Softimage: A History of Innovation in 3D Animation Software

In the world of computer-generated imagery (CGI), Softimage has been a household name for decades. Founded in 1986 by Daniel Langlois, a National Film Board of Canada filmmaker, Softimage started as a small company with only three employees. The company's first product was called the Softimage Creative Environment, later renamed to Softimage 3D.

The early years of Softimage were marked by rapid growth and innovation. In 1988, Char Davies joined the company as founding director, bringing her expertise in virtual reality art to the table. Davies would go on to become vice-president of Virtual Research. Under Langlois and Davies' leadership, Softimage developed a range of products that revolutionized the world of 3D animation.

In the early 1990s, Softimage acquired Eddie from Discreet, renaming it Softimage|Eddie. This move marked a significant expansion for the company, as Eddie was a powerful image compositor widely used in the film industry. The software was eventually replaced by Softimage XSI, originally codenamed 'Sumatra', which introduced inverse kinematics for character animation.

Softimage's acquisition by Microsoft in 1994 for US$130 million marked a significant turning point for the company. During its time under Microsoft ownership, Softimage developed a range of products, including Softimage|DS, a non-linear video-editing and compositing suite that was later available from Avid Technology under the name Avid DS.

In 1997, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awarded Softimage a Scientific and Engineering Award for its development of the 'Actor' component of Softimage|3D. The company went public in 1992, but was eventually acquired by Avid Technology in 2001. Under Avid ownership, Softimage continued to develop innovative products, including Softimage XSI, which was used in the production of several high-profile films and games.

Today, Autodesk owns the name and assets of Softimage's 3D-animation business, a testament to the company's enduring legacy in the world of CGI. Whether you're an animator, filmmaker, or gamer, Softimage has likely played a role in shaping your favorite movies, TV shows, and video games.

Softimage 3d 3.5