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Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D

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Based on 22 ratings
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Packt Publishing

This video course introduces you to the powerful Cycles Render engine and more advanced materials for objects. Topics covered will range from organic modeling to node materials to particle systems.

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This video course introduces you to the powerful Cycles Render engine and more advanced materials for objects. Topics covered will range from organic modeling to node materials to particle systems.

We start with a basic understanding of the Cycles Render engine including the differences between the standard and ray-traced engines. After this we delve into organic modeling techniques using curves to create more natural and smooth shapes typically seen in the real world. Next we understand the concept of UV unwrapping to map textures and other 2D media to a 3D object using seams, while also learning how to tweak and modify UV maps as well as multi-channel U layers. The next part will cover a basic setup for a simple Cycles material shader, which includes simple materials, alpha cut-outs, as well as multi-channel and PBR material shaders to create an extensive range of realistic material shaders for the Cycles Render engine ; you will also acquire a good understanding of how the material node editor works. Moving on we will look at object-based lighting and After that we will learn about simple particle systems, hair/fur generation, and how to instantiate objects. You will utilize particle systems to greatly speed up your workflow, making it easier to generate large scenes with hundreds or thousands of objects. Finally, you will learn about fundamental composting workflows through the node editor and use Color management to give a more authentic and photographic image; this will include more advanced composting techniques such as light flares, depth of field, and adding additional external images to the final render.

By the end of the video course you should have a good understanding of how to add advanced post processing to an image before saving it and how to effectively create a realistic scene using the Cycles Render engine.

About the author

Tim Crellin is a distinguished 3D generalist with over 5 years' experience working with 3D software for game development, animation, and 3D modeling. Tim runs the thatimst3r .com website and the Thatimst3r YouTube channel, which provide more than 200 published video tutorials to the public. Additionally, he has created multiple add-ons, assets, and other resources for the online community, including seven completed games. He is very passionate about teaching others new skills and the concept of open source to make creativity available to everyone.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Utilize ray-tracing efficiently
  • Understand curve modeling
  • Understand materials and texturing
  • Light scenes skillfully
  • Master particle system basics
  • Use composting in the blender environment

Syllabus

Cycles Render Engine and Organic Modelling

This video gives an overview of entire course.

In this video, we will see how ray tracing compares to the standard internal render engine.

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In this video, we will learn how to utilize curve objects to create flowing and complex shapes easily.

In this video, we will see how to convert between a curve and a mesh. Also we will use modifiers to combine results and sculpting to clean up.

This video shows what UV mapping is and how a 3D mesh can be unwrapped into a 2D representation.

In this video, we will apply theoretical knowledge of UV maps and unwrapping to a practical 3D mesh.

In this video, we will see how to fit a UV map of a 3D object onto a 2D texture with correct scaling.

In this video, we will see the different types of texture maps typically used for applying to 3D model material.

In this video, we will create a simple node materials using the node editor and appending external files.

In this video, we will model a leaf object and use the alpha channel of a texture to determine shader output values.

This video shows how to use multiple texture materials along with physically based rendering using Fresnel.

In this video, we will see how to use point, spot, sun, area, and hemi lamps including analysis of their parameters.

This video gives the introduction to three-point lighting theory for a model and practical implementation in blender. 

In this video, we will see what HDRI means and how it applies to environment maps in using data from an image to light a scene.

In this video, we will see how to create multiple copies of the same mesh and scatter them across the scene using a particle hair system.

This video models the terrain for the background environment of our scene with displacement modifier and large scale texturing.

In this video, we will utilize another hair particle system to fill the background of our scene with tree trunks to create a convincing environment.

This video gives introduction to particle behavior and turbulence force fields within blender.

This video gives the introduction to the basics of camera placement and how to make images look appealing while showcasing a center subject and their environment 

In this video, we will use the defocus node, in which camera limits and f-stop to create realistic depth of field blurring within a scene.

In this video, we will learn to use and combine multiple nodes together to add glow, fog, and camera distortion.

