Expert: Andre Hickman - 9/7/2004

Question
Hello,
I am really interested in 3d design and i have a bit more than a beginner experience in 3ds max 6.  I found a "big" book on this program called THE BIBLE OF 3ds max. the book is a bit expensive and i am not sure whether it is worth buying. please give me your opinion on it if you have any idea. thanx.

Answer
Hey Emad,

The 3ds Max Bible is a great reasource, however, I don't think that is the book you want to spend your money on, especially if funds are limited. It is pretty much just a reference book, and I would suggest (in that area) to get a reference book called "The Visual Quickstart Guide" for 3DS Max, which is published by Peachpit Press.

I think what you are looking for, though, is something that will stimulate your creative processes, and how you think about using the particular functions that Max has available.  I would suggest going to a book store and looking for tutorial books (with pictures!) that basically have specific projects in them, such as modelling a character, creating a scene and animation, or some special FX project.  Here is my rule of thumb...  ...when I go to a bookstore, I look for the "New Riders" publishing logo on the spine.  THEY PUBLISH THE BEST BOOKS OUT THERE!!! (and one day they are going to pay me for endorsing them sooo much!)

I've gotten books by them that teach media animation, character rigging, special effects, and even other software books, etc. and most of the books come with a CD. Go to PeachPit.com and click on the peachpit family, and click New Riders.  There you can find their series of books, from "magic", to "killer tips" and a host of books for all types of software.  And don't be stuck on getting a book for your particular version of max.  Usually earlier version books are discounted, so stock up when you find them! They will still have the incredible info that you are looking for and be a very valuable addition to your library. Also check out their books for Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.  You will need them as you get further into 3D. I hope this helps...again, when you go to the bookstore, open the books and look for special fx tutorials you may want to try, color pictures, an included CD, and of course.....NEW RIDERS...NEW RIDERS....NEW RIDERS as the publishing company.  Regardless who the author is, you know if it says NEW RIDERS, it will be a quality book!

(Hey New Riders...  ...where's mah check! *smile*)

Cheers,
Andre'