Discusses the latest techniques for the most popular 3D animation and modeling software in the digital design industry. Shows the reader how to render an object for the modeling process, and create 3D animations and visual effects. Highlights the uses of MAX as a character animation tool. Provides users with a comprehensive reference for creating effects for film, movies, and games. Guides readers through comprehensible lessons that build their special-effects skills for moviemaking in a simple manner. This is different from competitors' books, which are notoriously difficult to understand. Discusses how to use affordable PCs to create the kinds of animations and special effects that traditionally required costly graphics workstations and supercomputers. Unlike competitors' books that are complex and offer no color, 3D Studio MAX R3 In Depth is easy to use and understand, and includes a stellar 32-page Color Studio that showcases the sophisticated results that readers can create through the projects in the book. Contains all of the significant MAX and image files used for demonstration in the book so that readers can experiment directly with the concepts presented. Offers a collection of powerful MAX scripts to both teach the methods and value of this technology and to provide a set of helpful tools. Samples of rendered and animated objects and third-party and custom MAX plug-ins.