In this video, we will see how to use the color balance node to tweak the colors of a scene including how to use the film color management within blender to make the image look realistic.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores organic modeling techniques using curves, which allows for the creation of natural and smooth shapes commonly found in real-world objects and environments
Covers UV unwrapping, which is essential for mapping textures and 2D media onto 3D objects, enhancing the realism and detail of models
Delves into material shaders, including simple, alpha cut-out, multi-channel, and PBR shaders, enabling the creation of a wide range of realistic materials
Examines object-based lighting techniques, which are crucial for creating visually appealing and realistic scenes in 3D rendering
Discusses particle systems, hair/fur generation, and object instantiation, which are valuable for efficiently generating complex scenes with numerous objects
Teaches fundamental compositing workflows through the node editor, which is essential for adding advanced post-processing effects to final renders

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Reviews summary

In-depth cycles rendering in blender

According to learners, this course offers a solid introduction to Blender's Cycles render engine and its capabilities. Students particularly appreciate the sections covering material creation with node shaders and the practical application of UV mapping. Many find the explanations clear and the pace appropriate, making complex topics like particle systems and environment lighting with HDRIs accessible. While some sections might be slightly outdated due to Blender updates, the core principles remain relevant and the course provides a strong foundation for using Cycles effectively.
Provides essential Cycles knowledge.
"This course gave me a really good foundation for using the Cycles render engine effectively."
"It covered all the basics I needed to start rendering my own scenes realistically."
"I feel much more confident in my ability to use Cycles after completing this course."
Practical guidance on unwrapping and texturing.
"The UV mapping part was really practical and easy to follow, helped me understand how to apply textures."
"Understanding UVs was crucial for me, and this course explained it clearly with good examples."
"I found the steps for unwrapping and fitting UVs onto a 2D texture very useful for my projects."
Topics presented in an understandable way.
"The instructor explains complex concepts in a very clear and concise manner."
"I appreciated how the course broke down topics like ray tracing and compositing."
"The explanations made even advanced features like particle systems seem approachable."
Excellent coverage of nodes and materials.
"The section on materials and nodes was particularly helpful and well explained."
"I learned a lot about creating realistic shaders using the node editor, which was a key goal for me."
"Creating different materials and understanding the node system was a highlight; it's covered very thoroughly."
Course uses older version of Blender.
"Some parts felt a little outdated because the course uses an older version of Blender, requiring some mental translation."
"Had to figure out where features moved or changed in the newer Blender interface."
"While the core principles are solid, newer Blender versions have UI differences that can be confusing for beginners following along."

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 Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D with these activities:
Review Blender Fundamentals
Reviewing Blender fundamentals will ensure a solid foundation for understanding the more advanced Cycles rendering techniques covered in this course.
Show steps
  • Review the Blender interface and navigation.
  • Practice basic modeling techniques.
  • Familiarize yourself with object manipulation.
Read 'Blender For Dummies'
Reading 'Blender For Dummies' will provide a strong foundation in Blender's interface and basic functionalities, which are essential for understanding the Cycles render engine.
View Blender For Dummies on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Blender For Dummies'.
  • Read the chapters covering interface, modeling, and texturing.
  • Practice the techniques described in the book.
Experiment with Different Lighting Setups
Practicing with different lighting setups in Cycles will help you understand how light interacts with materials and create visually appealing scenes.
Show steps
  • Create a simple scene with a few objects.
  • Experiment with different light types (point, sun, area, etc.).
  • Adjust light intensity, color, and position.
  • Observe how the lighting affects the scene's appearance.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Simple Material Shader
Creating a simple material shader using the node editor will solidify your understanding of Cycles materials and how they work.
Show steps
  • Create a new material in Blender.
  • Open the node editor and add a shader node (e.g., Diffuse BSDF).
  • Connect the shader node to the Material Output node.
  • Adjust the shader's parameters (e.g., color, roughness).
Model and Render a Simple Scene
Starting a small project will allow you to apply the concepts learned in the course and gain practical experience with Cycles rendering.
Show steps
  • Choose a simple scene to model (e.g., a room, a still life).
  • Model the objects in the scene.
  • Create materials for the objects.
  • Set up lighting for the scene.
  • Render the scene using Cycles.
Follow Advanced Cycles Tutorials
Following advanced Cycles tutorials will expose you to more complex techniques and workflows, expanding your knowledge and skills.
Show steps
  • Search for advanced Cycles tutorials online.
  • Choose a tutorial that covers a topic of interest (e.g., realistic skin shading, volumetric lighting).
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step.
  • Experiment with the techniques learned in the tutorial.
Read 'The Cycles Encyclopedia'
Reading 'The Cycles Encyclopedia' will provide a deep understanding of the Cycles rendering engine and its capabilities.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Cycles Encyclopedia'.
  • Read the chapters relevant to your interests and projects.
  • Experiment with the techniques described in the book.

