Principles Of Three Dimensional Computer Animation

Integrated into this text are techniques that, since it was first published have become an accepted part of computer animation technology. New sections cover advanced modelling, rendering and animating techniques, including blended surfaces, environment rendering, animation constraints, volumetric lights and an expanded description of particle systems. A chapter on animation production has been added.

A clearly written guide for the professional or student interested in the production of 3-D computer images. This non-platform specific guide provides a wealth of understandable information, four-color and black and white illustrations, and hundreds of tips. Written by an authority in the field, this book takes the reader through a step-by-step approach to learning this exciting.

Publisher Description

Master the art of computer animation and visual effects production with the latest edition of this cutting-edge guide This remarkable edition of The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects offers clear, step-by-step guidelines for the entire process of creating a fully rendered 3D computer animation. With up-to-date coverage of the latest computer animation styles and techniques, this versatile guide provides insightful information for creating animations and visual effects—from creative development and preproduction to finished animation. Designed to work with any computer platform, this Fourth Edition cuts through technical jargon and presents numerous easy-to-understand instructive diagrams. Full-color examples are presented—including VFX and animated feature movies, games, and TV commercials—by such leading companies as Blue Sky, Blur, BUF, Disney, DreamWorks, Electronic Arts, Framestore, ILM, Imagi, Microsoft, Mac Guff, The Mill, Menfond, Pixar, Polygon, Rhythm & Hues, Sony Imageworks, Tippett, Ubisoft, and Weta, and many other studios and groundbreaking independent artists from around the world. This fully revised edition features new material on the latest visual effects techniques, a useful update of the traditional principles of animation, practical information on creative development, multiple production pipeline ideas for shorts and visual effects, plus updated information on current production trends and techniques in animation, rendering, modeling, rigging, and compositing. Whether you are a student, an independent artist or creator, or a production company team member, The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects, Fourth Edition gives you a broad palette of tips and techniques for bringing your visions to life through 3D computer animation. Unique focus on creative development and production issues Non-platform specific, with multiple examples illustrated in a practical, step-by-step approach The newest computer animation techniques, including facial animation, image-based and non-photorealistic rendering, model rigging, real-time models, and 2D/3D integration Over 700 full-color images Encyclopedic timeline and production pipelines

Create high-quality 3D animations and models by using the basic concepts and principles of 3D art presented by GeekAtPlay.com's Ami Chopine. This handy studio reference breaks down the core concepts into easy-to-understand segments and teaches you the 'why' in addition to the 'how.' Using application agnostic step-by-step tutorials, this book teaches you how to model, pose, and texture your creations as well as scenery creation, animation, and rendering. Learn which applications are best for your needs and how you can get started making money in the 3D field. The companion website includes video tutorials, models, project files, and other resources. This book is endorsed by Daz3d.com and includes exclusive Daz3d models.

A tutorial guide to current techniques for 3-dimensional computer animation that explains key concepts at a level requiring little mathematical background. It is ideal for self study by computer graphics professionals and others who need a guide to today's animation techniques.

This unique, full-color visual exploration of the theory of Maya is rich with diagrams and illustrations that demonstrate the critical concepts of 3D time and space, and helps explain the principles of 3D modeling, animation, dynamics and rendering. The book also includes a series of production notes detailing how skilled Maya artists have worked with the software to create production quality films, games, visualizations, and animations. The accompanying CD-ROM includes Maya Personal Learning Edition.