In Modeling a Character in Maya, join author Ryan Kittleson for a thorough demonstration on how to create a professional, realistic 3D character from scratch in Maya 2011. The course illustrates how key concepts and tools such as Soft Select and polygon extrusions apply to character modeling, and provides a simple step-by-step approach to building character anatomy, including the torso, limbs, hands, face, and hair. Also included are tutorials on modeling clothing and shoes, and refining character features to reach the final product. Exercise files accompany the course.

Recommended prerequisites: Maya 2011 Essential Training

Topics include:

Smoothing out rough, polygonal surfaces with Smooth Preview

Fashioning limbs and features from an existing model

Manipulating polygons to create detail

Using the Sculpt Geometry tool to make organic changes

Modeling facial structure and the body

Creating hair with NURBS curves

Modeling pants, shoes, and shirts

Forming creases and hard edges

Fixing problem areas

Applying the finishing touches