getting started coding in blender, need advice/help

Coding Beginning Blender Code and Development
1

Hey all,

I need help getting started with coding for Blender, the way I see it now there are three possible options:

  1. coding in C
  2. scripting with Python
  3. using both C and Python

I am a beginner in C++ and an intermediate in Java (just finished my first class actually, taking second next semester).

From what I can tell the C route is most powerful, but I am nowhere knowledgeable enough.
Python appears to be much easier to code in, but it limits what can be done and is slower for simulations(not going to be doing any yet…).

Some of the projects I was considering:

A better tree generator/designer (more artist friendly, easier shape control, continued editing…). For this I was considering revising the current Sapling script to save time, but it might be easier to start from scratch.

Erosion generator for meshes. Wind, rain…

Any suggestions on how to get started?

Thanks!
Gat

2

Maybe getting to know more about Blender API:
http://www.blender.org/api/blender_python_api_2_72_1/#

For plants here’s great resource:
http://algorithmicbotany.org/papers/
http://algorithmicbotany.org/virtual_laboratory/

Simulating Erosion:
http://www.swineworld.org/2014/01/simulating-erosion-in-blender-part-i.html

3

Thanks a lot for the links!

4
5

Start with python, work in some addons. They will give you a good idea of how everything works internally, you can move to C once you’re more comfortable with Blender’s terminology.

Here’s the architecture notes: http://wiki.blender.org/index.php/Dev:2.5/Source/Architecture

6

Thanks a lot Januz! :smiley: