A guide to creating short three-dimensional films that includes examples, exercises, case studies, and more to help producers understand the basic concepts, theories, and applications of 3D film production; includes a DVD with dozens of award-winning short films.

Clark's book takes an in-depth look at the methods and technology that professionals use to create realistic and believable characters using computer technology.

To survive in today?s competitive 3D computer graphics industry, one must possess the technical and artistic skills necessary to create believable visual effects. Through tutorials, interviews, and industry-proven examples, this book provides a complete breakdown of lighting and compositing a digital image or scene, from the basic concepts of lighting to the advanced and challenging special effects used on some of the most well-known feature films in recent history. This exploration of the day-to-day workings of veterans in the visual effects industry makes Inspired 3D Lighting and Compositing a great tool for anyone looking to break into the field.

Packed with illustrations, this book explains the methods and techniques of animation preproduction, with a focus on story development and character design.

Behind each shot there lies an idea or purpose. When setting up a shot, the camera operator can employ a range of visual techniques that will clearly communicate the idea to an audience. Composition is the bedrock of the operator's craft, yet is seldom taught in training courses in the belief that it is an intuitive, personal skill. Peter Ward shows how composition can be learned, to enhance the quality of your work. Based on the author's own practical experience, the book deals with the methods available for resolving practical production questions such as: Does the shot composition accurately reflect the idea that initiated the shot? Will the content and method of presenting the subject accurately convey the idea? Major innovations in television and film production since the previous edition have affected the styles of composition, such as wide-screen and the use of mini DV cameras. These new technologies and their implications for picture composition are addressed in this new edition. A new colour plate section is also being included to update the section on colour. If you are a practising camera operator, trainee camera operator, student or lecturer on a television or film production course, or simply a video enthusiast wishing to progress to a more professional standard you will find this book essential in enhancing the quality of your work.

Desktop computer artists will find a wealth of information in this heavily illustrated book. It instructs in the principles, practice, and techniques of successful animation. The author covers all forms of animation, starting with the basics of making sketches in flip books, and concluding with the latest developments in computer-generated imagery. He demonstrates with practical examples that utilize key areas of modern animationï¿1/2cell art, stop-action with clay or plastic models, and 3D computer-generated and web-based animations. This volumeï¿1/2s six chapters cover the following topics: The art of story telling and storyboarding . . . How to create stop-action animation . . . Simple cell animation, the technique for simple movie cartoon sequences . . . Full cell animation, as used by Disney, Warner Brothers, and similar studios . . . Web animation for showcasing your skill over the Internet . . . and Computer modeling and animation, including 3D modeling. The bookï¿1/2s concluding sections discuss modern hardware and software, with emphasis on affordable beginnersï¿1/2 equipment. Also provided is an overview of the animation industry and its applications to movies, TV, and computer games. More than 250 instructive illustrations enhance this fascinating how-to volume.

An exploration of first person narrative documentary in China's post-Mao era