Free Tips Search Results

How To: Create a moving blur effect via keyframes in Final Cut

In this FCP tutorial, you'll learn how to keyframe the mask shape filter with blur to track the movement of the camera. Whether you're new to Apple's Final Cut Pro non-linear video editor or just looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're sure to benefit from this free video tutorial. For specifics, including detailed instructions, watch this Final Cut Pro lesson.

How To: Blur out a car's license plate in Final Cut Pro

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to blur out a couple of car number plates in a static shot in Final Cut Pro. Whether you're new to Apple's Final Cut Pro non-linear video editor or just looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're sure to benefit from this free video tutorial. For specifics, including detailed instructions, watch this Final Cut Pro lesson.

How To: Create shape keys within Blender 2.5

This tutorial goes over creating shape keys (or shapekeys) within Blender and goes on to apply drivers to the shape keys so that the armature can control the them. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions...

How To: Recover a lost file in Blender 2.5's autosave feature

With this quick Blender 2.5 video tip, you'll see how to stave off frustration in the case of a crash or lost work by using Blender's autosave feature to recover your work. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step ins...

How To: Use Blender 2.5's external drag and drop feature

In this quick Blender 2.5 video tip, you'll see how to use the new external drag and drop functionality recently added to Blender. This feature enables you to drag and drop images and videos from your operating systems file browser into Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from...

How To: Place decals onto 3D models via empties in Blender 2.5

This Blender 2.5 quick video tip demonstrates how to easily place decals onto your model with empties. This technique provides you complete control over the location, rotation and scale of your decal without the need for UV maps. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG...

How To: Smooth out 3D models with Blender's Edgesplit modifier

In this quick Blender 2.5 video tip, you'll see how to make a lowpoly model appear smoother than it actually is by using an Edgesplit modifier. This technique also resolves the issue with artifacts you commonly face when displaying a lowpoly model as smooth. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software ...

How To: Lock the viewing angle in Blender by viewport snapping

This quick Blender video tip demonstrates how to use viewport snapping to lock the viewing angle to any 45 degree increment. This feature is similar to the viewport navigation that is found in ZBrush. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information...

How To: Layer background images in Blender 2.5

This quick Blender 2.5 video tip tutorial demonstrates how to use multiple background images. This feature is very useful and allows for layering images in the viewport and assigning separate images to specific viewing angles. Without the need for multiple viewports. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video ...

How To: Model a human hand in Blender 3D

This Blender 2.5 video tutorial offers a demonstration and overview of clean hand topology. The tutorial includes tips on how to structure your mesh, including clean topology, mesh flow and edgeloop density. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more info...

How To: Create insets with Blender's smooth & extrude tools

In this quick Blender 2.5 tip, you'll see how to easily create insets in your mesh. This technique uses the Extrude Individual Faces and Smooth tools. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!

How To: Apply lighting to 3D objects in Blender

This clip covers the very basics of how lighting works within the Blender 3D modeling app. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on how to create and manipulate lights, take a look!

How To: Texture 3D objects with materials in Blender

Materials allow you to just the colors and specularity of your 3D models. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on applying materials to your own Blender models, take a look!

How To: Match plane's aspect ratio to an image in Blender

In this tip video, you'll see how to set the aspect ratio of a plane object to match that of the image mapped to it. This is important to prevent distortion in the mapped image. This knowledge will be helpful when using image planes for cutout trees and people, instanced image planes for particle effects, and any situation where you need non-distorted images on plane objects. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned ...

How To: Measure objects and distances within Blender

This clip offers a look at how to measure objects and distances in Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!

How To: Create stable procedural noise textures in Blender

In this quick clip, you'll see how to easily create a procedural noise texture that's stable during animation, unlike the default "Noise" procedural texture that's available in Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including ste...

How To: Clean up imported 3D models in Blender

It is quite common for imported models to come into Blender with duplicate vertices and triangulated faces. This quick tip demonstrates how to very easily fix these two issues, leaving you with a model that is ready to go. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie...

How To: Create a three-point lighting rig in Blender

A good lighting setup is essential to effectively displaying your model. Without it your hard work might as well be for nothing. This tutorial takes a look at how to make a good three-point (+) lighting setup in Blender. The tutorial covers the different kinds of lights within Blender, the different configurations needed, and some general tips and tricks to creating a good setup within Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application...

How To: Control edge flows in Blender

When working with a high density mesh in Blender, maintainig a firm grip on topology is essential. This quick video demonstrates a few tips for increasing/decreasing your topology in a given area and for redirecting the flow of your topology. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from th...

How To: Create threaded models with Blender's screw modifier

In this quick Blender 2.5 video tip, you'll see how you can use the Screw modifier to quickly create threaded objects or springs. This method is non-destructive and very quick to use. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-...

How To: Create a 3D model of a wooden barrel in Blender 2.5

Making use of multiple modifiers and projection painting this tutorial covers the entire process of modeling and texturing an old, wooden barrel in Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take ...

