An excellent introduction to Maya as well as 3D
I started modeling and learning 3D products 8 years ago, with now old and relatively simple Truespace and 3D Studio Max versions, and wanted to get a taste of Maya. I found that different 3D products offer different capabilities and that combining them can result in something new and original, and that some tasks are done easier in some than others. To get a head start I figured I'd get me a book. I have a pretty good experience with Sybex books (for IT exams) and noticed they have an entire series for Maya so I figured I'd start with this one (Introducing Maya 6, 3D for beginners).
The book is a fast-read, and it's complete. It shows you the basic techniques and features in Maya, but also how to apply them. Additionally, you'll get a rather complete introduction to 3D in general, preventing you from wasting time on basic lighting setups for example. I really like how this book shows you the practical side of modeling, texturing, animating, lighting, and rendering, and at the same time gives you a good idea of the real-world production process.
One of the modeling examples, the catapult, seems like a lot of work, but when you get this book, make sure you go through the entire tutorial. It shows you the common (at least for me) modeling technique and after you finish it, you 'will' be able to create your own models.
As the title says, it's an introduction, it is for beginners. You will need to learn a lot more to get the most out of Maya, but it will definitely get you started in an efficient manner and give you a taste of Maya, and an appetite for more.
Johan
3Dvalley.com
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