Overview
Understand and apply noise in Houdini to enhance the realism of smoke and Pyro simulations., Utilize and rebuild Gas Microsolvers from scratch, including Gas Turbulence, Gas Shredding, Gas Vortex Confinement, and Gas Disturb, Gain a deep understanding of DOP networks and systems, Create custom detailing and masking techniques for smoke simulations, allowing for greater control and flexibility in visual effects., Develop reusable Houdini Digital Assets (OTLs) to streamline workflow and apply custom simulation techniques efficiently across different projects.
This course is designed for FX artists, technical directors, and Houdini enthusiasts who want to master advanced smoke and Pyro simulation techniques. If you're looking to move beyond basic setups and develop a deeper understanding of Gas Microsolvers, DOP networks, and custom detailing techniques, this course is for you! Ideal Learners: VFX Artists & Houdini Users – Who want to create highly detailed and realistic smoke simulations. Technical Directors & Pipeline Developers – Looking to build custom tools and workflows for simulations. Intermediate Houdini Users – Ready to take their DOP knowledge to the next level by learning how to create Gas Microsolvers from scratch. Aspiring FX Artists & Motion Designers – Interested in procedural simulation techniques and dynamic effects. If you’re eager to enhance your simulations, create custom masking tools, and gain full control over smoke detailing, this course will provide the skills and knowledge to do just that!
This course is designed for intermediate to advanced Houdini users who want to deepen their understanding of smoke and Pyro simulations. However, motivated beginners with a strong interest in Houdini’s DOP networks can also follow along, Basic Houdini knowledge – Familiarity with the Houdini interface and basic simulation concepts., Understanding of DOPs (Dynamics Operators) – Prior experience with dynamic simulations will be helpful.
Master the art of detailing and masking smoke and Pyro simulations in Houdini. This course will take you beyond presets, teaching you the inner workings of Gas Microsolvers, vector operations, and custom simulation techniques.
What You’ll Learn:
Understanding noise in Houdini and its role in simulations.
Exploring vector operators: curl, gradient, divergence, Laplacian, and curvature.
Enhancing smoke and Pyro simulations with detailing and masking techniques.
Breaking Down Gas Microsolvers
We will start by analyzing Houdini’s built-in Gas Microsolvers, including:
Gas Turbulence
Gas Shredding
Gas Vortex Confinement
Gas Disturb
Rather than just tweaking their settings, you’ll learn to rebuild them from scratch using Gas Microsolvers. This approach will provide core knowledge of DOP networks, helping you develop your own advanced simulation techniques. Key microsolvers covered include:
Gas Match Field
Gas Analysis
Gas Linear Combination
Gas Field VOP
…and more!
Custom Techniques for Smoke Detailing & Masking
Once you understand the traditional methods, we’ll move into creating custom detailing solutions for smoke simulations. You'll learn how to:
Build custom masks using Houdini techniques.
Develop an OTL (Houdini Digital Asset) for flexible reuse in any simulation.
By the end of this course, you won’t just know how to use Houdini’s tools—you’ll understand how they work at a fundamental level, allowing you to create your own powerful DOP-based systems for simulation.
Anas Alaa
As a Freelance Visual Effects Artist and dedicated instructor, I have been immersed in the world of Houdini since 2014, specializing in creating breathtaking visual simulations. My portfolio includes a diverse range of personal projects, showcasing my expertise in large-scale water simulations, many of which have been featured on CGRecord. In addition to my freelance work, I have served as an instructor at MIX training, where I share my passion for visual effects with aspiring artists. I also run my own educational platform, Doctor VFX Tutorials, offering in-depth courses that cover various aspects of visual effects. My primary focus is on water simulations, but my skill set extends to other types of simulations in Houdini, including fire, explosions, destruction, and particles. I am keen on taking on more freelance work across all types of simulations in Houdini, bringing creativity and technical expertise to each project. With a solid mathematical background, I enjoy exploring the intricate math behind fluid dynamics and solvers. This has led me to create two specialized courses that delve into the mathematics of fluid solvers and their construction. I am committed to making complex concepts accessible and engaging for learners at all levels. Whether you're looking to master Houdini or deepen your understanding of visual effects mathematics, my courses are designed to elevate your skills and inspire creativity in the field