Synopses & Reviews
An Autodesk Official Training Guide to 3ds Max 20113ds Max is a popular 3D animation-and-effects software used in movies, visual effects, games, cartoons, short films, commercials, and other animation. However, it also presents a number of challenges to newcomers. This introduction to the latest version breaks down the complexities of learning 3D software and walks you through the basics of modeling, texturing, animating, and using visual effects. Real-world examples from talented beginning 3ds max users motivate you to learn the software and helpful tutorials offer realistic, professional challenges for you to unravel. In addition, each chapter is richly illustrated with workflows to make learning 3ds max 2011 much easier and fn.
Introduces you to the basics of modeling, texturing, animating, and incorporating visual effects using the latest version of 3ds Max software
- Features excellent tutorials, helpful examples, detailed workflows, and a companion Web site to enhance your learning experience
- Explains a variety of methods for solving real-world challenges and breaks down why certain methods are used
- Makes the transition of coming from other 3D software applications as smooth as possible
Introducing 3ds Max 2011 takes a typically difficult subject and breaks into easily digestible pieces so you can confidently begin working with this 3D animation software today.
Synopsis
Introducing 3ds Max teaches the basics of modeling, texturing, animating, and visual effects to familiarize readers with the program as a whole and encourage them to find what aspects of the production pipeline appeal to them. The expository text is reinforced with excellent tutorials, and the companion website includes tutorial files so readers can learn by completing hands-on projects in the book. The tutorials offer realistic, professional challenges for those new to 3D, and to those coming from another 3D application.Each chapter leads with an introduction to the topic and explains methods, as well why certain methods are used. Each chapter is richly illustrated with workflows and examples to make following the sometimes difficult subject matter much easier and fun. The book evenly covers all aspects a beginner should be familiar with for a solid foundation of 3ds Max, but also caters some sections to Max's strengths, such as game work. For example, extra time is given to low poly modeling techniques and UV texturing for game export. Readers can expect to get a solid foundation of skills and knowledge to the sophisticated software package. Those coming from other 3D software applications will appreciate the book's sophisticated approach.
Synopsis
Move your skills into the next dimension with 3ds MaxBy the time you finish Introducing Autodesk 3ds Max 2011, you'll have created a dresser with six drawers, animated a knife being thrown at a target, built a 3D model of a child's toy, and much more—all while learning Autodesk's popular animation software. From modeling and lighting to animation and dynamics, this Autodesk Official Training Guide is not only the perfect introduction to 3ds Max, but also to the fundamentals of Computer Graphics (CG).
The book takes you all the way through the 3ds Max pipeline, from preproduction through postproduction, and provides pages of clear-cut explanations, practical tutorials, and hands-on projects to build your skills. A special color insert showcases impressive and inspiring examples from talented 3ds Max beginners.
Build the CG knowledge you need for game, film, and TV production
Explore modeling, from simple and complex polygon mechanical models to organic character modeling
Understand the role of hierarchies in animation
Create walk cycles, use Inverse Kinematics, and animate a biped
Explore lighting, rendering, and raytracing concepts
Master particle systems and use soft body and rigid body dynamics
About the Author
Randi L. Derakhshani teaches 3D animation at The Art Institute of California and has worked as a digital artist and technical director for games and movie projects with Gizmo Games, RJB Enterprises, and Sony.
Dariush Derakhshani is an award-winning visual effects supervisor, author, and educator. He has worked on movies such as The Fantastic Four and Pan's Labyrinth, the South Park TV series, and numerous commercials and music videos. He teaches 3D animation and is the author of all the Introducing Maya books (Sybex). Dariush and Randi wrote Introducing 3ds Max 2008 and Introducing 3ds Max 9 (Sybex).
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Basic Concepts.
Chapter 2: Your First 3ds Max Animation.
Chapter 3: The 3ds Max Interface.
Chapter 4: Modeling in 3ds Max: Part I.
Chapter 5: Modeling in 3ds Max: Part II.
Chapter 6: Character Poly Modeling.
Chapter 7: Materials and Mapping.
Chapter 8: Introduction to Animation.
Chapter 9: Character Studio and IK Animation.
Chapter 10: 3ds Max Lighting.
Chapter 11: 3ds Max Rendering.
Chapter 12: Particles and Dynamics.