickly."
Excellent starting point for new Houdini users.
"As someone new to Houdini, this course provided an excellent entry point and didn't overwhelm me."
"I had zero Houdini experience, but this course built my skills step-by-step, making it approachable for a beginner."
"The foundational sections are incredibly helpful for getting comfortable with Houdini's interface and workflow."
"It’s great for beginners and also for those who need a refresher on Houdini fundamentals."
Covers a wide array of essential visual effects techniques.
"I'm impressed by the breadth of topics covered, from pyro to fluids and destruction, it's a great overview of core FX."
"The sections on explosions and rigid body dynamics were particularly strong and well-explained, very useful for portfolio work."
"This bootcamp really lives up to its name, providing a solid foundation in different types of simulations needed for VFX."
"I feel equipped now to create various effects, from sand and snow to complex fluid simulations, thanks to this course."
Instructor simplifies complex Houdini concepts effectively.
"The instructor's explanations are incredibly clear and concise, making even the most daunting aspects of Houdini understandable."
"I found the teacher's method of simplifying advanced topics really beneficial. He explains things in a way that truly clicks."
"He's very good at showing the 'why' behind the nodes, not just the 'how', which is crucial for procedural software."
"The instructor is patient and very thorough, ensuring you grasp the fundamentals before moving on to more complex simulations."
Excellent course structure focused on practical application.
"This course is absolutely amazing for learning Houdini! The approach of teaching through projects really solidified my understanding of various FX concepts."
"I appreciate the project-based format. It's much easier to learn when you're actively creating something rather than just theoretical lessons."
"The instructor does a fantastic job of breaking down complex processes into digestible steps, which is perfect for hands-on learning."
"The practical exercises are incredibly helpful, giving me the confidence to tackle my own FX projects."
Some sections may feel rushed or lack advanced detail.
"While generally excellent, some parts felt a bit rushed, and I had to pause frequently to catch up or research externally."
"I wish there was more in-depth coverage for certain advanced concepts; it sometimes feels like a rapid overview."
"Some newer modules are very strong, but older ones occasionally lack the same level of detail or updated information."
"For intermediate users, certain sections might feel too basic, while advanced topics could use more expansion."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Complete Houdini FX Bootcamp with these activities:
Review Houdini Basics
This helps refresh essential concepts and techniques that are foundational to Houdini.
Browse courses on Houdini
Show steps
  • Review Houdini documentation.
  • Complete online tutorials.
  • Watch video demonstrations.
Connect with Houdini Experts
This provides an opportunity to connect with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support as you learn Houdini.
Browse courses on Houdini
Show steps
  • Attend industry events.
  • Join online communities.
  • Reach out to individuals directly.
  • Attend workshops and training sessions.
Houdini Resource Collection
This requires researching and compiling a list of valuable resources, which can serve as a valuable reference for future projects using Houdini.
Browse courses on Houdini
Show steps
  • Search for resources on official Houdini websites.
  • Explore online forums and communities.
  • Review documentation and tutorials.
  • Attend webinars and workshops.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Build a Tool
This provides an opportunity to apply the techniques you are learning in the course to a real-world problem.
Browse courses on Python
Show steps
  • Identify the problem.
  • Research the topic.
  • Design and implement the solution.
  • Test and debug the solution.
  • Deploy and maintain the solution.
Assignment 3 Exercise 2
This exercise asks you to create a 3D model of a complex object using Houdini. Completing this exercise will allow you to practice your modeling skills in Houdini.
Show steps
  • Create a new Houdini project.
  • Import the provided reference image.
  • Create a new geometry object.
  • Model the object using the provided reference image.
  • Save your model.
Houdini Pyro Tutorial
This tutorial will teach you how to use Houdini's Pyro solver to create realistic fire and smoke effects. Completing this tutorial will allow you to expand your knowledge of Houdini's capabilities and improve your skills in creating visual effects.
Show steps
  • Watch the tutorial videos.
  • Follow along with the tutorial steps.
  • Create your own fire and smoke effects.
  • Share your results with the community.
Final Project
This project will allow you to demonstrate your skills in Houdini by creating a short animated film. Completing this project will provide you with a valuable portfolio piece and help you to develop your skills in visual effects.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your film.
  • Write a script for your film.
  • Create the assets for your film.
  • Animate your film.
  • Render your film.

Career center

Learners who complete Complete Houdini FX Bootcamp will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Game Developer
A Game Developer designs and develops video games. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the video game industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in video games.
3D Animator
A 3D Animator creates three-dimensional models and animations for film, television, and video games. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the 3D animation industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in 3D animation.
Technical Director
A Technical Director is responsible for the technical aspects of a film, television, or video game production. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the film, television, and video game industries. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in these industries.
VFX Artist
A VFX Artist uses computer graphics to create visual effects for film, television, and video games. This course may be useful for learning how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in visual effects. The course also teaches how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the visual effects industry.
Simulation Engineer
A Simulation Engineer uses computer simulations to model and analyze the behavior of physical systems. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the simulation engineering industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in simulation engineering.
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist uses data to solve problems and make predictions. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the data science industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in data science.
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software applications. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the software engineering industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in software engineering.
Product Manager
A Product Manager is responsible for the development and marketing of a product. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the product management industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in product management.
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for the planning, execution, and completion of a project. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the project management industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in project management.
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing and documenting the business requirements of an organization. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the business analysis industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in business analysis.
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer is responsible for writing technical documentation. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the technical writing industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in technical writing.
Marketing Manager
A Marketing Manager is responsible for the development and execution of marketing campaigns. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the marketing industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in marketing.
Sales Manager
A Sales Manager is responsible for the development and execution of sales strategies. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the sales industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in sales.
Customer Success Manager
A Customer Success Manager is responsible for the satisfaction and retention of customers. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the customer success industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in customer success.
Human Resources Manager
A Human Resources Manager is responsible for the development and execution of human resources policies and programs. This course may be useful for learning how to use Houdini, a software program that is popular in the human resources industry. The course also teaches how to create realistic explosions, oceans, destruction, and other effects that are commonly used in human resources.

Featured in The Course Notes

This course is mentioned in our blog, The Course Notes. Read one article that features Complete Houdini FX Bootcamp:

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Complete Houdini FX Bootcamp.
Covers compositing techniques and workflows, and provides a well-rounded understanding of digital compositing.
Provides an overview of the art of 3D computer animation and effects, which is useful for understanding the broader context of Houdini's use in the industry.
A resource for the physics that drives simulation inside Houdini.

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