In Silico introduces Maya programming into one of the most fascinating application areas of 3D graphics: biological visualization. In five building-block tutorials, this book prepares animators to work with visualization problems in cell biology. The book assumes no deep knowledge of cell biology nor 3D graphics programming. An accompanying DVD-ROM includes code derived from the tutorials, the working Maya computer files, and sample animated movies. The interior of the book contains generous Maya screen captures, tables, and flowcharts to compliment the instruction and tutorials. Full 4 color illustrations rendered from the authors' working files illustrate the capacity to produce striking pictures from the rendered models being created. Throughout the text, key words are set in bold type and subsequently defined in a glossary. Page margin tips and tricks compliment the adjacent copy, and icons direct the reader to specific references within the Maya Help library. The visualizations in the book are stunning examples of the state of the art.
*Teaches artists and scientists to create realistic digital images of humans and nature with popular CG program, Maya
*This self-contained study guide includes background, foundations, and practice
*Step-by-step example programs and end-result demonstrations help readers develop thie own portfolios