There are numerous learning resources to study Houdini, but it’s still pretty difficult to get started with this amazing tool. What does one need to set up the first project?

There are numerous learning resources to study Houdini, but it’s still pretty difficult to get started with this amazing tool. What does one need to set up the first project? This presentation by Matt Estela might give you an idea.

The artist has spent years writing CGWiki, studying showreels, hiring artists, and now he’s teaching Houdini at a masters degree level at the UTS Animal Logic Academy, so Estela knows what defines a strong FX artist. He discussed several examples from his current students, breaking down what skills are essential, and how to best demonstrate them in a reel.

Matt Estela is currently VFX Lead in Residence at The Animal Logic Academy, University of Technology Sydney. He teaches VFX and VR as part of a Masters of Animation and Visualization.

You can find more talks from SideFX here.