best books on animation

#1

Hi everyone,
I am a newcomer to the art of animation and looking for the best books, yes books!, on animation. I have checked out a book called Animators survival kit by Richard Williams which I found very helpful even when doing 3D. Any books along the line of this book would be great. I am also looking for books on animating in MAYA software (using 2010). Something that goes in depth of the technical aspect of animating and how to do it in maya is what i am looking for. Thanks in advance!

#2

Hey there.
Let me start off by saying that “The Animator’s Survival Kit” by Richard Williams is by far one of the best books for animators. I have the book sitting next to my computer at all times. Although there are some books out that will help with animation in Maya, many of the books strictly talk about animation in general (whether it be for 2D or 3D - the same principles apply). As such, here are a few books that you might want to check out.

The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation
How to Cheat in Maya 2010
Animation Crash Course
Drawn to Life

The first, third, and fourth books are more akin to general principles for animation, whereas the second book is definitely a Maya book through-and-through. It goes through all the different techniques of animating in Maya and gives scene files for you to see the final result. It truly is a good book for the price. If you’re really strapped for cash, I would recommend the first two books out of all of them. But, of course, if you have to money, then I would suggest picking them all up.

Hope this helps. There are quite a few other books that specialize in certain aspects, such as facial animation, but these should help you to get started with the principles.

#3

Orry but i woudnt like to be rude but there are tons of thread regarding it i would just suggest you go and use search function on site or visit carlos baena website he has whole compilation
http://www.carlosbaena.com/resource/resource_books.html
:rolleyes:

#4

I would suggest the animators survival kit, its a great book for beginners and a good reference for later!

#5

This thread has been automatically closed as it remained inactive for 12 months. If you wish to continue the discussion, please create a new thread in the appropriate forum.