Simplifying Maya

While Autodesk® Maya® is a technically complex 3D application, learning it doesn't have to be! There are lots of Maya tutorials out there but Simplifying Maya is the only user-friendly technical guide on the market that actually breaks down and demystifies the many parts of this massive program. 

What makes this book different? While learning to work in the fastest, most practical way possible you also learn the concepts behind the specifics, sometimes lacking when learning exclusively through tutorials. Because in 3D to use something like Global Illumination, you have to understand the lighting concepts behind it. This will not only boost you to the next level, it will also make it easier to move from one application to another. 

Simplifying Maya focuses on Workflows, Cameras, Modeling, Texturing, Lighting and Rendering - all of which shouldn't be learned separately since there's no ignoring the delicate dance and codependency between them. Lighting, for instance, will drive some of your material choices since materials interact with light. The How To, Tips and Why elements will answer your questions and become an invaluable at-your-fingertips resource.