Get the essential training you need to create high-quality 3D models and animations in Maya 2017. This course covers the core Maya skills-modeling, texturing, rendering, and animation-within a real-world project-based workflow that translates equally well to film, motion graphics, and game design.

It starts with the basics of selecting and manipulating objects and organizing scenes, as you learn the interface and explore Maya's features. Author George Maestri then takes you through polygonal modeling, creating and refining meshes, sculpting, and NURBS modeling. Once you understand modeling, George will show how to create and apply materials to surfaces—adding color, texture, and reflectivity. He'll then integrate cameras, lighting, and depth-of-field effects into the rendering process, using the built-in software renderer, mental ray, and the new Arnold for Maya renderer. Last but not least, he'll show how to add movement and life to your work with Maya's animation tools.

Topics include:

Getting familiar with the Maya interface
Configuring viewports and workspaces
Selecting and manipulating objects
Creating hierarchies and layers in scenes
Creating polygonal objects
Modeling and refining polygonal meshes
Working with subdivision surfaces
Sculpting a basic landscape
NURBs modeling
Projecting curves on surfaces
Creating and applying materials and textures
Adding lights and cameras to a scene
Adding depth of field and motion blur
Rendering
Animating in Maya