Top Online 3Ds Max Tutorials for Beginners & Pros (2025)
Highly curated best 3Ds Max tutorials for beginners. Start with the best 3Ds Max tutorials and learn 3d Max rendering & editing as a beginner.
The Best 3Ds Max online courses and tutorials for beginners to learn 3Ds Max language in 2025.
3Ds Max is an industry-leading 3d software used widely in various fields of 3d, including but not limited to video games, film, medical illustration, architectural illustration, animation, industrial design, and concept art.
It is best known for its modeling and rendering tools. Its strengths come into play in architecture, manufacturing, game development, industrial design, and motion graphics. There are dozens of features and techniques to master, from sculpting and texturing to lighting and rendering.
Known for its versatility and ease of use, 3ds Max is a leading digital content creation package. Whether you are visualizing computer-aided designs, building game assets, or animating motion pictures, 3ds Max has the power and flexibility to meet the creative needs of your production.
Keeping this in mind, here at Coursesity, we have curated some of the Best Online 3ds Max tutorials with certification. This article targets individuals of all skill levels - beginners, intermediates, and advanced users - seeking to learn or improve their proficiency in 3ds Max.
Top 3Ds Max Tutorials, Courses, & Certifications List
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1. 3ds Max + V-Ray: 3ds Max PRO in 6 hrs (Udemy)
In this 3ds Max course, you will learn Arch viz from the beginning in a professional way, using the PRO software and a PRO workflow. The course teaches 3ds Max and V-Ray from the very beginning. It demonstrates the exact workflow that is used daily by practicing professionals.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- understand 3ds Max + V-Ray from scratch by creating your first arch viz project in this course.
- take your rendering knowledge from basic to pro by following along with multiple projects using a pro workflow.
- become comfortable creating with the two industry-standard software packages, 3ds Max and V-Ray.
- use Photoshop for texture creation and post-processing of your renderings.
- understand Vray materials, lighting, and cameras.
- provide the foundation for starting a career in 3d visualization.
- complete your first photoreal, professional rendering using 3ds Max and Vray.
- improve your lighting, composition, and post-processing skills.
- start creating professional-looking 3d visualization by following along with the course projects.
- adjust your knowledge for the most up-to-date versions of the software.
The 3ds max course includes:
- How to get the software as a free trial and start finding your way around. You will also go over how to customize your UI for a professional workflow.
- Start with the basics of modeling. The course will show you different techniques, and you will begin to work on your project.
- Modeling down, in which you will go into V-Ray and start playing with lighting, materials, cameras, render settings, etc.
- Finally, you will learn how to enhance your images with Photoshop.
- Being able to create architectural renderings on your own with a completely professional setup and workflow.
- Once you have completed your first project and learned the basics, then you will move into more advanced techniques.
It shows you everything you need to know on how to create a basic project. Moreover, you will learn some advanced techniques like HDRI lighting with more complex and advanced projects.
This is certainly one of the best 3ds max tutorials available on Udemy by Adam Zollinger.
- Course rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 (4,576 Rating total)
- Duration: 23 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
2. 3ds Max Complete Overview: Learn 3d Graphics Fast and Easy (Udemy)
In this 3ds Max course, you will learn how to use 3ds Max to follow along with some diverse 3d projects and finish with a strong knowledge of 3d software and tools. This course is comprehensive, in that it covers all the major concepts of 3d. In the end, you will learn to be able to create your own graphics. The projects include techniques that will be useful in different disciplines.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- Create your own 3d projects from scratch within a few hours.
- Gain a strong understanding of 3d concepts and 3ds Max tools in just 7 hrs.
- Be comfortable finding your way around the 3ds Max UI.
- Create multiple 3d projects from beginning to end.
- Create their own models, materials, and renderings in 3ds Max.
- Use built-in poly modeling tools to create photo-real 3d models.
- Create basic 3d models for video games.
- Animate objects and cameras in 3ds Max.
- Understand the concepts of 3d graphics and know how to apply them using 3ds Max.
You will learn to get a firm grasp of 3d graphics in 3ds Max. You will understand the theory behind 3d graphics as they apply to various fields. You will also be able to navigate around the software comfortably. Most importantly, you will be able to confidently create your own projects, whether it be modeling, animation, or game content creation.
