Mastering Autodesk 3ds Max Design 2010

The only comprehensive tutorial/reference exclusively devoted to Autodesk's robust architectural visualization software

3ds Max Design is a powerful real-time 3D design, modeling, and animation tool for architectural visualizations. This book covers all the software's crucial features, including how to simulate and analyze sun, sky, and artificial light-crucial factors for sustainable design-and how to define and assign realistic materials and work with AutoCAD and Revit files.

You'll quickly learn how to get the most from this powerful software's 3D modeling, animation, and rendering capabilities. McFarland is an Autodesk Authorized Author with professional experience in creating complex visualizations for a large property development company. His real-world focus means workflows and instructions are professional and proven, and projects will include those that pros work on every day.

• Uses actual examples from the author's experience, including retail spaces, small offices, residential developments, and more
• Concise explanations, focused examples, step-by-step instructions, and hands-on tutorials teach the basics and fine points of the software
• Covers all the essential features, such as how to simulate and analyze sun, sky, and artificial light
• Demonstrates efficient use of the interface; how to work with Revit and AutoCAD files; using data, scene management, and solid modeling tools; rendering real-world surfaces; and setting up animated walkthroughs

Mastering 3ds Max Design 2010 provides a practical education in using this powerful architectural visualization tool.

Mark Gerhard is a 3ds Max Design guru and application engineer. He was one of the first artists hired by Autodesk to test the first version of this software in 1990, wrote many of the tutorials that ship with 3ds Max, and continues to train 3ds Max users.

Jeffery M. Harper uses 3ds Max to create architectural and civil engineering visualizations as well as models, stills and animations used in Computer Based Training Programs.

Jon McFarland uses 3ds Max Design to create visualizations of proposed facility construction and expansions and teaches 3ds Max Design courses at the university level. He has written six books, including AutoCAD 2010 and AutoCAD LT 2010: No Experience Required.