How is the class designed?
mental ray is a framework. We give our students the ability to understand how this framework can be used, and extended. We provide a fundamental understanding with which available resources can be more readily utilized.
Who are your trainers?
Production experienced software development managers with a common goal to make mental ray knowledge accessible. We simplify concepts and convey tools and techniques that make learning interesting.
What software do you train on?
We train with newest standalone mental ray versions, Linux/Mac OSX/Win XP. Each attendee will receive a non-commercial use license, which is included and paid for with the class fees.
Does mental images offer Custom Training?
We do offer this course as an in-house training class which primarily follows the class curriculum. For further exploration we offer consulting services to enhance your own learning, or we can follow up with a training class specializing in a deeper topic focusing on your needs.
What about Consulting?
We offer consulting services, both on-site and remote, on an hourly or daily basis. Our consultants have the production experience to handle your individual rendering needs and they are backed up directly by the development staff of mental images in Berlin.
Sharing results, how does the community build itself a knowledgebase?
The LAmrUG website features a Phenomena and shader sharing resource section and forum. The shaders section of the forum is especially suited to graduates of the training class, as it provides an interactive place to share with colleagues and the instructors.
Where does this happen?
Our first courses will be run in Los Angeles, California. Other locations are being planned and we do offer on-site training.
Will this get me a job?
mental images is constantly being contacted to provide names for people with mental ray experience in shader writing and usage. The LAmrUG site has a section devoted to matching employers with people available, and in part this class is an answer to provide a greater number of those available. This class is not a guarantee, but definitely a solid background for positions opening up constantly in the industry.