The Art of 3-D : Computer Animation and Imaging, 2nd Edition

Many computer animation books focus on one specific program, and if any historical information is referenced, it is merely to put the program into perspective. While this approach is useful for artists who need to learn more about an application, it creates tunnel vision for anyone new to the field who is trying to get oriented. The Art of 3-D Computer Animation and Imaging escapes this trap by deftly illuminating the history of computer graphics and animation. It brings the reader up to speed on current trends both in practice and in research.

Lavishly illustrated, this second edition includes color images from such recent films as Blue Sky Studio's Oscar-winning short, Bunny, and from Pixar's short, Geri's Game. The rendering techniques used in Bunny and the animated cloth techniques used in Geri's Game are discussed, as are topics like advanced modeling, lighting, and shading and surface characteristics. Advanced animation concepts such as motion dynamics, procedural animation, crowd animation, and interactive animation are covered in chapter 12.

Software- and hardware-specific issues don't come up much, but they are mentioned since the tools that are available offer specific features that affect the look of the rendered image. For the most part, though, techniques are discussed in general terms. The burden of specific application falls on the reader.

Ideal for both the new and advanced user, this book is thorough and enjoyable to read. Full of ideas and free of platform or software bias, you'll want to read it while sitting in a comfortable chair rather than at a desk or in front of a monitor. --Mike Caputo