Re: How to create a cloud-like text effect?

The same technique could fairly easily be adapted to Maya, using the Dynamics module.

Again, you would create geometry in the shape of the text you want to create, then you would turn that geometry into a surface emitter (Particles -> Emit From Object []). Change the particles to the Cloud type, set the emitter settings as you wish, and add any appropriate fields.

If you have questions about specific steps, post them--I know I haven't been on the forum as regularly as I should be lately, but I'll try to check back in soon.

One commonly-overlooked step when working with cloud particles in Maya: make sure you turn up the 'Diffuse Coefficient' attribute on the particleCloud shader. This allows the particles to receive light and look puffy and 3D; with it set at the default of 0, they look flat and empty. (C'mon, Autodesk, choose reasonable defaults for crucial attributes!!)

Good luck,

-Steve