LightWave 3D

Software Overview

LightWave 3D is a computer graphics application artists and animators use to create professional-looking 3D graphics and animations. It provides many tools for creating and manipulating graphics and animations. Various industries, including TV, film, architecture, advertising, and video game development, have utilized the software. LightWave Digital (formerly NewTek) develops LightWave 3D.

LightWave can render both animated and static 3D images utilizing a large pallet of tools for creating and manipulating images. You can surface your 3D elements using a quick layer-based system, a more involved but powerful nodal system, or both. LightWave also includes effective procedural, nodal, and keyframe animation tools to help bring your 3D creations to life.

There are many features that LightWave provides that make it easy to add CGI effects during the movie-making process. With Virtual Studio Tools, a movie crew can walk a set with cameras and other input devices, and LightWave will create a virtual replica of the set. It can even reproduce the lighting that is on the set.

Summary

LightWave is an excellent 3D animation solution for smaller companies that don't have large budgets for programs like Maya. However, while it is a lot less expensive than similar products from Autodesk, LightWave is still quite costly and probably not ideal for those who are simply looking to dip their toes into 3D graphics.

Primary File Type

.LWSLightWave 3D Scene

Supported File Types

Additional Related File Types