Learning Autodesk Maya 8|Foundation +DVD

This exceptional, full-colour Autodesk Maya Press title - produced by Autodesk, the software's creators - uses Sony's full-length animated "Open Season" for the book's all-new hands-on tutorials for Maya 8. By following the step-by-step tutorials, readers will learn the Maya interface and the basics of modeling, texturing, animating, and visual effects using real-world production files from a full-length feature film. The DVD provides further reinforcement with instructor-led tutorial videos and other resources for extended learning.

With this book readers will:

• Become familiar with the Maya User Interface
• Work in 3D space
• Model with NURBS (Spline)
• Model with Polygons
• Set Keyframes and Motion Paths
• Learn to use Trax Non-linear animation
• Apply Forward and Inverse Kinematics
• Deform surfaces
• Set cameras and lights
• Create Shaders and Textures
• Discover rendering techniques
• Explore particles and Dynamics
• Begin to use MEL (Maya Embedded Language)

This full-color guide for beginners to all versions of Maya 8 (Complete, Unlimited, and Personal Learning Edition) features real-world images and examples from Open Season, a Sony Pictures Animation Inc. film. Its DVD contains Autodesk Sketchbook Pro, project files, an excerpt and interviews from the film, and instructor-led project overviews. Its web site contains updates. Heavily illustrated step-by-step instructions make this a good self-study choice and a good purchase for all medium and larger libraries. (Library Journal, January 15, 2007)