One of the country's leading instructors of Softimage offers dozens of step-by-step exercises, secret techniques from notable experts in the sidebars, and fabulous imagery from great Softimage artists. Completely full color, the book provides the optimum learning environment for this complex software. The CD-ROM contains cross-platform NT/SGI IRIX and popular shareware plug-ins.

Teaches beginning students everything they need to know to render out exceptional frames. Also provides comprehensive information about textures, how they are projected onto models, and how to use them to modulate bump, transparency, reflectivity, and other surface properties.

Improve your 3D animation by understanding the key traditional 2D skills. Learn the basics for producing original and exciting animation.

"Softimage Design Guide" teaches the 3D savvy reader the necessary skills to create commercial-quality animations and 3D models with Softimage. The authors have also included a special insider look at some of Softimage's coolest, most powerful, and least-known tools. The CD-ROM features sample scenes and objects, 14 custom projects, and dozens of sample textures and pre-rendered animations.

Crafting a perfect rendering in 3D software means nailing all the details. And no matter what software you use, your success in creating realistic-looking illumination, shadows and textures depends on your professional lighting and rendering techniques. In this lavishly illustrated new edition, Pixar's Jeremy Birn shows you how to: Master Hollywood lighting techniques to produce professional results in any 3D application Convincingly composite 3D models into real-world environments Apply advanced rendering techniques using subsurface scattering, global illumination, caustics, occlusion, and high dynamic range images Design realistic materials and paint detailed texture maps Mimic real-life camera properties such as f-stops, exposure times, depth-of-field, and natural color temperatures for photorealistic renderings Render in multiple passes for greater efficiency and creative control Understand production pipelines at visual effects and animation studios Develop your lighting reel to get a job in the industry

This book will help you understand and work with XSI 4 to create a highly detailed character in a production environment. The approach in this book is unique because it is the result of a collaboration between art and technology.