Special effects are the holy grail of the digital media revolution. Being able to create the fantastic and impossible images required from the modern screenplay has helped propel 3D creation suites like Blender to the forefront of the creative media environment. Material and texture techniques are crucial to the process of creating a stunning special effect. We, as artists, will find creating such unique and visually stimulating simulations one of the most enjoyable aspects of our craft.
In this chapter, we will be creating some of the most difficult things in any 3D suite, smoke, fire, and explosions. Once you know how to create these material simulations in Blender, you will be able to apply them to create many special effects for your own, or directors', productions. You will see how simple texture changes can radically alter the appearance of smoke and fire. You will also explore ways to reduce production and render times normally associated with such difficult recreations...