3ds Max 2009 Beyond the Basics

Picking up where 3ds Max 2009 Essential Training left off, 3ds Max 2009 Beyond the Basics thoroughly explores materials, lights and cameras, animation techniques, rendering, special FX, and more. Those new to 3D animation will gain the most by simply working through the chapters in sequence, while experienced users can jump directly to a particular subject of interest. Lessons are reinforced with projects that apply each new technique to a real-world scenario. Instructor Steve Nelle also shares valuable tips and insights gained during his years of working as a professional animator. As he says, 'There's a lot more to becoming an animator than simply knowing which button to push!' Example files accompany the course.

Special Note: Fundamental 3D modeling concepts and techniques, along with features such as transformations and modifiers, are covered in 3ds Max 2009 Essential Training.

Topics Include:

• Building simple, complex, and multi/sub-object materials
• Using bitmaps to create realistic bumps, reflections, and transparency
• Creating lights to effectively illuminate a 3D scene
• Understanding camera types, lens lengths, and motion blur
• Creating realistic movement with keyframing
• Applying ActiveShade, RAM Player, and other rendering techniques
• Using particle systems, space warps, reactors, and other special effects
• Getting to know Character Studio, Bones, and their associated 'skinning' modifiers
• Opening, viewing, saving, and sharing drawings
• Customizing the workspace
• Mastering drawing fundamentals and specialized commands
• Defining units of measure and controlling accuracy
• Making primary modifications and major changes to a drawing
• Organizing layers and reusable content
• Annotating and dimensioning
• Plotting with layouts
• Sizing linetypes, modelspace text, and dimensions for a plot

Duration: 9.75 hours
On 1 DVD-ROM

System Requirements

Macintosh Requirements

• OS 10.3.9 or higher
• DVD-ROM drive
• 1024x768 resolution
• 24-bit video support
• QuickTime 7 or higher

Windows Requirements

• XP or Vista
• DVD-ROM Drive
• 1024x768 resolution
• 24-bit video support
• PC sound card/speakers
• QuickTime 7 or higher (included)
• .NET 2.0 or higher (included)