In this workshop, Jose Vega demonstrates a 3D-first approach to background design that maintains efficiency and consistency in professional animation production. By investing time in 3D modeling, artists can produce multiple high-quality backgrounds faster, while maintaining visual consistency across sequences. This approach reflects real-world studio practices where time and budget constraints require decisions about where to allocate resources.

Duration: 28m 40s

This lesson introduces the tools and workflows in Blender most frequently used for background design. Additional concepts will be introduced during the scene-building process. This should enable new users to start creating immediately while developing a deeper understanding of Blender through practical experience.

Duration: 23m 29s

This lesson demonstrates how to translate storyboards into blocked-out 3D environments. The main takeaway is to work efficiently, starting with basic shapes, focusing only on camera-visible areas, and establishing proper scale and perspective early in the process. By keeping blocking rough and flexible, artists can explore design options and make adjustments before committing to detailed modeling.

Duration: 51m 9s

This lesson emphasizes the importance of establishing solid foundations for lighting in 3D, using basic light types and settings, without investing too much time in perfecting volumetrics, or creating fine details that could be more quickly achieved in Photoshop. By understanding the strengths of each tool, artists can work faster while maintaining creative flexibility for color and mood exploration.

Duration: 36m 55s

This lesson explains why color scripts serve as a communication tool and directional guide. Getting the mood, lighting, and atmosphere correct is far more valuable than achieving perfect detail. By focusing on what matters most, artists can produce multiple panels that successfully guide the final 3D rendering and animation work.

Duration: 31m 59s

This lesson demonstrates a kitbashing workflow in Blender, transforming premade 3D kits into customized scene elements. By taking the time to separate merged objects into individual assets, rather than being limited to the original configuration of the kit, artists can expand their creative possibilities and build more unique environments.

Duration: 24m 11s

This lesson demonstrates how, by using Blender's Eevee render engine to generate strategic render passes and using custom shader techniques, artists can generate highly detailed base images in relatively short timeframes. A multi-layer EXR approach provides flexibility in post-production, while a reusable scene setup allows for creating multiple shots with minimal additional effort, making this process significantly more time-efficient than traditional painting methods.

Duration: 17m 21s

This lesson emphasizes that effective matte painting relies heavily on proper setup and organization. By using Blender's render passes intelligently in Photoshop, artists can transform 3D renders into production-ready painted environments. The approach of alternating between photobashing, manual painting, and adjustment layers allows for gradual refinement that maintains flexibility during production.

Duration: 28m 12s

The final lesson in the workshop emphasizes that technical skills must be paired with strong communication practices for successful production work. By maintaining clear dialogue between departments, organizing work properly, and keeping team members informed of any changes, artists can improve workflow efficiency and final product quality.

Duration: 1m 26s