Autodesk 3ds Max Training: Intermediate

Advance your 3D design expertise with this two-day Intermediate 3ds Max course. Master advanced modelling, materials, lighting, and rendering to produce complex, professional 3D visuals. Strengthen your creative workflow and technical precision. Join now and refine your 3ds Max skills.

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Course Overview

This intermediate-level Autodesk 3ds Max course is designed for users who already have a basic understanding of the software and want to develop more sophisticated 3D modelling, animation, and rendering skills. Whether you work in design, architecture, visualisation, or entertainment, this course provides the techniques to bring your creative projects to life.

You’ll start by exploring mesh modelling and hard-surface techniques to build detailed and realistic 3D objects. You’ll then move on to dynamic simulations — using rigid bodies, cloth, and fluids to add movement and realism to your scenes. These essential tools allow you to simulate natural motion and physical behaviour within your projects.

The course also delves into advanced rendering techniques using Arnold (built-in) and V-Ray (third-party plugin). You’ll learn how to create daylight systems, interior and studio lighting setups, and optimise render settings for photorealistic results. Combined with your new materials, textures, and lighting control, these techniques will help you produce professional-quality imagery for design, film, or advertising.

Delivered in small groups at our London training studios or online, the course combines expert instruction with hands-on exercises. By the end of the two days, you’ll have mastered advanced modelling and rendering workflows, enabling you to produce detailed, realistic, and visually impressive 3D work.

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Dates

Next course starts on:19 Nov 2026

Intermediate Level

2 consecutive days
19 Nov 2026
If these dates don't suit you, let us know and we can arrange a Tailored 3ds Max Course, and change the content and the dates to fit.

Course Outline

Here is what you will learn on this 3ds Max course in more detail. Click the topics below to explore what is covered in each section.

Mesh modelling gives you complete control over shape and detail, making it ideal for precise hard-surface and organic designs. You’ll explore the full range of mesh tools to refine your geometry and achieve greater realism.

  • Introduction to mesh modelling tools in 3ds Max

  • Techniques for modelling hard-surface objects

  • Combining mesh modelling with procedural techniques

  • Manual editing and refinement of geometry

  • Creating custom objects and assets from scratch

Dynamic simulations bring physical realism to your 3D environments. In this section, you’ll learn how to use rigid bodies, collisions, and physical forces to create natural motion and believable animation effects.

  • Understanding and applying dynamic body systems

  • Working with rigid bodies and collision settings

  • Differences between kinematic, static, and dynamic objects

  • Simulating object interactions and environmental effects

  • Managing simulation settings for performance and accuracy

Cloth simulations allow you to add realism to soft surfaces and fabrics within your scenes. You’ll learn how to create and control cloth dynamics for everything from flags and curtains to upholstery and clothing.

  • Setting up and applying cloth simulations

  • Creating fabric materials for realistic effects

  • Simulating draped and folded cloth such as curtains, flags, and cushions

  • Managing collision objects and gravity for believable results

  • Adjusting simulation parameters for precision and performance

Fluid simulation adds another layer of realism, allowing you to represent liquids, smoke, and gases within your 3D environments. You’ll explore how to use 3ds Max fluid tools to simulate natural, dynamic effects.

  • Introduction to fluid dynamics and simulation concepts

  • Adjusting parameters such as viscosity and density

  • Simulating water, smoke, and liquid motion

  • Rendering fluid simulations with high-quality lighting and materials

  • Exporting and compositing fluid renders for final output

Rendering is where your work comes to life. This section focuses on achieving professional lighting, reflections, and shadows using both Arnold and V-Ray renderers. You’ll discover how to set up realistic scenes for both interior and exterior visualisation.

  • Using V-Ray and Arnold for professional-quality renders

  • Setting up daylight systems for accurate outdoor lighting

  • Simulating interior and studio lighting environments

  • Balancing render quality with speed and optimisation

  • Comparing and combining V-Ray and Arnold techniques for best results

What’s Included in Your Course

Every Docklands Media course comes with a range of added benefits to support your learning at no extra cost.

Course Certification

Course Certification

Receive an official certificate of completion to validate your training. Ideal for portfolios, CVs, or proving your skills in 3ds Max.

Lifetime Support

Lifetime Support

Access our email and phone support for a lifetime. Contact us with any technical questions related to what you have learned on your 3ds Max course.

Free Course Retake

Free Course Retake

Need a refresher? Retake the same 3ds Max course for free within 24 months. A great way to solidify your learning or get up to speed with new software updates.

Course Materials & Videos

Course Materials & Videos

Receive training notes, project files, and 7-day access to instructor-led video tutorials. Perfect for reinforcing key lessons and practising at your own pace.

Offers & Discounts

We're committed to providing the best training experience possible. That's why we offer a range of discounts and flexible payment options to make your 3ds Max course more accessible and affordable.

Group Bookings & Non-Profits

Group Bookings & Non-Profits

Get discounted rates when booking for two or more people, or if you're enrolling from a charity. Save 5–15% depending on your group size or institution type.

