The first chapter of Introducing Character Animation with Blender is very much what you would expect: an introduction to the essentials of Blender. Even intermediate or experienced users may glean something interesting or previously unknown from this first chapter, I know I did, even though the author invited those familiar with the basics to skip to chapter 2…

Those new to Blender (aka, newbies) will want to spend some time here, and not skim too much. Open up Blender and try to master the concepts covered in this chapter. This will assure you a smoother transition into the material covered in chapter 2 (a headlong dive into character modeling). Nothing is worse than discouragement caused by an inadequate knowledge of the basics. Also, check out the video tutorials at blender.org (especially these) and follow along, they’ll help you master the basics of Blender’s interface and get familiar with working with objects.

Some useful inclusions in chapter 1 are: a window type overview; a hot-key reference; an introduction to data blocks including an overview of the OOPS schematic; and discussion about orphan data blocks and fake users. Although this chapter will read better for those who have had experience with 3D applications previously, any sufficiently motivated beginner will benefit from this material if they’re not in too much of a hurry to get on with it.

I would again recommend supplemental material, like the tutorials mentioned above, if you are new to 3D. You may also want to check out the Blender Wiki. Character modeling and animation are advanced topics and appear to be well covered within this book, but nothing can replace a decent foundation in the basics.

<< Introduction — Chapter 2 >>

LINKS:

Blender Basics Part 1 – Blender Underground’s video tutorials for getting started
Blender Basics Part 2
Blender Basics Part 3
Blender Basics Part 3 Supplemental

Purchase Book at Blender.org

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