Mastering 3D Studio MAX R3

3D Studio MAX is used to create special effects for films, television, advertisements and games. This book presents practical examples and exercises that teach novices and experienced users alike how to get the most from MAX. This text instructs about sculpting and texturing characters, putting them in motion, lighting the scene, and producing the final animation-for movies, games, television and even the Web. It also covers: understanding basic 3D concepts; familiarization with the MAX interface; using MAX modelling tools; applying keyframe animation, controllers and expressions in MAX; creating and refining materials; lighting and colouring scenes; rendering and optimizing animation; getting started with MAXScript; using MAXScript to build and animate scenes more easily; customizing the user interface; creating one's own plug-ins using MAXScript. The accompanying CD contains textures for use in one's own modelling projects, along with MAX plug-ins, a colour guide, and a range of sample animation files and images.