Early Bird Discount

Early Bird Discount

Book your 3ds Max course at least three months in advance and get 10% off. Secure your place early and save on top-quality creative training.

Money-Back Guarantee

Money-Back Guarantee

If you're not fully satisfied on the first day of your 3ds Max course, let us know. We'll do our best to make it right—or refund you in full. No hassle, no risk.

Instalment Plans

Instalment Plans

Spread the cost of your training over 3, 6, or 12 months. Our instalment plans help make creative learning more accessible, with interest rates as low as 5%.

Meet Your Instructor

Ricardo De Jesus

Ricardo De Jesus

Ricardo's skills are so diverse that it would be impossible to list them all. He is an extremely talented architect and CAD technician, as well as one of the very first Autodesk Certified Instructors in the UK. And all round CAD wiz!

Testimonials

Hear directly from professionals and teams who’ve trained with us, sharing their experiences and the impact our training has had on their creative journeys.

Practical development for professional projects

I found this course very practical for developing intermediate skills in 3ds Max. It covered modelling, animation, lighting, and materials, with exercises that reinforced learning. The course gave me more confidence to handle professional-level 3D projects.

EM
Ella Morgan3D Artist

Well-structured path to level up skills

The Intermediate 3ds Max course helped me improve modelling, animation, and lighting workflows. The exercises were realistic, allowing me to apply the techniques to practical projects. The course is clear, well-structured, and useful for anyone looking to level up from beginner skills.

LE
Leo EllingtonMotion Graphics Graduate

Solid balance of theory and practice

This course focused on intermediate 3D modelling, animation, and lighting. I appreciated the balance of theory and practical exercises, which helped me improve my workflow and confidence. Overall, it's a solid course for building intermediate-level 3D skills.

CS
Chloe Scott3D Animator

Realistic practice for skill progression

I learned intermediate techniques for modelling, animation, and materials through this course. The exercises helped me practice and apply the skills in a realistic way. The course is practical and well-suited to anyone progressing from beginner 3ds Max training.

OK
Oliver KingVFX Intern

Clear structure with practical reinforcement

The course was clear and structured, covering intermediate modelling, animation, and lighting. The practical exercises were particularly useful in reinforcing the lessons. I feel more confident applying these techniques in real 3D projects.

JW
Joanna Wright3D Visualiser

Balanced instruction with hands-on learning

This course helped me understand intermediate workflows in 3ds Max. I improved my modelling, animation, and lighting skills while learning to optimise scenes efficiently. It's a practical course that balances instruction with hands-on learning.

NC
Nathan CarterMotion Graphics Designer

Good step up from beginner training

The Intermediate 3ds Max course covered important topics like modelling, animation, lighting, and material workflows. The hands-on exercises made learning practical, and I felt I could apply the skills to personal or client projects. A good step up from beginner-level training.

FW
Freya Wilson3D Animator

Confidence-building without being overwhelming

I gained a solid understanding of intermediate modelling, animation, and lighting through this course. The exercises were relevant and helped me build confidence in applying these techniques. Overall, it's a useful course for expanding 3D skills without being overwhelming.

HF
Hassan FarahVFX Designer

Practical insights for real 3D projects

This course provided a clear pathway to improve intermediate skills in 3ds Max. I particularly found the lessons on animation and lighting useful, and the exercises helped me apply the concepts to real 3D projects. It's a practical course with some good insights.

LT
Lily Turner3D Artist

Logical progression with reinforced techniques

The Intermediate 3ds Max course helped me refine my modelling and animation skills while introducing more advanced workflows. I liked how each lesson built logically on the last, and the exercises reinforced the techniques well. It's a reliable course for anyone wanting practical experience.

JH
Jack HughesMotion Graphics Assistant

Clear lessons with helpful exercises

I learned a lot from this course, including animation techniques, material workflows, and lighting setups. The lessons were clear and the exercises helpful. The course structure made it easy to follow and practice the concepts effectively.

SM
Sophia Mason3D Animator

Practical skills for actual projects

This Intermediate 3ds Max course taught me how to handle more advanced modelling, animation, and lighting workflows. The exercises were realistic and helped me understand how to apply the skills in actual projects. Overall, it's a practical and useful course for anyone looking to progress in 3D design.

MW
Michael WrightVFX Intern

Thorough coverage with hands-on practice

The course covers intermediate modelling, lighting, animation, and material techniques thoroughly. I enjoyed the way lessons encouraged hands-on practice, which really helped me retain the information. The course is well-structured and gave me the confidence to create more complex 3D scenes.

DW
Daniel Wainwright3D Visualiser

Well-paced guide beyond the basics

This course guided me through intermediate 3ds Max concepts, including more detailed modelling, animation, and material application. The lessons were well-paced, and I found the practical exercises particularly useful. It's a course I would recommend to anyone wanting to move beyond the basics.

