Summary:
From blockbuster movies to TV and Web advertising, the fastest growing demand in 3D design is for photorealistic quality. Drawing on a range of real-world examples, this book provides a set of skills and techniques that designers will need to master no matter what program they use. It covers 3D photorealistic modeling, surfacing, and staging. Examples from the following programs are included: LightWave, 3D Studio Max, Form Z, Electric Image, Softimage, and Strata.

Includes Companion Web site with... * Demo versions of several 3D software programs. * Software-independent detailed tutorials on modeling, staging, and surfacing.

Table of Contents:
REALITY IS CHAOS.

Chaos--A Reality Primer.

PHOTOREALISTIC MODELING TECHNIQUES.

Detail--The Main Component of Reality.

Material--What's It Made Of?

Construction--How's It Assembled?

Movement--What Are the Mechanics of Objects?

Beveling--The Key to Specular Reality.

Dents and Dings--Aging Your Models.

PHOTOREALISTIC SURFACING TECHNIQUES.

Photorealistic Surfacing Fundamentals.

Image Map Surfaces.

Procedural Textures.

PHOTOREALISTIC STAGING TECHNIQUES.

Planning Your Scene.

Adding Chaos--Creating Clutter.

PHOTOREALISTIC CAMERA AND LIGHTING TECHNIQUES.

Camera Positioning.

Lighting for Every Occasion.

Appendices.

Index.