Understanding the Basics of XPresso in CINEMA 4D
In this CINEMA 4D tutorial we will learn how to use CINEMA 4D's node-based Expression System, XPresso. Software required: CINEMA 4D R14.
What you'll learn
In this CINEMA 4D tutorial we will learn how to use CINEMA 4D's node-based Expression System, XPresso. We will talk about the principles of XPresso, learn how we can create nodes and navigate in our node tree. After this short introduction we will cover what vectors and matrices are and what we can do with them. We will work our way through a few practical examples where we'll show you different nodes and techniques. Our final project will be a dynamic jellyfish rig which is fully driven by our node setup. Software required: CINEMA 4D R14.
Table of contents
- Introduction to the XPresso Editor 9m
- Data Types 9m
- Adding Vectors 7m
- Subtracting Vectors 8m
- Exploring a Matrix 7m
- Combining Different Units: The Range Mapper 10m
- Automate a Bouncing Ball 10m
- Extending the Setup with a Deformer 11m
- Integrating Slave Objects 7m
- Extending the Setup with an Iterator 9m
- Extending the Setup with Custom Offsets 10m
- Calculating the Circumference of a Tire 10m
- Making the Tire Roll 7m
- Extending the Setup 10m
- Banking Controls 11m
- Steering Controls 12m
- Planning the Setup 7m
- Jellyfish Body Movement 9m
- Morphing Two Targets 10m
- Delayed Deformers 9m
- Dynamic Materials 7m
- Giving the Tentacles Nice Motion 12m
- Creating a Controller for the Tentacles 11m
- Attaching the Tentacle Rig to the Body 9m
- Attaching the Dynamic Strings 10m
- Creating a Custom User Interface 8m
About the author
Simon Fiedler is a Freelance Digital Artist located in Mainz, Germany. He graduated at the University of applied sciences Mainz with his short "Droplets", which won several awards including the Animago Award 2011. Since 2008 he has been working as a digital artist with a focus on motion graphics, particles, dynamics, animation, compositing, and everything else that helps to tell a good story. Besides being an artist he was also involved with programs like IBC Amsterdam and the Maxon Roadshow as ... more