This work includes a companion website, which provides new updates and tutorials for version 6! If you are an artist who's new to Alias's Maya, or are moving over to use this powerful, Oscar-winning animation and effects software from another 3D package, you will find this book invaluable. It provides you with all you need to know to get up and running with this difficult software, fast! Focusing only on the key things you need to know when starting out it doesn't overload you, so speeds up your learning process. Highly illustrated in color throughout this book benefits from a clear, concise, jargon free style. Written by a LucasArts professional it will provide invaluable knowledge that will help you get that elusive first job in animation! You can save time - focused, concise coverage of just the key features you need to get started with Maya. It is written for Maya 5 but is relevant for all versions - including Maya (Complete) and the free Personal Learning Edition. It is ideal for professionals new to Maya as well as students wanting to get to grips with this Oscar-winning animation and effects software.