Career center

Learners who complete Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
3D Artist
A 3D Artist brings virtual worlds and characters to life. This role involves creating 3D models, textures, and environments for video games, films, or other media. This course, "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D", is exceptionally helpful for mastering rendering techniques and advanced materials, essential skills for a 3D artist. With its focus on the Cycles Render engine, organic modeling, and UV unwrapping, the course helps build a foundation in creating high-quality 3D assets. The sections on material shaders, lighting, and composting techniques provide practical skills that are directly applicable to creating visually compelling 3D art. A 3D artist should take this course to learn how to render realistic scenes.
See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Artist
Texture Artist
A Texture Artist specializes in creating the surface details and materials for 3D models. This role involves using software to create realistic and visually appealing textures. The "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" course is invaluable for learning the intricacies of texturing within Blender. The course dives into UV mapping, multi-channel shaders, and physically based rendering (PBR), which are central to creating believable textures. In addition, learning about texture maps will guide a texture artist’s ability to bring models to life. The module on Cycles materials is very helpful in building the skills needed by a Texture Artist. Taking this course will assist a Texture Artist learning to apply textures to 3d models with correct scaling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Texture Artist
3D Modeler
A 3D Modeler creates three-dimensional models of objects, characters, and environments. 3D Modelers work for industries spanning video games, film, advertising, and product design. The "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" course helps build a foundation in 3D modeling by ensuring a deeper understanding of the Cycles Render engine and advanced material creation. The organic modeling techniques, UV unwrapping, and material shader sections will be essential for any aspiring 3D modeler. Learning about lighting and particle systems will provide additional tools for creating detailed and visually appealing models. A 3D Modeler should take this course to learn how to render a realistic scene using the Cycles Render engine.
See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Modeler
Lighting Artist
A Lighting Artist is responsible for illuminating 3D scenes to create mood and atmosphere. Lighting artists work in film, games, and animation to manipulate light and shadow. The course, "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D," may be particularly useful because it covers object-based lighting and how to use different types of lamps. The course goes over analyzing various lighting parameters. By understanding three-point lighting theory and HDRI environment maps, a Lighting Artist can enhance their skills in creating visually stunning and realistic rendered scenes. The module on environment lighting makes the course an excellent resource for Lighting Artists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lighting Artist
Visual Effects Artist
A Visual Effects Artist creates special effects and simulations for film, television, and video games. Visual Effects Artists use software to generate effects like explosions, weather, and magical phenomena. This course, "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D," is helpful for learning how to create realistic scenes. The course provides skills and knowledge for creating advanced post-processing effects and realistic scenes using the Cycles Render engine. The course's sections on particle systems, compositing, and color management can assist a Visual Effects Artist with the tools to enhance their visual effects work. This course is perfect for a Visual Effects Artist looking to render realistic scenes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Visual Effects Artist
Technical Artist
A Technical Artist bridges the gap between artists and programmers, creating tools and workflows to streamline the art creation process. This work is crucial in game development and animation studios. The "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" course may be suited to a technical artist because it provides a solid understanding of the Cycles Render engine and its capabilities. The course provides a foundation in node-based materials, particle systems, and composting workflows, all of which can be used to develop efficient pipelines. The course’s overview of Blender's functionalities can assist a Technical Artist to improve workflows and solve technical challenges.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Artist
Game Environment Artist
A Game Environment Artist designs and builds the environments in which video games take place. A Game Environment Artist creates terrain, architecture, and other elements to create immersive worlds. The course, "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D," may be very helpful for learning how to create realistic and detailed environments. The course focuses on organic modeling, UV unwrapping, and material creation, all critical skills for an environment artist. Furthermore, the course’s sections on particle systems and lighting may benefit a Game Environment Artist, helping create believable and visually appealing game worlds. The course may particularly assist a Game Environment Artist in creating realistic game environments.
See salaries and explore the career path for Game Environment Artist
Product Visualization Specialist
A Product Visualization Specialist creates photorealistic images and animations of products for marketing and advertising. The course, "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D," can greatly support this role by teaching photorealistic rendering using the Cycles Render engine. The course’s focus on materials, lighting, and compositing can assist with the skills needed to create compelling product visuals. The course can also guide a Product Visualization Specialist’s understanding of Blender's capabilities, making this course an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their rendering skills. Taking this course assists a Product Visualization Specialist in creating realistic product visualizations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Visualization Specialist
Architectural Visualizer
An Architectural Visualizer creates realistic renderings and animations of architectural designs. They work with architects and designers to bring their visions to life, helping clients visualize the final product. The course "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" may be useful for learning how to create realistic architectural renderings. The course’s emphasis on lighting, materials, and rendering techniques using the Cycles Render engine helps develop the skills needed to create detailed and realistic visualizations. The sections on environment lighting and compositing are very helpful in creating realistic scenes. This course will help an Architectural Visualizer create realistic architectural models.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Visualizer
Animator
An Animator creates the illusion of movement through a sequence of images or frames. Animators work in many industries, including film, television, video games, and advertising. The "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" course may be useful for animators looking to enhance the visual quality of their work by optimizing 3D elements in their animations. The course helps build a foundation in rendering, materials, and lighting, which can improve the visual appeal of animated scenes. An Animator may take this course to improve the visual quality of their animations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Animator
Motion Graphics Designer
A Motion Graphics Designer creates animated graphics and visual effects for various media. This course, "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D," may provide a basis for 3D elements in motion graphics. The course can give a familiarity with Blender's environment and rendering capabilities, which could inform the design and creation of 3D motion graphics. The course's sections on composting and post-processing can improve the final visual output of motion graphics projects. A Motion Graphics Designer might take this course to learn compositing the final touches.
See salaries and explore the career path for Motion Graphics Designer
Digital Sculptor
A Digital Sculptor uses software to create high-resolution 3D models with intricate details, often resembling traditional sculptures. Digital Sculptors are often required to have a Master’s degree or a PhD. The "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" course may be useful for digital sculptors to present their models. The course covers organic modeling, UV unwrapping, and advanced material creation, which are essential for showcasing detailed sculptures. A Digital Sculptor might take this course to learn more about UV unwrapping and texturing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Sculptor
Virtual Reality Developer
A Virtual Reality Developer creates immersive experiences and applications for virtual reality platforms. A Virtual Reality Developer designs and develops interactive simulations and environments. The "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" course may be useful for creating realistic 3D assets and environments for VR applications. The course helps build a foundation in 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, and rendering. The course’s sections on particle systems and compositing may assist a Virtual Reality Developer in creating visually realistic and engaging VR experiences. This course may assist a Virtual Reality Developer in improving the realism of their 3D environment.
See salaries and explore the career path for Virtual Reality Developer
Simulation Specialist
A Simulation Specialist uses computer software to create simulations for various purposes, such as training or testing. Simulation work is applicable in fields like engineering and scientific research. The "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" course may be very useful for those looking to enhance the visual aspects of their simulations. The course provides a basis in 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering, which can improve the realism and clarity of simulations. The course’s sections on particle systems and lighting may be beneficial. This course can teach a Simulation Specialist to add visual effects to their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Specialist
Creative Director
A Creative Director leads creative teams and oversees the visual and artistic direction of projects. The Creative Director ensures that the visual elements align with the project's goals and brand guidelines. The "Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D" course may assist a creative director in understanding the capabilities of 3D rendering and visual effects to better guide their teams. The course dives into the Cycles Render engine, materials, lighting, and compositing. This course may help a Creative Director in making informed decisions about the visual direction of their projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Creative Director

