Fur is a great addition to the already robust modo toolset that will allow you to quickly add realistic fur detail to organic models in a variety of configurations. In addition to adding things like facial stubble or animal fur, you can also create grass, spines, or any number of organic shapes. To get you started using fur, we'll go over the fur material and many of the properties you'll need to set to get the look you want. We'll also cover methods for modulating fur properties using layers in the shader tree. We'll look at how we can style fur using texture maps as well as techniques for styling longer hair with guides. We'll use a couple of simple examples, a tennis ball and a little monster, to illustrate some of the basic things you'll want to know when starting out using fur. When you're done, you'll be able to start using fur in a variety of ways on your own modo projects.

Through these lessons we will explore features such as blurry reflections and refractions, and how we can gain a high level of control over each of these, we will also discuss the new Shadow Catcher feature, which provides for a much easier way of rendering our scenes over a background plate. In addition we will be learning about new features such as volumetric lighting effects, caustic and dispersion calculations, utilizing multiple environments, and other rendering features now found in modo 401.

One of the strengths of modo is modeling and it really offers a wide variety of tools that allow us to build models quickly and efficiently. With modo 401 that toolset has been expanded even more. In this course we'll take a look at some of the additions that will make retopology operations easier. We'll explore the use of the vector background constraint to deform geometry. We'll cover the rendering of curves and how we can use the Pen tool to create floorplans. We'll also look at how to use profile curves in combination with many of the modeling tools to quickly add complex geometry.

Whether you're populating a library with books, creating an insect stampede, or building your own corn field, replicators are great tools for dispersing a huge number of objects throughout your scene, while still allowing you to work effectively. These replicas won't be displayed in your 3d view, but will render with all of their shading and material information. In this course, we'll cover the basics of replicas and how they're different from mesh items and instances. Then using a desert scene as our example, we'll look at replicator items and how to set them up. We'll also cover methods for randomizing the transforms of the replicas and using surface generators. We'll also explore a few methods for modulating the placement of our replicas. Upon completion, you'll have a good understanding of replicas and you'll be able to put them to use in your own modo projects.

Popular highlights include: Modeling Tools Overview; Working with Mesh Items; Copying / Pasting Geometry; Selection Methods; Beveling Polygons and Edges; Adding Edge Loops; Backdrop Images for Reference; Creating Geometry with Curves; Joining Geometry; Reusing Geometry; Modeling with Deformers; Shaping Objects with Element Move; Combining Falloffs and Transforms; Working with Symmetry; Mirroring Geometry; Extruding Geometry Along Curves; Flex Tool; Modeling with Primitives; Extruding Polygons; Adding Geometry with Edge Extend; Creating Fitted Panels; Cloning Geometry Along Curves; Adding Edges with Edge Slice; Placing Geometry with Mesh Paint; Adding Materials; Rendering with HDRI.

Popular highlights include: Interface Overview; Customizing the Interface; Navigating 3D Viewport; Modeling Tools; Mesh Sculpting; Image-based Sculpting; Slicing Geometry; Smoothing Meshes; Combining Geometry; Setting Keyframes; Editing keyframes with Graph Editor; Blending Texture Layers; Utilizing Materials; Light Setup; Global Illumination; Subsurface Scattering; Adjusting Render Settings; Rendering Multiple Passes; Cloning Meshes; Working With Mesh Items; Bevel Tool; 3D Painting; Texture Layers for Effects; UV Layout; Morph Maps; Creating Images Inside modo; Using Solid Sketch.