You can take the 3ds Max Complete Overview for Beginners Certificate Course on Udemy.
- Course rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 (1,969 Rating total)
- Duration: 12.5 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
3. 3ds Max 2020 Essential Training (Linkedin Learning)
This 3ds Max 2020 essential training course covers 3DS Max from the ground up, providing an overview of the entire package, as well as essential skills that 3D artists need to create professional models and animations. You will learn how to get around the 3ds Max interface and customize it to suit your preferences.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- create professional models and animations.
- get around the 3Ds Max interface and customize it to suit your preferences.
- model different objects using splines, polygons, subdivision surfaces, and freeform modeling.
The course includes:
- Customizing User Interface and Defaults.
- 3Ds Max Interface.
- Scene Layout.
- Spline Modeling.
- Parametric Modeling with Modifiers.
- Polygon Modeling.
- Subdivision Surface Modeling.
- Freeform Modeling.
- Camera Techniques.
- Lighting and Materials.
- Mapping Textures and Hierarchies.
- Keyframe Animation.
- Rendering.
Moreover, you will discover how to model different objects using splines, polygons, subdivision surfaces, and freeform modeling. The course also shows how to construct hierarchies, add cameras and lights, and animate with keyframes. Watch full 3ds max 2020 essential training videos and learn how to construct hierarchies, add cameras and lights, animate with keyframes, and more.
You can take the LinkedIn 3ds max 2020 essential training course on LinkedIn Learning Online.
- Course rating: 4.7 out of 5.0
- Duration: 11 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
4. 3ds Max + Vray: Advanced Architectural Exteriors (Udemy)
This course will introduce you to the tools you need to improve your Vray renderings. The course begins with a basic model and after that, it will guide you through the process of making it much more interesting and dramatic, using advanced techniques and tools.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- use the project files to create an advanced exterior rendering with all the latest tools & techniques.
- add new advanced tools (like Substance Designer) to your workflow and improve the quality of your images.
- dramatically improve your rendering skills.
- create an advanced rendering for your arch-viz portfolio.
- take renderings from basic to brilliant.
The curriculum covers a wide array of topics, including advanced modeling considerations, where students will learn intricate modeling techniques to create complex and detailed 3D models. Additionally, the course explores advanced lighting workflows, providing insights into creating realistic lighting setups and achieving desired visual effects.
Participants will also delve into advanced material creation, gaining expertise in developing custom materials to bring their designs to life. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to explore new professional tools that have revolutionized the field of 3D design, including Quixel Megascans, Forest Pack PRO / Lite, Substance Designer, Quixel Mixer, Substance Materials, and PBR materials.
You can take the 3ds Max + Vray: Advanced Architectural Exteriors Certificate Course on Udemy.
- Course rating: 4.1 out of 5.0
- Duration: 9.5 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
5. Ultimate 3ds Max + V-Ray Photorealistic 3D Rendering Course (Udemy)
In this course, you will learn how to create photorealistic 3D Renderings with 3ds Max and V-Ray. The course focuses on how to master the 3D Rendering Workflow and have the knowledge to create photorealistic images every time.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- understand the essential tools for modeling, mapping, materials, lighting, and rendering.
- start earning money from your CGI Skills.
- have 4 of your own images added to your portfolio?
- create your own 3D rendering studio scene.
- write your own 3ds Max Scripts to speed up your work by up to 80%.
- create photorealistic images from scratch.
- know to create photorealistic images every time.
- know the secrets the professionals use to stand out from the crowd.
- understand the value of systems and how to use them.
- understand how professional studios work.
- master the workflow pros use day-to-day to make 3D renders.
- have the skills needed to work in the 3D rendering industry.
- improve your 3D rendering quality.
- use client plans and DWG files.
- source 3D models for projects.
- comfortably navigate 3ds Max and render photo-real images with V-Ray.
- model your own 3ds Max interior scene.
- use V-Ray Fur.
- comfortably create V-Ray Materials and UVW Mapping.
- light a 3ds Max scene with HDRI lights.
The course includes:
- How to model from plans.
- How to copy and paste between 3ds Max scenes.
