3D Modeling with Poser

                            3D Modeling with Poser

 Pix for Stories   Pix for Fun

Above are links to images for scenes that I created with Poser for my writing or just for fun. Click the appropriate button to see them.


I wanted to create some 3D graphics to illustrate scenes from some of my stories and novels. I've been using a program called Poser.

Poser, from Renderosity, in its many versions, is not a typical 3D modeling program. Its function is to allow you to take preexisting 3D models, place them into a scene, and then pose them as you prefer. Poser does come with an assortment of "primitives" (basic shapes) which you can use to build simple models, but for complex things like humans, animals, spaceships, etc., you should rely on models that either come with Poser or can be purchased at the many sites which support the program.

I am currently using Poser Pro 11.3. The software does come with a "Reference Manual," but that seems a bit more useful to the advanced modeler than a newbie like me. The Renderosity site has some tutorials in their Community tab for those with an account with them. But I don't learn very well by watching someone go zip zip zip done. I like to be able to read the directions, try them, and try variations to see what happens. Searching the Internet did not turn up any tutorial books like "Poser Pro for Newbies." The best I could find was "Practical Poser 8: The Official Guide" by Richard Schrand. According to Poser's Technical Support, this book covers most everything I'd need except some of the very recent additions (which I guess newbies don't need to know about.)

As I've been learning to use Poser, I've been jotting down what I learn in a file that I call "Jack's Poser Pro Manual." If you want a really good tutorial, I'd suggest the Schrand book, but if you'd like to check out my thoughts and see what I've learned, click here for my PDF file. Just remember, 1) it's not a full-blown tutorial, and 2) it's meant for my own use. I update the file as I learn more, so if you find any of it useful, you might like to check back periodically.

You can find sources for models for Poser with a search of the Internet. The following are some that I have found useful: Renderosity, Poser World, DAZ 3D, and PoserWorks. Be VERY careful: Some of these sites carry products for Poser and for a similar program called DAZ Studio. Some products are compatible with only one of these. Also be aware that not all of the items shown in the advertising images actually come with the item advertised. For example, if you see an attractive new male or female character, what you see is not what you get: Their clothes and hair probably don't come with what you buy. Sellers are getting better about letting you know this, but not everybody does. Another caution: Don't just make sure that the item that interests you is for Poser--make sure that it is what you think it is. Sometimes items are add-ons/modifications for some figure or prop (which you may or may not have already). I don't know how many times I was ready to buy a new item of clothing for Michael 4 or Victoria 4, only to discover that it would only add a new variety of colors for the clothing item. For it to be of any use, I had to already own (or find out where to buy) the clothes. So, in addition to making sure that something interesting is compatible with Poser, make sure that you have anything that is also required!

 

Page Updated: 9 January 2021
Page Created: 27 March 2013