Mastering Autodesk VIZ 4

In Mastering Autodesk VIZ 4, world–renowned AutoCAD expert George Omura teaches you how to get the most out of Autodesk's powerful 3D design, modeling, and animation tool. Whether you re entirely new to VIZ or just want to get up to speed on its newest features, including radiosity rendering and the improved interface, this book offers the explanations and the clear, step–by–step instruction you need to put VIZ to work in the most demanding design projects.

Coverage Includes:

• Finding your way around in VIZ
• Creating realistic and dramatic lighting effects
• Importing and exporting AutoCAD files
• Creating walls and doors
• Creating complex shapes
• Matching designs to background photographs
• Creating materials and applying them to objects
• Creating 3D geometry from bitmap images
• Using scanned images as backgrounds
• Setting up animated walk–throughs
• Using radiosity to create lifelike views of a scene
• Adding props to VIZ models
• Producing design presentation views
• Placing the sun in a scene for accurate sun–shadow studies
• Using Photoshop with VIZ to create 3D effects

Chapter 1: Getting to Know VIZ.

Chapter 2: Introducing VIZ Objects.

Chapter 3: Creating Shapes with Splines.

Chapter 4: Editing Meshes for Complex Objects.

Chapter 5: Organizing and Editing Objects.

Chapter 6: Adding Cameras and Lights.

Chapter 7: Enhancing Models with Materials.

Chapter 8: Controlling Lights and Materials.

Chapter 9: Staging Your Design.

Chapter 10: Working with Files.

Chapter 11: Using Radiosity.

Chapter 12: Creating an Animation.

Chapter 13: Understanding Animation Files.

Chapter 14: Using Photoshop with VIZ.

Chapter 15: Combining Photographs with VIZ Designs.

Chapter 16: Using AutoCAD with VIZ.

Appendix A: Installation Notes.

Appendix B: Modifiers and Materials.

Appendix C: Patches and NURBS Surfaces.

Appendix D: Helpers and Effects.

Index.