Exclusively endorsed by Autodesk, this comprehensive tutorial and reference thoroughly covers 3ds Max Design, the 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software used for architectural visualizations. It also includes essential material for students preparing for the new Certified Associate and Certified Professional exams. Examples come from projects that architects, designers, and planners actually encounter each day, while the workflows and instructions have been tested in real-world applications.

• The official guide endorsed by Autodesk, with comprehensive information on using 3ds Max Design 2011 as well as achieving certification
• Features step-by-step instructions and real-world projects that readers will actually encounter
• Covers using the 3ds Max interface, working with Revit and AutoCAD files, using the data and scene management tools, modeling, simulating lighting effects, analyzing sustainable design features, setting up animated walkthroughs, and much more
• Explains how to render real-world surfaces with architectural material and how to choose the renderer that creates the desired effect

Mastering Autodesk 3ds Max Design 2011 covers every facet of this powerful program.

2 Introducing 3ds Max Objects.

3 Creating Shapes with Splines.

4 Editing Meshes and Creating Complex Objects.

5 Working with External Design Data.

6 Creating AEC Objects.

7 Organizing and Editing Objects.

8 Light and Shadow.

9 Enhancing Models with Materials.

10 Using the 3ds Max Camera.

11 Working with External Files.

12 Understanding Animation.

13 Creating Animations.

14 Advanced Rendering Using mental ray.

15 Finishing It Off: Atmosphere, Effects, and Compositing.

Mark Gerhard is a 3ds Max Design guru and educator. He was one of the first artists hired by Autodesk to test the first version of this software in 1990, and he wrote many of the tutorials that ship with 3ds Max. He continues to train 3ds Max users. Jeffrey M. Harper uses 3ds Max Design to create architectural and civil engineering visualizations, models, stills, and animations used in computer-based training programs and visual effects.