In 3ds Max 2010 Essential Training, instructor Steve Nelle provides a thorough introduction to the techniques needed to take an animated project from start to finish. Steve provides new users with everything they need to know to get up and running, while offering experienced users plenty of tips and tricks they can apply to improve their productivity and workflow. He walks through the program's newly designed interface, details how to create both simple and complex objects, and shows how to bring things to life through a variety of keyframing techniques.

The only comprehensive tutorial/reference exclusively devoted to Autodesk's robust architectural visualization software

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.

What’s New
Innovative Graphite Modeling Toolset
Create models quickly and efficiently with the new Graphite modeling toolset. Graphite takes 3ds Max polygon modeling to a new level by delivering over 100 tools for advanced polygonal modeling and freeform design. Because the Graphite tools are displayed in one central location, it‘s easy to find the tools you need for the job. With Graphite you can customize the tool display or hide the command panel and model in Expert Mode.

Material Explorer
Easily manage complex scenes using the new Material Explorer, a productivity-enhancing toolset that simplifies the way users interact with objects and materials. Use it to quickly browse and replace materials in your scene, and to view material properties and relationships.

Autodesk® 3ds Max® 2010 modeling, animation, and rendering software builds on the excellence of its current features while adding a host of new tools and functionalities. With 3ds Max 2010 software, professionals in the game development, television, film, and digital publishing industries will find the toolsets they need for a comprehensive 3D modeling and 3D animation solution right out of the box