Polymodeling is a modeling technique used in 3d modeling. Unlike box modeling, or other forms of modeling where you start out with a basic form or primitive object that determines the mass of an object, artists can use the polygon (the basic building block of all of the primitives available in 3ds Max). This approach allows for more control over the flow, placement and detail of the meshes that are built. Placement of vertices/points, edges and all other sub-elements that build our models is determined by the user, rather than pre-determined by a computer generated primitive.

This book is a collection of tips, tricks and techniques on how to create professional models for advertising on T.V and the web. The author has tons of industry experience using Max toward this end, and he shares the secrets of his trade. As Production Modeler for some of today’s hottest studios (including GuerillaFx, Coke Zero, MTV, Old Navy, Nike, Target, HP) Todd Daniele brings real-world experience to the book. Daniele teaches the technical aspects of polymodeling, while showing how to ultimately create content in a dynamic, efficient manner.

Associated web site offers instructional files that show the models in progressive stages of development; plus a supporting internet forum: readers can log-on to this forum to ask questions or comment on anything covered in the book.

--Official Autodesk technique series book. We have the Autodesk green light for inclusion in the series.
--Collection of tips, tricks and techniques on how to create models for advertising, T.V and the web.
--Unique focus on polymodeling over box modeling.
--Quick techniques for deadline crunch - to speed workflow.
--Detailed exercises to take you step-by-step through the process of creating high quality models in a short amount of time.
--Author Todd Daniele (who is himself professionally generating Max assets for some of today’s hottest studios) shares his insider secrets.

Good Poly-modeling!

Poly-Modeling with 3ds Max has something for everyone be it a new person using Max or a more seasoned modeler. What I like most about this is the number of interesting and solid modeling exercises Todd presents. He starts off slow allowing you to build basic objects to get the feel for his technique. Please understand, this isn’t a typical, out of the technical documentation tutorial. It is a lesson on how to maximize the modeling tools. It is Todd sharing his special insights into the process. I have been using Max for years, but never used some the tools he recommended. When I did, I was delighted and surprised how good the tools were. For tools I knew about, Todd shows you new and effective ways to get the best out of them.

The key projects include making a motorcycle housing. This exercise provides a technical example of modeling. He then moves to a more natural, organic type by having you model an entire lizard. These were fun and effective tutorials. He provides a lot of pictures of each step in full color. The motorcycle was my least favorite because he doesn’t complete the entire bike or provide reference materials so you can. The lizard is a different story. He provides reference materials and the tutorial provides enough info for you to complete the entire lizard.

An added bonus, is the tutorials on ZBrush, Mudbox and Polyboost. I have used Mudbox and Polyboost before, but I learned something new when I tried the tutorials. I wanted more on Polyboost. I have never used ZBrush but found it a breeze to learn the basics after following Todd’s tutorial. To me, the Zbrush tutorial was the best of these.

This is a very good book about a specific, yet important, skill set. I do have some suggestions on what would make this book better. If Todd added videos on the modeling techniques, it would greatly enhance an already good book. The still pictures are really good, but sometimes seeing someone use the technique in an animated video just helps clarify how it would be done.

I highly recommend this book however. I think anyone will learn something new and improve their modeling skills. Also, there is something here for everyone.