Houdini SideFX Apprentice: Unlocking New Dimensions of Character FX

In the latest release of Houdini, SideFX has introduced a plethora of exciting updates that will revolutionize the world of character FX. One of the most notable additions is the new feather grooming and look dev workflow, designed specifically for character artists. With these GPU-accelerated tools, animators can generate and groom feathers with unprecedented ease and speed.

At its core, the new feather system relies on guide curves to control the overall form of each feather. By adjusting attributes or painting texture masks, users can modify the curves to achieve a wide range of effects. The system is also capable of displaying a groom as a 2D array of feathers that can be selected and edited individually using standard tools.

In addition to the new feather system, Houdini 20 marks the beginning of a new development arc for machine learning integration. According to SideFX, this technology will 'touch every fiber' of the software, paving the way for a more intuitive and efficient workflow.

The animation tools in Houdini 20 are also making significant strides. APEX, the artist-friendly character rigging and animation context, is being introduced in beta form. While still early in development, this new system promises to simplify the process of creating complex animations.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Houdini 20 is its comprehensive update to rendering. The Karma XPU render engine has officially become production-ready, while initial support for Vulkan marks the beginning of a new real-time cinematic renderer that will eventually rival traditional render engines.

Overall, Houdini 20 is a significant release that sets the stage for future development arcs. With its emphasis on machine learning and character FX, this software is poised to revolutionize the world of animation and visual effects. For those interested in learning more about the new features, SideFX has released a two-hour video showcasing the latest updates in detail.

By combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly tools, Houdini 20 promises to take animators and VFX artists to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this software is sure to inspire creativity and push the boundaries of what's possible in character FX.

Houdini sidefx apprentice