Learning Autodesk Maya 8

This exceptional, full-colour Autodesk Maya Press title - produced by Autodesk, the software's creators - uses Sony's full-length animated "Open Season" for the book's all-new hands-on tutorials for Maya 8. By following the step-by-step tutorials, readers will learn the Maya interface and the basics of modeling, texturing, animating, and visual effects using real-world production files from a full-length feature film. The DVD provides further reinforcement with instructor-led tutorial videos and other resources for extended learning.
With this book readers will:

* Become familiar with the Maya User Interface
* Work in 3D space
* Model with NURBS (Spline)
* Model with Polygons
* Set Keyframes and Motion Paths
* Learn to use Trax Non-linear animation
* Apply Forward and Inverse Kinematics
* Deform surfaces
* Set cameras and lights
* Create Shaders and Textures
* Discover rendering techniques
* Explore particles and Dynamics
* Begin to use MEL (Maya Embedded Language)