This site is an exploration of the Python scripting language and its recent implementation within Side Effects 3D application Houdini. We will look how Python can be used in order to aid artists through the creation of tools to simplify workflow. Houdini’s out of the box solution can be quite daunting initially, and by extending it with tools to automate tasks inside and outside of the software, an artist’s workflow can be greatly improved.
The site is centred around the Tool Creation pages where I will take you through the tool development workflow, through the creation of a Rendering Pipeline aid for Houdini. During the step by step guide to using Python in Houdini we will explore some of the fundamentals of the Python language; for loops, functions and methods for example. Here we will also look at creating a graphical user interface in order to enhance Houdini. The Tool Creation section will be completed with access to the full script and an analysis of the script's success.
Initially we will take a quick look at the concept of using Python in Houdini and finish with it's importance in the VFX industry.
Introduction