Maya 4 Fundamentals

Maya 4 Fundamentals will takeyou from a review of 3D fundamentals to a working knowledge of creating content in Maya 4. Topics covered include the interface and primary tools, modeling with NURBS and polygons, applying materials and textures, lighting, using modifiers and deformers, animating scenes, using cameras, rendering stills and animations, and using particle systems, dynamics, and paint effects. Special appendices also cover making the change from other software like 3ds max or LightWave to Maya. Video-captured movies on the accompanying CD supplement the tutorial foundation of the book.

Jim Lammers is an animator, instructor, and reseller of Maya based in Kansas City, Missouri. A graduate of the University of Missouri's electrical engineering program, he switched to freelance animation within a few years of graduation and eventually formed his company, Trinity Animation, in 1992. Since then, Jim has combined animation production with training and 3D software sales, including plug-in developer Cebas Computer and Alias|Wavefront. Trinity Animation's Web site is a primary source for 3D software worldwide. Jim coordinates the Kansas City animation user group and continues to produce animation. He created 3D effects for the Sony/TriStar film Starship Troopers in 1997 under the renowned Hollywood effects veteran Peter Kuran and his company, VCE. His other past animation work includes visualization projects for clients such as Nestle, McDonald's, and Butler Manufacturing. Jim can be reached at jim@trinity3d.com.

Lee Gooding is currently studying computer graphics technology at Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana, where he gets to work with a variety of graphics-related technology. Lee is a self-taught Maya user, converting from 3ds max after hearing about the power in Maya. Gooding began to work for Trinity Animation in 2000, developing training materials for Maya. He is currently focusing on completing his education and developing his own 3D projects. Lee has hopes of mastering MEL to become a true Maya guru. Lee can be reached at goodings@purdue.edu.

These reviewers contributed their considerable hands-on expertise to theentire development process for Maya 4 Fundamentals. As the book was beingwritten, these dedicated professionals reviewed all the material for technicalcontent, organization, and flow. Their feedback was critical to ensuring thatthis book fits our readers' need for the highest-quality technicalinformation.

Chaz Laughlin is the owner/CEO of RPM, a 3D communications company. Chazholds two B.F.A.s in computer graphics, his first from the design andillustration department at Kansas State University, headed up by Bob Hower, andthe second from the film and animation department at the Kansas City ArtInstitute, headed up by Patrick Clancy. He was initially brought into the fieldof 3D animation through working at a company that designed wargames and battlesimulations for the U.S. Army. Chaz's love for what computer graphics arecapable of has fueled his success in 3D.

Eric Pavey has been professionally involved in CG since 1993. He received his degree in graphic design from Al Collin's Graphic Design School and completed two CG animation courses from The School of Communication Arts. Previous employment includes Square and Neversoft; Eric is currently working for Ronin Entertainment. He gives thanks to his wife and son for putting up with the long hours, and to New Riders for putting up with his bad comedy. Eric can be reached at e_pavey@yahoo.com.