On Monday, in this first part of three, we took a look at one of the many options for motion graphics software, that being Apple Motion. Let’s take a look at another option out there, an open-source, free option.
With Blender, it is primarily used for 3D animation. Blender also has the flexibility in being available to work on Mac, Windows and Linux operating systems.
I first used Blender when I was trying to animate my personal logo for a demo reel.
I would say, of the three software programs that we’re discussing as part of this three-part series, I find that this user interface is the most intimidating. The complaint I hear most from friends that have used Blender, is that it is not intuitive. The first time you go to use Blender, you may feel overwhelmed, and have no clue where to start.
At the same time, though, Blender gives you tons of options and seems to be very powerful. Until you learn quick keys and where to find certain windows, though, it is probably going to make you want to smash your keyboard in frustration, as you are trying to figure things out.
However, one big pro to Blender are the add-ons that are available for this program. Since this is an open source software, many people have created tools that mimic the functionality of other software, to help you navigate around the vanilla clunky user interface. Just like in the world of video games.
If you want a mod or add-on, it probably already exists. If you’re wanting to jump right in, you may want to check out velosofy.com, for free Blender templates. The site seems to be uploading new templates all the time.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, there are hundreds of community forums out there, willing to design that add-on that fits your project. Installing the add-on is pretty easy. Download the add-on, then open Blender. Go the “File” menu, and select “User Preferences,” and click on the “Addons” tab. Go down to the bottom, and click the “Install from File” button, after which you locate the saved add-on. Click “Install from File” and the window will change, and you will need to enable the add-on.
From here, the add-on should be available in your dropdown menu. Depending on what version of Blender that you are using, these directions may vary slightly.
I first used Blender when I was trying to animate my personal logo for a demo reel. I am in no way a 3D artist, but I was able to successfully make a 3D version of my logo move across the screen in the manner that I had seen in my head.
To me, that right there says that almost anyone should be able to use this software; but just like any other design program, it takes time, patience and a lot of hard work to master this software.
One thing to consider when using Blender, is that it does tend to be a resource hog, and in my experience, has longer render times, compared to other programs out there.
If you don’t have hundreds of dollars to buy a 3D software, and aren’t in a time crunch, but want to learn 3D animation, I recommend giving Blender a try.
Check out this short, animated film that was created using Blender 2.8: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhWc3b3KhnY. You’re probably not going to be able to produce this quality of animation fresh out of the box but give it time.
Who knows, you might be the next one featured on Blender’s website.