MASH Workflows

In a typical MASH workflow, you generate various effects using the integrated toolkit within Maya and then export those elements to a creative finishing tool. In the following tutorial, we will show you how to set up a futuristic UI effect from scratch and then export it in layers to Adobe ® After Effects®.

For even more videos on creating specific MASH effects, see the Motion Graphics playlist on the Maya Learning Channel.

Note: Scene files used in this tutorial can be found here.

Note: Most of these videos were recorded in Maya 2016 extension 2. In Maya 2017 you may notice slight differences, such as:

• the MASH menu being located in the Animation and FX menu sets.
• MASH nodes no longer need to be assigned to specific transform channels (they are now always assigned to Translate, Rotate, and Scale simultaneously).
• the replacement of certain nodes (Noise and Trig with Signal, Mute with Strength).
• Other miscellaneous minor UI changes.

Introduction to MASH workflows

Creating a pixel globe

Nodes used: Distribute, Repro, Visibility.

Creating a plexus sphere and surrounding elements

Nodes used: Distribute, Repro, Replicator, Trails, Transform.

Animating scene elements

Nodes used: Distribute, Repro, Transform.

Creating and fixing a HUD element to the camera

Nodes used: Distribute, Transform.

Creating additional HUD elements

Nodes used: Audio, Distribute, Signal, Symmetry, Transform.

Note: If you are using Maya 2016 Extension 2, refer to the previous workflow on the Maya Learning Channel instead.

Exporting effects layers to After Effects

Feature used: Render Layers.