Just a few questions from a total newbie....
Hello all!! I am new to the forum as well as Daz3D, or any 3D modeling for that matter, and had a few questions to get me started. Well I downloaded the software and purchased:
- DAZ Studio 4 Auto-Fit Tool
- Genesis 2 Male Morphs Bundle
- Genesis 2 Female(s) Morphs Bundle
- Manga Style Shaders
- Visual Style Shaders
- Platinum Club Annual Membership
My ultimate goal is to produce graphic novels in a grungy noir setting. I plan to render scenes in Daz, Do port work in Photoshop, then panels and text in Manga Studio. I don't have a huge budget but also don't believe in pirating so i need to make as little as possible go a long way. So my questions are as follows:
1- What is the purpose of the models? i.e. Michael 5, Akiko 5, etc. Are they necessary or can I use Genesis 2 with morphs and maybe skin textures?
2- With the auto fit tool can I use clothes meant for pre-made models like Michael on my Genesis model?
3- Are there any Daz3D friendly sites where I can get free products?
4- Are there any recommended YouTube channels with tuts that might help me?
5- Lastly what are my benefits of my Platinum membership and how do I get the most out of it? (I just don't want to miss out on something and let it go to waist)
Thanks in advance for any advice and help. I am looking forward to becoming an active member in the community and starting my new endeavor!!
Comments
1. They are additional shapes (and textures). You don't need them.
2. AutoFit depends on "clones", sahpes for the current figure that match an older figure. By default the previous generation is supported - Michael 4, Victoria 4 and Kids 4 fro Genesis, Genesis (and the other Genesis 2 sex) for Genesis 2 - but there are clones for the third generation figures for Genesis and for the fourth generation for Genesis 2 in the store.
3. This is the big one, but you will also find some DAZ Studio freebies at Renderosity - and many Poser freebies there and at RDNA can be used in DS.
4. DAZ has a YouTube channel with a lot of content.
5. 30% off DAZ products, and a monthly coupon for $6 towards DAZ Products - that is, full store products (not $1.99 or $2.99 items) that list DAZ 3D as the vendor; access to the catalogue of $1.99 and $2.99 items; monthly freebie for PC members only, and the weekly freebie without having to buy another product at the same time; occasional special promotions; access to the Members Only forum, with two regular contests that have small prizes.
Thanks for the response! I am still not sure on auto fit tool. I thought all of the shapes like Michael 5 was built off the Genesis form? So any clothes should fit genesis or am I looking at something wrong? If I find a dress for a Victoria model and I buy it can I fit it to the genesis model?
The Auto-Fit tool is built in to the current pro versions of Studio. If you bought the separate plug-in you should file a support ticket with customer support and ask for a refund. You should also uninstall the plug-in and may even need to uninstall then re-install Studio to reset the built in Auto-Fit. As for the usefulness of Auto-Fit it works well with tight fitting clothes and flatfooted shoes; dresses, long robes or coats and high heel shoes are hit or miss. As you are just starting stick to clothing made for Genesis and Genesis 2.
Michael 5 and Victoria 5 are variations on the Genesis 1 base model (not to be confused with Genesis 2).
Yep, just remember this Genesis is Generation 5 so all 5 figures are Genesis shapes. G2 is Generation 6 so all 6 figures are G2. Keep in mind some are not named with a 5 or a 6 but a Name like Gia. Gia is a G6 but not called a 6 figure so check which BASE the figures are made for.
Thanks for all the input guys!! Looking forward to getting started!