Description:
3D Studio Max 3 Workshop confidently leads beginning Max users through the dark forest of installation, interface introductions, and core concepts. Illustrating the design, construction, and final rendering of a single project, and introducing new features as needed, it drives toward a final goal and artistic vision that started out as a sketch on paper. The first noticeable thing about this book is the keyboard/icon tear-out sheet, which is invaluable. Featuring every icon in Max's many toolbars on one side, and the most commonly needed keyboard shortcuts on the other, this two-page sheet printed on heavy paper helps the new user get more proficient in Max through keyboard shortcuts and by making it easier to decipher onscreen icons. The 10 chapters illustrate the step-by-step process of creating and refining an idea, building the set, applying materials, adding lights and animation, and putting it all together in the final rendering. Each chapter is clear, concise, and designed to build on previous material while introducing new functions. The only downside is that the book has no color images--a few pages of color graphics would have been great for illustrating ideas that were presented in the chapter on lighting or surface materials, for example. The real-world approach that is taken by 3D Studio Max 3 Workshop is encouraging and realistic. If you are serious about learning how to use Max and working professionally in 3-D computer graphics and animation, this book makes a solid teacher. Starting with an idea on paper and following through to final rendering, it gives an overview not only of how to use Max, but how to use it in the real world. --Mike Caputo
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