Based on the principle that people learn by doing, this hands-on tutorial follows a detailed method of instruction for this animation program. Readers are given step-by-step instructions that teach how to build a medieval castle, the Mercury Space Capsule, and more.

Computer Graphics & Graphics Applications

Includes companion DVD with trial versions of LightWave v9.2! Essential LightWave v9 offers an unparalleled guide to LightWave 3D. Written to help users quickly take control of the software, this book is filled with easy-to-understand explanations, time-saving tips and tricks, and detailed tutorials on nearly every aspect of the software, including the new features in LightWave v9.2! Key features: learn to model, light, surface animate, and render within the first seven chapters!; master the LightWave v9 Node Editor for advanced surfacing, texturing, and deformations; learn to model with polygons, Catmull-Clark/Subpatch SubDs, and splines; uncover the secrets of distortion-free UV mapping and high-quality texturing; learn to seamlessly composite 3D objects with real-world images; create professional-quality character animation using FK, IK, and IK Booster; enhance your animations with expressions, particle effects, and dynamics; set up a render farm to rip through complex rendering tasks.

Includes, beginning Sept. 15, 1954 (and on the 15th of each month, Sept.-May) a special section: School library journal, ISSN 0000-0035, (called Junior libraries, 1954-May 1961). Also issued separately.

Gain mastery of the next generation modeling and animation software with this revised edition, chocked full of hands-on, real-world examples, insider tips, and inspirational graphics that go beyond the basics to help users create professional-level scenes and animations. The CD guides users through the features and provides dozens of sample files and demo versions of plug-ins.