Maya Specific - A List of Books I Recomend for the Classroom

Digital Lighting and Rendering (2nd Edition) ([digital]) by Jeremy Birn (Paperback - May 7, 2006)

- This is by far my favorite Maya book. I have a heavy influence on lighting in my curriculum and this book not only is an excellent reference source, but also provides a website assignments updated regularly. They are not really assignments, but more like challenges and the practice files are provided in just about any format.

Stop Staring: Facial Modeling and Animation Done Right by Jason Osipa (Paperback - May 7, 2007)

- This is another one of my favorites. It must have for any one who is doing any type of facial animation. The book covers setting up a full facial rig and the provided CD contains all the scripts to create your own.


Exploring 3D Animation with Maya 6 (Design Exploration) by Patricia Beckmann and Young (Paperback - Feb 8, 2005)

- A little older book, but has amazing lessons for the students to follow and can be used and a textbook for a class or an individual.


mental ray for Maya, 3ds Max, and XSI: A 3D Artist's Guide to Rendering by Boaz Livny (Paperback - Feb 20, 2007)

Advanced Maya Texturing and Lighting by Lee Lanier (Paperback - Sep 19, 2006)

- A great reference guide for understanding materials and tips for creating difficult materials like realistic glass or metals.