Principles of Three-Dimensional Computer Animation: Modeling, Rendering, and Animating With 3d Computer Graphics (Norton Books for Architects & Designers)

This new edition of O'Rourke's text is a must-have for the novice 3D animator. Clear and elegant descriptions of how 3D animation programs actually work offer the animator unique insight into the logical organization of the most popular programs. It can be used both as a textbook and as a reference, and this new edition is up-to-date. The sections on procedural maps, hierarchical animation, blended surfaces and metaballs are very useful. One caveat: this is a general text which explores the structure of 3D animation programs and is therefore broadly applicable. It is not a book about a specific 3D package.

I found "Three-Dimensional Computer Animation" to be a particularly clearly written and clearly illustrated book, especially given the complexity of this field. The book covers the chief concepts in 3D modeling, rendering and animation and provides detailed technical explanations rare in books for artists and designers. Amazingly, O'Rourke does this without relying on jargon or assuming a scientific or mathematical background (or writing an inconveniently long book). Artists and designers working in 3D will find this a valuable resource as they seek to better understand the potential of 3D graphics and to master this new and often demanding medium. "Three-Dimensional Computer Animation" is appropriate for classroom use and also as a guide and reference for working artists, designers, and animators.

Michael O'Rourke's book, Principles of Three Dimensional Computer Animation, is a great asset for beginner and advanced 3D animators. Throughout my graduate studies, as a 3D animator, I've read many 3D manuals. None compare to O'Rourke's coherent writing style and updated animation/modeling/rendering procedures.

I'm entirely new to 3D modeling and animation. I found this book to be exceptionally well written. The author provides a clear and concise explanation of the principles of 3D computer graphics, with easy-to-understand examples throughout. As stated in other reviews, it is not software specific. If you are looking for an introductory but thorough 3D primer, I recommend this book without reservation. It should provide a solid foundation for those who have little or no prior computer graphics experience.

As an instructor in 3D computer animation I find this book to be an excellent text for the classroom. O'Rourke knows his stuff and presents the material in a well-thought out, logical format. The only negative is that it's time for a new release.