Model a Detailed High Poly Fire Hydrant in 3ds Max

Subdivision modeling is a skill like any other...it is relatively easy to grasp the basics, but it can be extremely difficult to get a handle on the the more advanced techniques. In this two hour long, intermediate/ advanced level modeling tutorial, Ben Tate will demonstrate his process of creating a detailed high-poly fire hydrant using subdivision modeling.

Ben will begin by demonstrating how to build the main body, and manually add edge loops in order to extrude one cylinder from another without losing the smooth cylindrical shape (one of the most difficult tasks accomplish when modeling in sub-d). Next, he will show you how to re-work the topology, add support edges, and make adjustments to minimize any artifacts created by the subdivision. Finally, with the most challenging piece out of the way, he will walk you through the creation of the other parts of the hydrant using a wide variety of different modifiers and poly modeling techniques.

Additional Files/ Plugins:

Download the Reference Materials for this tutorial

Note: click the 'Monitor' icon to view tutorial in full-screen HD.