Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy; familiarity with visual arts or animation is helpful
Software Required: Autodesk Maya (latest version)
Certification: Certificate of Completion from Thakral Global Learning + Preparation for Autodesk Certified User: Maya
📖 Course Overview:
This course is a complete introduction to 3D animation, modeling, and visual storytelling using Autodesk Maya, the industry-standard software for film, television, and game design. Participants will explore the entire 3D animation pipeline including modeling, texturing, rigging, animation, lighting, and rendering. The course is hands-on, project-based, and designed to prepare students for the Autodesk Certified User – Maya certification.
✅ Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Navigate the Maya interface and tools efficiently
- Create detailed 3D models using polygonal, NURBS, and sculpting methods
- Apply textures, shaders, and materials for realistic surfaces
- Rig and animate characters and objects
- Light and render scenes for cinematic visuals
- Build a personal portfolio and prepare for the ACU: Maya certification exam
🧩 Course Modules:
Module 1: Introduction to Maya & 3D Animation Pipeline
- What is 3D animation? Overview of the production process
- Maya interface and navigation
- Project setup and file management
- Key concepts: scenes, objects, transforms
Module 2: Polygon Modeling & Sculpting
- Creating and editing polygonal meshes
- Edge loops, extrusions, and subdivisions
- Working with NURBS and curve modeling
- Sculpting tools and hard surface modeling
- Hands-on: Model a stylized character or prop
Module 3: UV Mapping & Texturing
- Unwrapping UVs and creating UV layouts
- Applying and editing materials
- Introduction to Arnold Shaders
- Working with textures and image maps
- Hands-on: Texture a 3D character or asset
Module 4: Rigging & Skinning
- Understanding joints, bones, and hierarchies
- Building IK and FK systems
- Binding skins and weight painting
- Creating simple control rigs
- Hands-on: Rig and prepare a character for animation
Module 5: Animation Fundamentals
- Keyframing, timing, and spacing
- Graph editor and animation curves
- Applying the 12 principles of animation
- Walk cycles and object animation
- Hands-on: Animate a bouncing ball and a walk cycle
Module 6: Lighting, Cameras & Rendering
- 3-point lighting and environment lighting
- Working with Maya lights and Arnold renderer
- Setting up cameras and framing shots
- Rendering stills and animations
- Hands-on: Light and render a short scene
Module 7: Effects & Scene Composition
- Introduction to dynamics: particles, fluids, and cloth
- Using deformers and blend shapes
- Scene organization and layer management
- Compositing basics and render passes
Module 8: Project Development & Portfolio Building
- Capstone project: character or environment animation
- Storyboarding and planning
- Scene setup and production pipeline
- Exporting animations and showreel tips
Module 9: Certification Prep
- Overview of Autodesk Certified User: Maya exam
- Practice tasks and mock questions
- Tips for passing the ACU exam
- Final review and feedback session
📝 Assessment & Evaluation:
- Practical assignments after each module
- Mid-course animation challenge
- Final capstone project (animation short or demo reel)
- Mock certification exam
💼 Career Pathways:
- 3D Animator
- Character Artist
- Game Designer
- VFX Artist
- Environment Modeler
- Multimedia/CG Generalist
🌟 Why Choose This Course at Thakral Global Learning?
- Industry-standard Autodesk Maya training
- Certified instructors with production experience
- Project-based learning and portfolio development
- Autodesk Certification readiness support
- Access to Maya via Autodesk Education licensing