How To: Create a 3D model of a screw in Blender

This is a quick tip on how to model a screw within Blender. But more so on covering the “threading” of the screw itself. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!

How To: Render an infinite ground plane in Blender

This clip goes through process of setting up a infinite ground plane with shadows to better display your models within Blender. The tip also looks at a couple of tweaks while using Ambient Occlusion to adjust the shadows. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie....

How To: Cut a whole in a curved mesh in Blender

Cutting a hole into a curved mesh is a common problem, particularly for new modelers. This tip shows you how to go about doing it using Blender's retopology tools. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions...

How To: Append nodes in Blender

Appending nodes allows you to reuse node trees from previous files. This can be a huge time saver, particularly when working with complex setups. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!

How To: Model a 3D steampunk telescope in Blender

In this clip, Jonathan Williamson discusses modeling and texturing a steampunk-style telescope within Blender. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, and to get started modeling your own distressed, ge...

How To: Use the Loop Cut tool in Blender

Meet the Blender Loop Cut tool! Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on how to use the Loop Cut tool in your own Blender projects, take a look!

How To: Unwrap UVs on a 3D human head model in Blender

In this tutorial, you'll see how to unwrap the UVs on a human head model in Blender (including the use of seams and pinning). Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, take a look!

How To: Use the Bridge Modifier tool in Blender

This clip presents short video overview of the Blender Bridge Modifier tool. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on using the Bridge Modifier tool in your own Blender projects, take a look!

How To: Use the Mirror Modifier tool in Blender

The Mirror Modifier can be extremely helpful in modeling objects with Symmetry. Whether you're new to the Blender Foundation's popular open-source 3D computer graphics application or are a seasoned digital artist merely on the lookout for new tips and tricks, you're sure to be well served by this free video software tutorial from the folks at CG Cookie. For more information, including step-by-step instructions, and to get started using the Mirror Modifier in your own Blender projects, take a ...

How To: Soften skin, control color & tones in Photoshop CS4

Learn about skin softening techniques and the controlling of color and tones when working in Adobe Photoshop! Whether you're new to computer graphics, new to Adobe Photoshop CS4 or a seasoned design professional just looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're certain to like this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, and to get started managing skin tones in Photoshop yourself, watch this designer's guide!

How To: Create fern leaves within Adobe Photoshop CS4 or CS5

Learn to create fern leaves by using custom brushes and adjusting brush settings along paths. Whether you're new to computer graphics, new to Adobe Photoshop CS4 or a seasoned design professional just looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're certain to like this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, and to get started making your own digital fern leaves in Photoshop, take a look!

How To: Create custom gradients within the GIMP image editor

Wondering how to make a custom gradient in GIMP? This clip will show you how it's done. Whether you're new to the GNU Image Manipulation Program, GNU's popular free graphics editor, or a seasoned designer just looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're certain to enjoy this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, and to get started making your own custom gradients, take a look!

How To: Create a simple outer-space background in GIMP

Want to create a quick and easy space backdrop using GIMP? This clip will show you how. Whether you're new to the GNU Image Manipulation Program, GNU's popular free graphics editor, or a seasoned designer just looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're certain to enjoy this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, and to get started making your own outer-space backgrounds in GIMP.

How To: Return multiple items by array formula in MS Excel

New to Microsoft Excel? Looking for a tip? How about a tip so mind-blowingly useful as to qualify as a magic trick? You're in luck. In this MS Excel tutorial from ExcelIsFun, the 609th installment in their series of digital spreadsheet magic tricks, you'll learn how to use the COUNTIF, IF, COLUMNS, INDEX, TEXT, SMALL and COLUMN functions in an array formula to return multiple items (e.g., list free periods for a list of students).

How To: Create a slick glossy text effect in Adobe Photoshop

Looking for instructions on how to create a simple glossy text effect in Adobe Photoshop? Look no further. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular image editing software or simply looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're sure to benefit from this free video tutorial, which presents a complete step-by-step guide on how to create glossy text logos and headers in Photoshop.

How To: Create a website header logo in Photoshop

Want to create a header logo for your website in Photoshop? This lesson will show you how. Meet the Adobe Photoshop pen tool! Whether you're new to Adobe's popular image editing software or simply looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're sure to benefit from this free video tutorial, which presents a complete step-by-step guide to designing custom website logos in Adobe Photoshop.

How To: Draw cartoon clouds in Photoshop

What better way to pass a cloudy day than with Photoshop? Whether you're new to Adobe's popular image editing software or simply looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're sure to benefit from this free video tutorial, which demonstrates how to generate cartoon clouds within photoshop. For more information, and to get creating clouds yourself, watch this graphic designer's guide.

How To: Make digital clear plastic tape in Photoshop

Want to give your images a distinctly analog feel? Give this Scotch tape effect a try. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular image editing software or simply looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're sure to benefit from this free video tutorial from TutVids. For more information, including step-by-step instructions on how to create a transparent tape effect in Photoshop, watch this graphic designer's guide.