One of the big differences between 3ds max 8 and 3dsmax6/7 is the new version of Mental Ray and bucket rendering. In the previous version, FG samples had to be quite large for a decent render, but now in max8, you can set the samples really low and still get good quality renderings. I've been utilizing the bucket rendering capabiltiy in Mental Ray and it's really fun. For example, in this
scene , which is part of my team's safety animation this year, I have 6 buckets rendering one frame. This is very helpful especially when I just want to test render; fast and efficient in my opinion. I've read in other forums that there's really no difference between network rendering w/ backburner and bucket rendering, but for us, it's working great.
However, I did encounter this
problem . I'm pretty sure the problem had to do with the HDRI image I had in the env. but I haven't looked any further into it since that scene was only a test render.
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Anyways, I think it's defintely worth the time and effort to transition into 3ds max8. the sub-object modeling tools have been enhanced for efficiency and workflow. I like the Bridge Edge function; sometimes, it's better than using CREATE in polygon sub-object mode, which you have to click on all the desired verticies to create the polygon. Also, the CONNECT tool in edge sub-d mode has two new features: pinch and slide; very useful. Furthermore, the CUT tool makes cleaner cuts. Lastly, I really like the new Manage Scene States tool.
-ky
