3DVIA®

mvcomputers (Matthew Viets in the non-virtual world) is a regular 3DVIA contributor that many 3DVIA vistors will immediately recognize from his profile thumbnail.

Matthew always has something positive to say about other models while uploading a steady stream of his own excellent 3D contributions. He has been our 3DVIA Challenge winner three times! His 3D cell phone, Pontiac dragster and Tank were chosen as Challenge winners.

Take a look at his 55 models (probably more by now) and you’ll see two other important parts of why Matthew is such a excellent 3D modeler; he has a great sense of humor and he’ll model just about anything! He’s always trying new things.

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?

I had seen how Disney Pixar made all their wonderful animations with 3DS Max and other 3D modeling programs. I became interested in in it, so I bought 3DS Max and began making simple shapes. Soon after playing around and reading lots of tutorials I was making much more complex models.

Q2: What types of 3D modeling do you do?

I play around with many types of modeling. I have recently been making animations and posting them on YouTube. My favorite form of modeling is what you see on 3DVIA, still models. I have also done a lot of modeling for Unreal Tournament 2003 and 2004 maps. I have published many maps for the game and it has been quite rewarding to see people from around the world enjoying playing them.

Q3: What role do your models play in the work you do?

For me, modeling is just a hobby. I would never sell my models for profit because if people get a kick out of them then they can have them. My reward is just to make people happy.

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?

I will spend anywhere from 10 minutes to several days depending on how much free time I have – mostly at night, when everyone is sleeping. lol

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your images?

Photoshop has been key in making textures for my models. 3DS Max is my 3D program of choice.

Q6: What is your work day like?

I run a small computer business designing custom built computer systems part time. Full time, I am a steel worker in a steel mill here in Ohio.

Q7: What are your tips for staying focused on a large project?

For me, key to keeping myself interested throughout a large project is to take lots of breaks. I always make sure I am modeling something that excites me and something that I have interest in; such as robotics, sci-fi vehicles, guns and architecture.

Q8: where do you go (websites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?

I don’t have to go anywhere for inspiration; wherever I am at any given time there are always things around that inspire me. All one has to do is just look around and use your imagination. As far as tips and help, I usually like to find good tutorials on the web.

Q9: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?

The most rewarding thing for me about modeling is the fact of knowing that “I made that!”. Another rewarding aspect of modeling is being able to help others, whether it is with positive support or with advice.

Q10: What is your favorite game? Movie? Comic Book?

My favorite game is Unreal Tournament 2003, 2004 and 2007. My favorite movie is the Lord of the Rings trilogy. I was never into comic books. lol

Q11: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?

Other than modeling, my best time is spent raising my son and spending as much time as possible with him and with my wife.

Thank you Matthew for answering our questions and for being such a valuable part of the 3DVIA community. Keep up the great models, comments and excellent humor!