Python Starterpack

Python is a powerful programming language that is easy to learn and, once unlocked, becomes a valuable tool for Visual Effects artists. I remember my first time having to write a Python script feeling lost and overwhelmed, but thankfully there are plenty of resources available to help get us over the hump. Below I have assembled a small collection of resources that you can use to help complete that Python script you have been working on.

1.       Python Download:

https://www.python.org/downloads/

2.      The Python Tutorial:

https://docs.python.org/3.10/tutorial/index.html

This is a great place to start for those who are just getting started. It contains a list with almost everything you need to know about Python, including if statements, lists, strings, and conditions. My advice is to go through the glossary in order if you are a beginner, but if you are more intermediate, then this is a great resource as each section is clearly labeled.

3.      YouTube:

YouTube is an excellent resource for learning almost anything in the world. Thankfully,  there are numerous professional software developers out there who are willing to share their knowledge with us for free.

The link above will take you to an over 6hr long tutorial taught by the YouTube channel Programming with Mosh. In the tutorial, he takes you through almost every portion of Python. He even does  video projects such as creating a website. The video’s description  also has clearly marked sections, so you can skip ahead or revisit old chapters if needed.

Another great Python tutorial video linked above comes from the channel TechWorld with Nana. This video is geared more toward beginners covering the essential components of Python.

There are many other YouTube videos that you can find for more specific questions about Python.

The video linked above covers common errors that people have in Maya Python. Some of the topics covered in the video include invalid syntax, ‘list’ object has no attribute, and can only concatenate list(not “str”) to list.  

4.      Maya Python Documentation:

Maya has a very strong Python plugin that could be used for an assortment of different tasks. With so many commands  you can use, it’s best to consult the documentation published by Autodesk when you get lost. 

https://help.autodesk.com/view/MAYAUL/2023/ENU/index.html?contextId=COMMANDSPYTHON-INDEX

Reading the documentation for the first time can be a little overwhelming. Not sure what everything means? I  recommend reading through every part of the documentation, even for a command as simple as cmds.polySphere.

5.      Nuke Python Documentation:

The Foundry has their own documentation list for the Python plugin.

https://learn.foundry.com/nuke/developers/63/pythondevguide/

This is a very helpful guide for those looking to use Python for their compositing.

6.      Houdini Python Documentation:

Houdini also has a plugin for Python that is listed on SideFx’s website. Click on the link below for more information.

https://www.sidefx.com/docs/houdini/hom/index.html        

There are plenty of resources online that you can use to learn more about Python. The best way  to learn Python, just like any Visual Effects, is to start using it and push through the learning curve.