The Magic of Houdini - Softcover

Cunningham, William Michael

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1598630822 ISBN 13: 9781598630824

Publisher: Cengage Learning PTR, 2005

Synopsis

Houdini is one of the premier 3D animation software packages on the market, used by top post-production studios in Hollywood. With the introduction of Apprentice, the free learning edition of Houdini, more and more people are experiencing Houdini and looking for an accurate and complete reference guide to the software. The Magic of Houdini teaches readers all of the skills and information necessary to be proficient in this application. Upon completion of the book, readers will be able to understand and utilize the interdependency of the various Houdini contexts and tackle a project using all of the techniques available including modeling, character animation, particle effects animation, dynamic simulation animation, shading, simple shader creation, lighting, rendering, and compositing. Integrated exercises, tips, illustrations, and end-of-chapter quizzes help readers feel confident with the new skills they are learning. Written by an experienced 3D animator and teacher, the book provides an approachable and accurate introduction to Houdini.

About this title

About the Author:

Will Cunningham began his trek by studying both traditional art subjects and 3D computer software at the Academy of Entertainment and Technology. After his studies, he was hired as a Houdini Technical Intern by Side Effects, the developers of the Houdini software package. Eager to create effects for the big screen, he then jumped into production with BlackBox Digital on the feature, The Prince and Me. Shortly thereafter, he also began teaching Introduction to Houdini at the Academy and has since taught both the introductory and intermediate Houdini courses. In the Fall of 2004, he was awarded a Fellowship Grant by Santa Monica College to support his efforts in creating this book. Over the years, Will has worked for a number of production studios on a variety of projects including The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Open Season, and Ghostrider. Currently, he is enjoying effects challenges and learning opportunities at Sony Pictures Imageworks.

Review:

1. Introduction and Welcome 2. 3D Concepts Reviewed 3. The Houdini Interface 4. Object Operators (OBJs) 5. Surface Operators (SOPs) 6. Addition SOPs Practice 7. Animation 8. Particle Operators (POPs) 9. Shader Operators (SHOPs) 10. VEX Operators (VOPs) 11. Digital Assets 12. Dynamic Operators (DOPs) 13. Render Outputs (ROPs) 14. And So It Ends?

About this edition

• Publisher: Cengage Learning PTR
• Publication date: 2005
• ISBN 10: 1598630822
• ISBN 13: 9781598630824
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 355