Welcome to this course on Modeling a Snowman in Cinema 4D!

This course was designed with the complete beginner in mind and was recorded using Cinema 4D version R25. The course covers simple concepts like modeling with parametric primitives and the only requirement is that the student should have a basic understanding of Cinema 4D’s user interface. The course is project-based and starts with simple modeling techniques. You will apply your new skills immediately in the 3D environment and upon completion have a fully realized 3D visualization, complete with environment and lighting.

Here are a few reasons why you would want to learn Cinema 4D with this online tutorial:

• Cinema 4D is an excellent application which enables you to make high quality models and renderings which can be used for a large variety of applications including character design, architecture, products and more.

• Understand the fundamentals of 3D modeling, texturing, lighting and rendering.

• Make your own unique 3D artwork.

• Gain an understanding of the entire production workflow for 3D visualization.

• Gain confidence to create your own project from start to finish.

With this beginner online tutorial, you will gain a solid understanding of the key concepts used to create 3D artwork.

In this series of lessons we will cover all the fundamentals of 3D including:

1. 3D Modeling

• Use parametric primitives as the basis for the geometry

• Utilize the ‘make editable’ function to refine the model and add detail

• Selection tools and attributes

• Splines + NURBS

• Use the symmetry object to mirror the face and arms

• Model the body, hat, face, and arms

• Grouping related geometry and file organization

• Populating the scene with Landscapes

  
  

2. Texturing

• Create default Cinema 4D Materials

• Adjust material attributes

• Add noise to materials for detail

• Create realistic reflections within the reflectance channel

• Create bump using noise textures

• Apply the materials to geometry

  
  

3. Modeling Variations

• Create your own version of a snowman using reference images

• Easily populate your scene using pre-made models and textures from the asset browser

  
  

4. Lighting

• 3-point light set-up; main light, fill light and rim light

• Use of physical sky object to create the sky and clouds

• Brief discussion of lighting tips

5. Composition

• Overview of the rule of thirds

• Cameras, composition tab, and protection tag

6. Rendering

• Set-up final output render settings using the standard renderer in Cinema 4D

• Size, aspect ratio, save path, anti-aliasing

About the Instructor

Pete Maric is the instructor for the course. He has been teaching 3D visualization and animation at Tri-C Community College and the Cleveland Institute of Art for over 10 years. In that timeframe, he has helped thousands of students become proficient in the use of 3D applications and gain confidence in their visual communication skills.