3D Animation: From Models to Movies (With CD-ROM)

The main problem with embarking on a career in 3-D graphics is one of choice–the tools are many, and the avenues for work are all over the map. It's difficult to choose a specific type of work, and often you don't even know the kind of question to ask to get started.

Consider 3-D Animation: From Models to Movies a compass, a road map, and even a means of transportation. This clearly written book puts the world of 3-D computer graphics into perspective for the novice who doesn't know a pixel from a polygon. Over the course of 15 chapters, the author discusses the very basics of computer graphics and how 3-D applications work, and then puts them in perspective against other applications of the genre.

3-D Animation introduces us to the digital workflow and how the 3-D world works–orientation, navigation, basic tools, expressions, and features common to most 3-D applications. By the third chapter, the book is deep into practical matters by starting off with modeling basics. Subsequent chapters cover texturing, lighting, rendering, and animation.

The best chapter is less about the craft of 3-D graphics and more about the business. Chapter 15, "Getting the Job," consists of a helpful five pages on how to get an interview, what job descriptions mean, generic dos and don'ts, and, more importantly, demo reel dos and don'ts. (No flying logos or spaceships, please!) Learning a skill is one thing; finding a job is another. This chapter offers solid advice for any first-timer.

There are few entry-level 3-D graphics books that come with a fully functioning 3-D application. The companion CD-ROM is a full working copy of the venerable Strata 3D application. Strata's been around for a while, and while Strata 3D doesn't have all the features that Strata Studio Pro does, it's still a very good application with full rendering and file-saving abilities.

If you don't own a 3-D application yet, this book and the software on the CD-ROM are a great way to get your virtual feet wet. –Mike Caputo

Understanding the digital 3D world is the first step to becoming a real 3D animator and once you've mastered 3D model creation, you'll be ready to make your models come alive. Written for designers just beginning in animation, but with some background in 3D, this book provides the fundamentals on 3D design so that learning animation will be a smooth, enjoyable journey. Whether you have been working on your own for a while, are in an introductory animation course, or just need to hone your 3D and animation skills, this is the right resource for you.

With the hands-on tools provided here, you'll learn everything from understanding 3D to modeling, rendering, texturing, lighting, and animation. Written by an instructor of introductory to advanced level animation, this book provides practical insights, tips, and techniques. Practice tutorials and exercises are included throughout the book to help you build your own creations as you work through the detailed information provided. And when you're all done, there is information on getting a job in the industry, preparing demo reels, and getting started as a professional 3D animator.

Features:

– Focuses on three leading tools: Cinema 4D XL, Lightwave, and Strata Studio Pro. Also covers, AfterEffects, Premiere, Final Cut, Photo Shop, and other leading graphics programs

–Discusses hardware (Windows and Mac) and software issues

–Teaches 3D modeling and animation from the beginning to the final cut

–Written by an animation instructor

– Companion CD includes demos of the products covered, the tutorial files from within the book, and other useful tools to make your creations sizzle (Windows/Mac)