by Gabby Hyman
gabby.hyman@hqpublications.com
Design Programs Columnist
Many film and video artists consider Maya software indispensable in the workplace. Whether you're creating visual effects, integrated 3D modeling, animation, and the toolkit is diverse and powerful.
If you're beginning your Maya training, the program can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, if you're just starting, or even if you're stepping up to the Maya Unlimited suite, you can find, books, CDs, and Maya training videos online that prepare you for work in the field. Many colleges and dedicated animation schools offer a complete Maya curriculum online.
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Intensive Maya Programs
Alias, the company that produces Maya, offers CD and digital training from its website, including introduction, intermediate, and motion graphics courses. There are many private Maya training arts schools that take you through the software online, using streaming video. Several 40-hour online Maya programs cover modeling, texturing, lighting, animation, and effects modules.
You'll also find online BA or BS degree programs in animation and digital effects, which ensure that you hone your Maya skills before heading to the workplace. A number of online certification or diploma programs in animation offer thorough Maya training, which lead to creation of your own demo reel. Of course, a demo reel is essential for job placement in animation or digital effects.
The more comprehensive programs not only focus on software, but also cover the physics of human motion, folklore, rendered character psychology, and life-drawing techniques
Get prepared for an exciting design career. At The Art Institutes, you'll receive hands-on training from industry professionals, plus you'll build your portfolio.
Survey the Field
Before enrolling in an online certification or degree program in animation arts, it's vital to ascertain if the institution is accredited, whether it has direct connections in the industry (critical), and if the faculty has practical industry experience. Many schools include the cost of the registered Maya software in their tuition.
About the Author
Gabby Hyman has written for print and online media for more than 20 years. He has created online content for eToyds, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Avaya, and Nissan UK. He has also been a web consultant to the Governer of California. As an author of fiction, journalism, and poetry, Gabby is a former English professor for the University of Illinois, University of Alaska, and Old Dominion University. He holds and MFA in fiction writing from the University of Alabama.
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