Autodesk 3ds Max 2009 is a mature, robust, full-featured 3D modeling and animation application used by the world's top 3D professional artists and designers. In this course students are first introduced to the 3ds Max User Interface and how to customize it for better understanding and workflow. Students will then learn about the basic 2D tools and how to make simple models in Max, before getting into more in-depth understanding of the 3D modeling tools. The instructor moves on to introduce Lighting, Cameras and Rendering followed by the Materials Editor and Animation tools. Later in the course, the author discusses Particle Systems, Effects and Simulation within 3ds Max and even includes a chapter that introduces "Character Rigging". Work files are included.

Video Copilot - 3D Studio Max - Soft Shadows

• Cast soft shadows with a fast-rendering lighting array
• Break up text characters and animate individually

Video Copilot - 3D Studio Max - Organic Mesh

• Build organic mesh with noise modifiers from a sphere
• Use procedural texturing to give a uneven monster skin