Maya 8: The Complete Reference Book/DVD Package

Description

Learn cutting-edge 3D animation techniques

Create breathtaking content for film, TV, games, print media, and the Web using Autodesk Maya and the detailed information contained in this comprehensive resource. Maya experts and special effects gurus Tom Meade and Shinsaku Arima cover every step in the Maya production workflow using easy-to-follow tutorials, real-world examples, and insider tips and tricks.

Maya 8: The Complete Reference shows you how to use the latest version of Maya to its full potential. You'll learn to integrate motion, create complex effects, manipulate lighting, render your final animation, and prepare for postproduction.

* Build 3D models using polygons, NURBS, and subdivision surfaces
* Use displacement maps to enhance geometry
* Create and skin skeletons
* Connect the attributes of any nodes together
* Build a control rig to manipulate skeletons
* Create your own tools using MEL scripts
* Master the Hypershade to control textures, cameras, and lights
* Work with the Artisan tools, Paint Effects tools, and 3D Paint tools
* Render your animation for postproduction

Ready-to-use sample files on DVD

CONTENTS:

Part I: Introduction to MayaChapter 1: Core ConceptsChapter 2: The Maya User InterfacePart II: ModelingChapter 3: Polygonal ModelingChapter 4: Organic ModelingChapter 5: Basic NURBS ModelingChapter 6: Advanced NURBS ModelingChapter 7: Preparing Models for AnimationPart III: Character SetupChapter 8: DeformersChapter 9: Joints and SkeletonsChapter 10: Skinning and Advanced DeformationsChapter 11: Connecting AttributesChapter 12: Character ControlsChapter 13: MEL ScriptingPart IV: AnimationChapter 14: Animation BasicsChapter 15: Character AnimationChapter 16: Animation ToolsPart V: Texturing, Lighting, and RenderingChapter 17: Texture BasicsChapter 18: Texturing in PracticeChapter 19: Painting a MayaChapter 20: Lights and CamerasChapter 21: RenderingPart VI: Particles, Emitters, and FieldsChapter 22: Particles and FieldsChapter 23: Advanced Particle Systems and EffectsChapter 24: Rigid and Soft Body DynamicsChapter 25: Maya HairChapter 26: Maya ClothPart VII: PostproductionChapter 27: Rendering for PostproductionChapter 28: Compositing in PostproductionINDEX