Learning Maya, the world's leading 3D animation and effects package, is a challenge, especially for those who want to master Maya's versatile programming features in addition to its built-in tools.

Finally, here is a practical, step-by-step guide that shows how to use Maya to its fullest potential, beginning with the basics. Readers of Complete Maya Programming will first gain a thorough understanding of Maya's inner workings, and then learn how to customize and extend Maya with scripts and plugins that take control and productivity to new levels.

Users new to programming can apply Maya's easy scripting language MEL (Maya Embedded Language), while more advanced users can work with the C++ API (Application Progamming Interface). Both a fundamental tutorial for Maya beginners and a solid reference for experienced developers, Complete Maya Programming is every user's guide to Maya mastery.

Demonstrates how to use MEL to control Maya, customize its interface, automate procedures, and more
Details how to use the C++ API to modify Maya functionality and develop tools and features to meet any need
Explains when to use MEL, when to use the C++ API, and how to use them together
Provides a multitude of real-world examples illustrating applications of Maya programming
Ideal for technical directors, developers, or anyone wishing to to master Maya
Provides a storehouse of MEL scripts and C++ source code, glossary, and list of resources, available at www.davidgould.com

• Chapter 1: Introduction Chapter
  • 1.1 Maya's Programmability
  • 1.2 Programming Interfaces
• Chapter 2: Fundamental Maya Concepts
  • 2.1 Maya Architecture
  • 2.2 Dependency Graph
• Chapter 3: MEL
  • 3.1 Introduction
  • 3.2 The MEL Programming Language
  • 3.3 Scripting
  • 3.4 Objects
  • 3.5 Animation
  • 3.6 Graphical User Interfaces
  • 3.7 Expressions
• Chapter 4: C++ API
  • 4.1 Introduction
  • 4.2 Fundamental Concepts
  • 4.3 Developing Plugins
  • 4.4 Commands
  • 4.5 Nodes
  • 4.6 Locators
  • 4.7 Manipulators
  • 4.8 Deformers
  • 4.9 Advanced C++ API
• Appendix A: Additional Resources
• Appendix B: MEL for C Programmers
• Appendix C: Further Reading
• Glossary
• Index