From the Back Cover **The Ultimate Maya 2011 Resource!** If you already know the fundamentals of Maya, you'll want this new Autodesk Official Training Guide to take you beyond the basics and show you how to use Maya 2011 in a professional environment. From modeling, texturing, animation, and visual effects—to high-level techniques for film, television, games, and more, this book provides advanced, professional-level instruction. Filled with challenging tutorials and real-world scenarios from some of the leading professionals in the industry, this must-have guide shows you how to manage the entire CG production pipeline. Master Maya's new graph editor, rendering with mental ray, the art of virtual cinematography, dynamic simulations, advanced modeling techniques, and much more with this indispensable guide. **Featured on the DVD** The companion DVD provides support files that help you complete the exercises in the book and compare your work to the pros. Combine fluid dynamics and particle simulations for amazing visual effects Add physically accurate outdoor lighting to your rendered images Learn the secrets of making realistic materials for your models About the Author **Eric Keller** has been a professional 3D artist and high-end animator for film, commercials, and TV for 12 years. He has created animations and effects for Disney, Warner Brothers, ESPN, Harvard Medical School, the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, and CBS, and currently teaches at the Gnomon School of Visual Effects. Eric is the author of *Mastering Maya 2009*, *Maya Visual Effects: The Innovator's Guide*, and *Introducing ZBrush*, all from Sybex.