Blender is a free and open source 3D creation suite that is a
real alternative to commercially available 3D design software. A
cross-platform software package with millions of downloads
annually, Blender is now one of the world's most popular 3D design
tools.
Although Blender is free, it's intended for design professionals
and others motivated to become 3D artists. The Essential
Blender will provide you with the knowledge you need to help
integrate Blender into your work and begin to master its powerful
creation tools.
If you've never tried 3D design before, an introductory chapter
will familiarize you with relevant terminology and concepts. If
you're already experienced with commercial 3D software, The
Essential Blender will get you up to speed with Blender
quickly.
After a tour of Blender's 3D modeling, animation, and rendering
capabilities, you'll learn how best to use Blender for these
tasks-
- Object manipulation and animation
- Mesh and sculpt modeling and shape animation
- Materials and texturing (including UV unwrapping)
- Lighting and rendering
- Particle animation
- Character rigging and animation
- Node-based composition
The book is modular in its approach, with each topic addressed
independently and accompanied by hands-on tutorial sections.
The combined expertise of key members of the Blender community,
coupled with the experience of editor Roland Hess, bring you The
Essential Blender—the definitive guide to Blender. You'll find a
wealth of 3D design information inside that will help you to unlock
your artistic potential and get the most out of Blender.
Includes a Complete Version of Blender 2.44 on the CD-ROM.
Covers Windows, Mac OS X, Linux (x86 and PowerPC), Solaris,
FreeBSD, and IRIX.