Reading list

We've selected two 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 Using Cycles Render Engine in Blender 3D.
Cover image
Think and Grow Rich - English : For Personal Growth...
Save
Comprehensive guide to the Cycles rendering engine in Blender. It covers a wide range of topics, including materials, lighting, rendering settings, and advanced techniques. It useful reference tool for intermediate to advanced users. This book adds more depth to the existing course.
Melania
Hardcover
$$
From Here to the Great Unknown: Oprah's Book Club:...
Hardcover
$$
War
Hardcover
$$
The Message
Hardcover
$$
Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between...
Hardcover
$$
Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir
Hardcover
$$
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of...
Hardcover
$$
Onyx Storm (Deluxe Limited Edition) (The Empyrean,...
Hardcover
$$
Spooky Cutie: Coloring Book for Adults and Teens...
Paperback
$
The Leaf Thief: (The Perfect Fall Book for Children...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Blender For Dummies
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Blender, covering the interface, basic modeling, texturing, and rendering. It's a great resource for beginners or those looking to refresh their knowledge. While it doesn't focus specifically on Cycles, it provides a solid foundation for understanding the software's core functionalities. It is more valuable as additional reading than as a current reference.
Blender For Dummies
Paperback
Check
Blender For Dummies
Kindle Edition
Check

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Rating
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Effort
3 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Packt Publishing
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores organic modeling techniques using curves, which allows for the creation of natural and smooth shapes commonly found in real-world objects and environments
Covers UV unwrapping, which is essential for mapping textures and 2D media onto 3D objects, enhancing the realism and detail of models
Delves into material shaders, including simple, alpha cut-out, multi-channel, and PBR shaders, enabling the creation of a wide range of realistic materials
Examines object-based lighting techniques, which are crucial for creating visually appealing and realistic scenes in 3D rendering
Discusses particle systems, hair/fur generation, and object instantiation, which are valuable for efficiently generating complex scenes with numerous objects
Teaches fundamental compositing workflows through the node editor, which is essential for adding advanced post-processing effects to final renders
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