Best for Learning Maya: 3D Character Development Workshop
Maya is a capable 3D software enabling everything from 3D character and environment creation to full animation. For 3D modelers and creators looking to use one software for a complete workflow, Maya is a solid, professional option.
3D Character Development Workshop: Rigging Fundamentals for Artists and Animators offers a step-by-step guide through the process of creating a 3D character in Maya from start to finish. The book comes complete with color images and screenshots, so you can easily see what the author is doing and follow along.
In this book, you’ll learn about modeling a 3D character, applying UV maps and textures, rigging a character with a skeleton, animating your character and more. You’ll also have access to companion files that can help get you started quickly on each project.
Best for 3D Model Wireframes: The Pushing Points
If you’ve already picked out a software you want to work in and have a good idea of how to go about creating your own 3D models, you might get more use out of a book that goes in-depth into the technical side of 3D modeling.
The Pushing Points Topology Workbook: Volume 1 takes a close look at the mesh wireframes that are fundamental in 3D modeling. This book is software agnostic, so you can get something out of it whether you’re modeling in Blender, Maya, AutoCAD or anything else.
To better understand your 3D models, you need to have a grasp of the wireframe meshes that make them up. This workbook has explanations of the topology in a variety of 3D models and helps you visualize those models in new ways. Plus, as a workbook, it includes exercises to help you understand how to manage and manipulate your 3D meshes effectively.
With that understanding and plenty of practice, you’ll have a stronger foundation for 3D modeling in any software.