Hair: How do I *

[Argopo]

Been working on a painting project and have been using XSI for some of the assets. XSI is still new to me so I'm stumbling along.

Using the hair module, how do I give each strand volume with shadows. I want each strand to have a more 3D tube like look.

Also, there aren't many thorough hair tutorials I have been able to find. Just basic ones. Do you know of any?

I've attached test renders of the hair in question and the textured model. I have also attached a screenshot of some of the settings.

Many thanks in advance for any help!

[andystopps]

The "Hair Geometry" shader might give you the look you want. It renders slower though (surprise, surprise...).

[Argopo]

Thanks Andy,

Someone mentioned I should model a hair object, group it and use instancing to get the look I want.

So that's what I plan to do.

I'll post a follow-up render.

[runejw]

Not sure if you've seen these already...

http://www.digitaltutors.com/store/browser.php
Click on XSI and scroll down to the Free videos:
Deforming Guide Hairs in XSI -> also shows how add some interesting shading to the hair
Hair Instancing in XSI -> replacing hairs with your own geometry
XSI Hair (Part 1 - 3) -> shows how to comb, brush, cut and use weightmaps as cutmaps

[thiago]

Using the hair module, how do I give each strand volume with shadows. I want each strand to have a more 3D tube like look.

You will need a light with shadows on.
From this image it looks like your light has no shadows.
If it's on, take a look on the "Umbra" parameter in the light, it's supposed to brighten up the shadow, so it could be killing your shadows.