- How to quickly find 3D Assets.
- How to add furniture and accessories.
- How the pros create wooden floors and tiles.
- Camara Creation.
- Lights setups.
- How to create materials with V-Ray.
- How to use the UVW modifiers.
- How to use Multi Subobjects.
- Adding materials to your 3ds Max scene.
- Creating a Final render with V-Ray.
- Post-production in Adobe Photoshop.
You can take Interior 3D Rendering with 3ds Max + V-Ray: The Quickest Way Certificate Course on Udemy.
- Course rating: 4.2 out of 5.0
- Duration: 10.5 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
6. Learning 3ds Max 2020 (Linkedin Learning)
In this 3ds Max 2020 essential training course, you will learn to leverage the power of 3ds Max for modeling, rendering, and animation. This introductory training course covers foundational 3ds Max tools, concepts, and techniques. This course leads you through the basics of the 3ds Max interface, as well as core concepts and techniques.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- leverage the power of 3ds Max for modeling, rendering, and animation.
- understand the basics of the 3ds Max interface.
- use tools to make models with 3D objects, and edit polygonal meshes.
- create surfaces and models with 2D shapes and splines.
The course includes:
- First Steps
- Modeling
- Shading and Materials
- Lighting
- Layout and Animation
- Rendering
You can learn how to use its many tools to make models with 3D objects, edit polygonal meshes, and create surfaces and models with 2D shapes and splines. Moreover, you will learn how to have a firm foundation upon which you can build further skills in 3ds Max.
You can take the Learning 3ds Max 2020 Essential Training Certificate Course on LinkedIn.
- Duration: 3.4 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
7. 3D Visualization For Beginners: Interior Scene with 3DS MAX (Udemy)
In this 3ds Max course, you will learn how to create stunning images with 3DSMAX, Corona Renderer, and Photoshop. Here, you will learn to master the knowledge of how to create stunning 3D renderings and become a fully job-ready person in the industry. Moreover, you will also learn how you can create your own 3D visualization firm.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- create a beautiful interior scene using 3DS MAX and Corona rendering engine.
- post-process 3d renderings inside Photoshop.
- master other advanced topics such as animation or visual effects.
- become a job-ready person in the 3D visualization industry.
First, you will cover the fundamental stuff in 3DS MAX. Then you will move on to different 3D modeling techniques. The course covers a lot of exercise projects designed to develop your skills step-by-step. After that, you are going to deepen your knowledge of lighting, material, and rendering using the Corona rendering engine. Your final project is to build an interior scene from scratch; from modeling, texturing, lighting, rendering, and finally retouching it in Photoshop.
You can take 3D Visualization For Beginners: Interior Scene with 3DS MAX Certificate Course on Udemy.
- Course rating: 4.6 out of 5.0
- Duration: 13 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
8. 3ds Max & Vray: Advanced Arch Viz Interior Projects (Udemy)
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to use 3ds Max, Vray, and Marvelous Designer tools to create advanced models, textures, lighting, and overall rendering. Here, you will learn the professional workflow and tools that are used in the industry to achieve stunning, photorealistic results in 3d. Industry-standard tools including 3ds Max, Vray, Marvelous Designer, and Photoshop are all used and demonstrated in this course.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- use the provided project to create a photorealistic interior rendering using advanced techniques with 3ds Max + Vray.
- understand the necessary tools, tips, and tricks to make your images really stand out as professional & photorealistic.
- model custom furniture using Polygon tools and other 3ds Max tools.
- model cloth objects using cloth simulation in Marvelous Designer.
- use all the settings of the 3ds Max Physical Camera in order to improve composition.
- achieve perfect light exposure for your renderings.
- use Vray lights, including HDRI dome lights, to create natural-looking lighting to achieve photorealism.
- understand UVW mapping for complex models.
- create custom advanced textures/materials in Photoshop and Vray to achieve photorealism.
- understand Vray settings that contribute to photorealism, speed, and quality.
- experiment with atmospherics, lens flare, and light bloom, all within 3ds Max / Vray to enhance your scenes.
- make your image pop with professional post-processing techniques in Photoshop.