HA
Halima AbdiMotion Graphics Designer

Clear and structured skill development

The Intermediate 3ds Max course helped me build on my beginner skills in a clear and structured way. I learned more complex modelling techniques, intermediate animation workflows, and lighting setups. The exercises were practical and realistic, and I appreciated how the course encouraged me to experiment. Overall, it's a solid course for developing confidence in 3D projects.

JD
Julia Denham3D Artist

Clients

As well as creative individuals, we are also the preferred training provider for some of the most successful global brands and organisations.

4
Accenture
Amazon
American Express
Apple
Army
Arsenal FC
BBC
Bentley
Boeing
Cabinet Office
Canary Wharf Group
Chanel
Chelsea
Cisco
Costa
Currys
Deloitte
Disney
DK
Dyson
Excel
F1
Figma
Financial Times
Food Standards Agency
Fujifilm
Global
Google
GOV.UK
Harrods
Heathrow
HSBC
IBM
Itsu
ITV
Jaguar
JCDecaux
4
Accenture
Amazon
American Express
Apple
Army
Arsenal FC
BBC
Bentley
Boeing
Cabinet Office
Canary Wharf Group
Chanel
Chelsea
Cisco
Costa
Currys
Deloitte
Disney
DK
Dyson
Excel
F1
Figma
Financial Times
Food Standards Agency
Fujifilm
Global
Google
GOV.UK
Harrods
Heathrow
HSBC
IBM
Itsu
ITV
Jaguar
JCDecaux
4
Accenture
Amazon
American Express
Apple
Army
Arsenal FC
BBC
Bentley
Boeing
Cabinet Office
Canary Wharf Group
Chanel
Chelsea
Cisco
Costa
Currys
Deloitte
Disney
DK
Dyson
Excel
F1
Figma
Financial Times
Food Standards Agency
Fujifilm
Global
Google
GOV.UK
Harrods
Heathrow
HSBC
IBM
Itsu
ITV
Jaguar
JCDecaux
John Lewis
Just Eat Takeaway
Lush
Macmillan Cancer Support
Mercedes
Metropolitan Police
Microsoft
Ministry of Defence
NATO OTAN
NHS
Nokia
Pandora
Penguin Random House
Pfizer
PlayStation
Porsche
Post Office
Red Bull
Royal Air Force
Savills
Sky
SMG
Sony
Specsavers
Tate
The Independent
The Times
Ticketmaster
TikTok
Turner
UK Parliament
Vevo
Wetherspoon
Wex
Wickes
Wise
World Duty Free
John Lewis
Just Eat Takeaway
Lush
Macmillan Cancer Support
Mercedes
Metropolitan Police
Microsoft
Ministry of Defence
NATO OTAN
NHS
Nokia
Pandora
Penguin Random House
Pfizer
PlayStation
Porsche
Post Office
Red Bull
Royal Air Force
Savills
Sky
SMG
Sony
Specsavers
Tate
The Independent
The Times
Ticketmaster
TikTok
Turner
UK Parliament
Vevo
Wetherspoon
Wex
Wickes
Wise
World Duty Free
John Lewis
Just Eat Takeaway
Lush
Macmillan Cancer Support
Mercedes
Metropolitan Police
Microsoft
Ministry of Defence
NATO OTAN
NHS
Nokia
Pandora
Penguin Random House
Pfizer
PlayStation
Porsche
Post Office
Red Bull
Royal Air Force
Savills
Sky
SMG
Sony
Specsavers
Tate
The Independent
The Times
Ticketmaster
TikTok
Turner
UK Parliament
Vevo
Wetherspoon
Wex
Wickes
Wise
World Duty Free

FAQs

Just a few of the common questions asked by our students.

  • No. The course is suitable for complete beginners as well as students with some prior 3D experience. You’ll start with the fundamentals and progress to more advanced modelling, animation, and rendering techniques.

  • We use the latest version of Autodesk 3ds Max to ensure you’re learning up-to-date tools, features, and industry-standard workflows. Older versions are mostly compatible, but updating is recommended.

  • Yes. All exercises are based on real-world projects, so you can apply what you learn directly to professional or personal creative work.

  • Absolutely. 3ds Max is widely used across multiple creative industries, and the skills you gain can be applied to film, television, games, and advertising projects.

  • Yes. The course covers polygon and spline modelling, object manipulation, keyframe animation, procedural animation, and camera techniques.

  • Yes. Projects completed during the course can be used to showcase your 3D modelling, animation, and visualisation skills to employers or clients.

  • For optimal performance, we recommend a modern computer with at least 16GB of RAM, a multi-core processor, a dedicated GPU, and sufficient storage for large 3D scenes.

Enquire

Contact us today to learn more about our courses and how we can help you achieve your creative goals.

Docklands Media’s 3ds Max Intermediate course is designed for learners who already have a basic understanding of the software and want to develop more advanced, professional-level skills in 3D modelling, animation, and rendering. This course is ideal for those looking to improve efficiency, expand creative control, and produce more complex 3D work.

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