Next Steps
"The source of genius is imagination alone, the refinement of the senses that sees what others do not see, or sees them differently." - DelacroixBecause of the flexibility of the layering process, you can add as many layers into this scene as you want. For example, a second cooling tower in the distance would create another level of depth in the composition. This would make the buildings seem like they were a part of a larger complex and not just a single cooling tower standing alone.
Another layer to add to this scene would be a flying debris or windblown sand effect. This is easily achieved using the particle systems you'll learn about in Chapter 8, "Trompe L'oeil: The Art of Visual Effects."
The clouds in this scene are nice but bland. Some experiments with a Video Post or Render Effects glow effect could yield a more intense or weird alien appearance. Of course, a glowing UFO flying through the background sky would be appropriate to this project (see Figure CP.12).
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All these layer options can be achieved by using the techniques described in this Workshop coupled with the power of your own imagination. Chapter 6, "Machines in Motion: Modeling and Kinematics," is next. You'll learn how to create and animate a simple machine using max's IK system. You'll also learn a powerful modeling technique used to create the interior environment of the power plant inside the Area 51 cooling tower.