LightWave-3D
LightWave 3D is a 3D computer graphics software developed by NewTek. It is known for its versatility in modeling, rendering, and animation, making it a popular choice among professionals in film, television, video games, and architectural visualization.
History
LightWave 3D was first released in 1990 for the Commodore Amiga. Originally, it was part of the Video Toaster, a video editing suite developed by NewTek. Here are some key milestones in its history:
- 1990: LightWave 3D is launched as part of the Video Toaster for the Amiga platform.
- 1994: The software transitions to the PC platform, gaining a broader user base.
- 1995: LightWave is used in the film Toy Story, marking its entry into the mainstream film industry.
- 2006: NewTek introduces LightWave 3D 9, featuring significant improvements in rendering and user interface.
- 2018: LightWave 2018 is released, introducing new tools for modeling, animation, and rendering.
- 2020: LightWave 2020.0.3 is released, adding support for USD (Universal Scene Description) format.
Features
LightWave 3D encompasses a wide array of tools for:
- Modeling: Polygon, NURBS, Subdivision Surface modeling capabilities.
- Animation: Keyframe animation, motion capture, character rigging, and dynamics simulation.
- Rendering: Global Illumination, Radiosity, Volumetric Lighting, and support for V-Ray rendering engine.
- Compositing: Integrated compositing node editor for post-processing effects.
- Scripting: Python scripting for automation and customization.
Applications
LightWave 3D has been used in numerous high-profile projects including:
Community and Support
LightWave has a robust community and offers:
- Regular updates and patches from NewTek.
- A comprehensive learning center with tutorials and documentation.
- An active user forum for troubleshooting and sharing knowledge.
- Integration with third-party plugins for extended functionality.
External Links
Related Topics