Moreover, you will create a professional arch viz interior by the end. With the help of all sorts of tips and tricks, workflow techniques, and tools in advanced software packages, you will gather in this course, all while creating your own custom-rendered scene to add to your portfolio.
You can take the 3ds Max & Vray: Advanced Arch Viz Interior Projects Certificate Course on Udemy.
- Course rating: 4.0 out of 5.0
- Duration: 10 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
9. Introduction to Lighting in 3ds Max 2009 (Pluralsight)
In this 3ds Max course, Introduction to Lighting in 3ds Max, you will learn an essential workflow to lighting in 3ds Max and fundamental techniques for establishing moods and adding greater realism to your scenes through lighting. This course is ideal for new and beginning artists and contains over two hours of project-based training.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn the following topics:
- Introduction and Project Overview
- Introduction to Lighting in 3ds Max 2009
Throughout the course, you'll explore a range of topics designed to deepen your understanding of lighting principles and techniques. Highlights include an overview of standard light types and photometric lights, enabling you to effectively control light decay and attenuation to achieve desired effects. Learn how to model environments to scale for accurate lighting and utilize shadow maps and raytraced shadows for efficient rendering.
Additionally, you'll delve into real-world lighting profiles with photometric lights, master exposure controls to view HDR renders, and explore outdoor lighting techniques using the Daylight System and Skylight. Enhance your scenes further by altering rendering controls for objects, adding glow effects to geometry and lights, and creating volumetric lighting effects.
Furthermore, you'll gain insight into advanced lighting techniques such as radiosity to simulate indirect illumination and utilizing the Light Lister to streamline your workflow. Plus, learn how to create stunning Gobo effects to add depth and visual interest to your scenes.
You can take the Introduction to Lighting in 3ds Max Certificate Course on Pluralsight.
- Duration: 2.2 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
10. 3ds Max Beginners Course (Udemy)
This course is designed for those with no prior experience in 3DS max or 3d modeling in general. In this comprehensive beginner course, you will start with a tour of the 3ds max 2019 interface then you will look at setting up 3ds max to your liking. After that, you will look at creating basic objects and shapes then you will move to more advanced modeling and learn polygonal modeling tools.
In this 3ds max tutorial, you will learn how to:
- understand all 3ds Max basics and go beyond.
- go beyond intermediate at 3ds Max level.
- create your own projects in 3ds Max.
Next, you will take a look at spline modeling and after that, you will combine polygonal and spline modeling tools together to create beautiful objects. Also, you will take a look at creating cameras and setting up your scene for lighting and materials then you will look at creating and managing materials.
Moreover, you will look at UVW mapping then you will look at Arnold lights. After that, you will look at rendering. Next, you will use the tools you have learned to create real-world objects. Then, you will look at animation tools and animate your objects.
You can take the 3ds Max Beginners Course Certificate Course on Udemy.
- Course rating: 4.3 out of 5.0
- Duration: 6 Hours
- Certificate: Certificate of completion
Thank you for reading this. We hope our course curation will help you to pick the right course to learn 3ds, Max. In case you want to explore more, you can take the free 3ds Max courses.
Hey! If you have made it this far then certainly you are willing to learn more and here at Coursesity, it is our duty to enlighten people with knowledge on topics they are willing to learn. Here are some more topics that we think will be interesting for you!
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FAQs:
How to learn 3ds Max online?
Online platforms such as Udemy, YouTube, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of tutorials and courses for learning 3ds Max. Choose a course that suits your skill level and learning preferences, and practice regularly to master the software.
What is the salary of a 3D Max professional?
According to AmbitionBox, a 3D MAX Designer salary in India with less than 1 year of experience to 9 years ranges from ₹ 0.3 Lakhs to ₹ 4.8 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 2.5 Lakhs based on 85 latest salaries.
How to learn 3ds Max online for free?
You can learn 3ds Max online for free through platforms like YouTube, which offers a plethora of tutorial videos and guides created by experienced professionals. Additionally, some websites may offer free trial courses or limited-time access to premium content.
What is the cost of a 3ds Max online course?
The cost of a 3ds Max online course varies depending on factors such as course duration, instructor credentials, and platform reputation. Some courses may provide free courses like Udemy, while others may require a one-time payment or subscription fee.