3D Layers and CS3 Extended

[Basil]

tutorial part 1 (http://www.digitaltutors.com/digital_tutors/video_details.php?v=916)
tutorial part 2 (http://www.digitaltutors.com/digital_tutors/video_details.php?v=917)

i saw this overview of Photoshop's new 3D features posted over at CG channel.

i've heard a lot of people talk about how concept art will incorporate more 3D over time and personally it gives me mixed feelings of excitement and a sense of loss. but, i think being able to manipulate 3D objects and lighting in PS is a big step in that direction and i want to know what you guys think! :bashful:

for one thing, i might try making a library of basic geometry to easily put into perspective in my paintings, which could be simple figures, columns, arches, spaceships, or just abstract shapes.

maybe it would work well for shape generation like brushes.

it could be useful for matte painting as well, like the reverse of 3D projection techniques already used?

[FlipMcgee]

Well, what I think is though this new feature is great there are other apps that are already out there that works better for 2d + 3d concept art use. Namely hybrid apps like Zbrush and Autodesk AliasStudio.

for one thing, i might try making a library of basic geometry to easily put into perspective in my paintings, which could be simple figures, columns, arches, spaceships, or just abstract shapes....maybe it would work well for shape generation like brushes

You basically have described zbrush.


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A more awesome 3d integration feature in PS for me is if we (folks who do 3d) could just apply a uvmap at a press of a button (a la zbrush) and 3d paint in PS itself.

And have full canvas rotation!

[Basil]

i haven't worked in zbrush, but i'll take your word for it. i guess there might be programs that mix 2d and 3d and are better suited to concept art, but i don't see that many concept artists using them in place of photoshop.

what i do see is people rendering basic geometries and perspective grids in programs like maya, c4d, and even sketchup and then bringing them into photoshop as a static image. i think the important thing about 3d support in CS3 is that the majority of concept artists (i'm guessing) are already going to be working in it. so it's got to have an effect on the existing workflow.

for one thing, i wonder what photoshop painters like sparth and mullins will do with this tool. i mean, look what they did with custom brushes. :wink:

[teho]

Yeah, this function is very useful with Mudbox... Can't wait to play with it.