[dragon_lover_freak]

I've been wanting to get into 3-D modeling for quite some time now so I got lightwave not too long ago. Yay!... so, now what?

I know I should take tutorials, but I never can seem to find any that are for complete beginners like myself. I have know idea what to do, I want to model some things I've drawn eventully but I don't know how to work any tools, switch views, UV map, nothing!

Does anyone know where I can find some online tutorials that explain some of the things I need to learn such as the layout of modeler, what all the tools do, 3-D terms ect. Once I do that I'd like to model so, how to create a model? As you can tell, I don't know anything yet and this is the first place I'm checking out. I thought it might be useful to post in a lightwave based forum... So, experienced Lightwavers... could you help out a newbie please?

[Mark]

Right, the first place you should start is with the manual. There's little point in undertaking anything until you learn how the software and associated tools function.

I'd also suggest getting the 'Inside Lightwave' book by Dan Ablan as this is an excellent complement to the manual.

Next, take a look at some of the freebie tutorials on this site here to get an understanding of some of the basics (such as the coffee cup tutorial and the introduction to layout tutorial). After that, progress onto some of the more in-depth ones such as the lava lamp, ocean and tree tutorials. Finally, start tackling the more advanced ones such as the stratocaster, Mclaren and Alien tutes.

[rwhunt99]

I'm new too, I bought a lot of books including Dan Ablan's book which is very good. I also have tim albees book - Lightwave essentials another great book that will get you kick started into becoming productive. lots of tutes online also. There is so much to lightwave that it will take much time to really get a handle on how powerful this program is.

recently Newtek had a special for Lightwave that included I believe four books involving lighting by Nicholas Boughen, texturing by - Leigh Van Der Byl and 1001 tips and Tricks by a large group of talented lightwave artists.

As for myself, I'm learning a lot and realizing just how much I still need to learn. Practice is the key Good luck!