CGNUGGETS FAQ

What is cgnuggets?

It's a subscription video service that focuses on the artistic approach to creating high-end 3D characters using Zbrush, 3dsmax, and Photoshop. The approach is mainly from an artistic and anatomical direction but I'll also offer technical shortcuts and tips that aid in making the process a more enjoyable one. After being in the industry for 11 years and owning my own successful and growing studio, I want to pass on my knowledge, techniques, and workflow that I've gathered from my own experience, self-education, and inspring artists. My hopes are to not only educate students, hobbyists, and professionals but to inspire artists to take their work to the next level. Of course, that all depends on your determination and time you put in to becoming better at what you do. My part is to provide you some of the things that have helped me along my career path.

How much does it cost?

$10.00 per month for one 60-90 minute video every month

How does it work?


Once you subscribe, once a month you will be emailed a link to a new video. Each video lasts around 60-90 minutes and in that time I take the experience and knowledge that I've gained over my career (and still currently gaining) and pass it on to my faithful subscribers. You get to keep the videos for later use and reference as well. Ain't that nice?

What if I don't have a Paypal account?

Once you hit the subscribe button, there will be an option for you to use one of the credit cards seen in the link instead of using a Paypal account.

How is this any different than other tutorials out on the internet?

Um, did you see the price?! Truth be told, I've been somewhat disappointed in the depth of education that goes into some (not all) programs and dvds that are meant to aid the artist in getting going in their career. And the ones that are any good are quite expensive in comparison. Also, I'm not going to timelapse every video so you're watching me do this stuff ridiculously fast. I think you'll learn more by seeing some real-time workflow as I walk you through the steps and techniques.

I'm not looking to become rich off these videos. I'm just interested in providing good content every month that you leaves you satisified and filled up with good ol' fashioned knowledge.

When does a new video come out?

I'll usually give you some notice before the videos come out and what it will be most likely covering. It'll most likely be around the end of the month.

Is there a basic lesson plan you are following?

Yes and no. I do have main topics I want to teach on and most of them deal with the actual aspect of art creation. I don't want to get bogged down with describing what every algorithm in ZBrush does and force myself to use every single feature to create a piece. The whole idea is to show how I work and how simple it can be if you don't complicate the process. I also like the idea of being able to hang onto a certain part of a project for educational purposes. But on the other hand, I definitely don't want to drag anything on and waste your time and bore you to death.

What range of topics do you cover and is this for beginners only?

These videos are intended for all levels actually. With every character or project that I tackle, there are parts of the process that are very simple that are good for beginners to learn as well as parts that are a lot more advanced that will just take repeated practice on your part to understand and incorporate to your own workflow and techniques. The topics I plan on cover include basic modeling and sculpting principles, anatomy, proportion, observation, and execution. Also, making use of many of the great features of Zbrush. The idea is to show that Zbrush (and some 3dsmax) are only tools and how you have to be in control of how to use them in order to bring your ideas to life.

Can I send you my personal work for some critique and suggestions?

Unfortunately, with the amount of people that will be subscribing to this service, I just can't promise to take time to look at everyone's work on an individual basis. I would suggest posting your work on the ZBC forums as well as other great online forums that will aid in getting further critique for your work. I continue to do that with my work and it has always been beneficial to my growth.

Are you concerned about piracy since these are just simple video files?

Well, not really.. I just don't think it would be worth my time and effort to incorporate encryption or rights management since people always figure out ways around that sort of thing. My hopes are that the content will be appreciated by you the viewer and will want your fellow artist friends to pay the same amount you did. I believe that honesty is the best policy and people who live by the truth tend to have a more fulfilling life, but hey, what do I know? :)

How can I get past months' videos if I haven't subscribed from the beginning?

Go to the "Add to Cart" button on the home page and choose however many videos you would like to purchase through the Paypal window. Then just email me at jessesandifer@gmail.com and I can send you a link to your chosen videos. (see FAQ #2).

I lost all my previous videos in an unfortunate hard drive crash. Do I have to repay for the past videos I used to have?

No, I'd feel really awful about hitting you up twice for a video when you're going through horrible agony after such an event. Email me and I'll send you the links again at no extra cost. Next time, back up your files dude! :)


Are there homework assignments with cgnuggets?

Nah. It's merely a passage of information from my brain to yours. I've taken the knowledge from my own experiences and from other great artists so just think of this as a portal of info and a chance to see how I do things.

Do you promise to do your very best teaching in these videos so I feel like I'm getting my money's worth?

Why yes, yes I will. :)

How do I unsubscribe?

Click here. You will be missed.