3D modelers use Maya in pipelines for animation, video game, VR/AR. Maya's integration with Mudbox complements general strengths, but professionals turn to specialized tools, including Photoshop, Quixel, 3D-Coat, and Allegorithmic. You will learn how to import/export in various formats, generate and refine models with polygonal geometry, digital sculpting, and textures. Tutorials demonstrate the use of individual photos to generate textures and shading networks, multiple photos to create 3D reference models, and how to use an XBox Kinect for an artist mirror and 3D scanner. This book guides the creation of simple props and environments, from cartoon characters to more realistic humans.
 
Key Features

Transforms geometric detail into textures (and vice versa) with clean, easy to rig and animate topology is emphasized, for both pre-rendered images and real-time.

Integrates workflow extremes between Maya's low poly cages and the ultra-dense meshes typical of Mudbox; additional applications for generating textures and shaders are also explored, including tools from texture painting suites Allegorithmic and Quixel.

Demonstrates low-cost but powerful methods for scanning facial expressions and objects for 3D reference material (123D Catch and Skanext), along with applications for refining models and textures (marmoset), showcasing them (Sketchfab), or interacting with them in real-time for games games or VR (Unity)

Extensive exercises are selected to emphasize objectives.