The animation sector is on a growth trajectory and 3D animation has become one of the most competitive areas within this industry. With the demand for 3D movies, television, and games on the rise, it makes sense that would-be animators want to differentiate themselves from the competition and build up their skills as much as possible.

While there are many software programs to choose from, Autodesk Maya is one of the most important programs for animators to master. Let’s take a closer look at Maya—including why it’s so popular and how prospective animators can learn this tool of the trade.

What Is Maya 3D?

Autodesk Maya, known as Maya or Maya 3D, is a computer graphics program that’s used for all kinds of 3D animation in films, television, games, and visual effects (VFX). It’s intended to run on Windows, Mac OS, and Linux operating systems and was first released in the late 1990s. Since then, it’s won awards and has been used in notable films such as Frozen II, Moana, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and more. In general, Maya is seen as a platform that provides incredible performance, superior responsiveness, and advanced features that animators need to create dynamic performances.

Maya has been used in notable films such as Frozen II, Moana, and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.

Why Use This 3D Animation Tool?

Because Maya is so readily used in the film industry, it’s a versatile option that provides animators with the tools they need to tell a compelling story. While software is always evolving, the skills needed to use Maya 3D will serve animators well throughout their careers. Maya often helps animators work more quickly and efficiently, which is essential for any studio, and the dynamic effects offered by the Maya suite can replicate realism to an impressive degree. Because Maya is utilized by many major companies and animation studios, learning how to use this program is an essential step in the professional development of any future animator.

How Can I Learn How to Use Maya 3D?

As the animation industry’s most popular 3D animation software, Maya plays an integral role in your future career. Enrolling in 3D animation courses that focus on Autodesk Maya will ensure your education is as well-rounded as possible from the very start, and that nothing will hold you back from pursuing your career aspirations.

Although it’s certainly possible to teach yourself how to use a variety of animation programs, we recommend that anyone who is serious about pursuing a career in this field enroll in a Maya course. We’ve found that the students who take our Maya Workshop do much better in our other 3D animation courses. Instead of struggling with Maya and learning by trial and error, our mentor-led workshop gives students the instruction they need to master this software without wasting precious animation time.

Instead of struggling with Maya and learning by trial and error, our mentor-led workshop gives students the instruction they need to master this software without wasting precious animation time.

These students are thoroughly prepared in how to use the software so they can focus fully on what’s really important when taking our core animation courses: learning how to become a great animator.

Not only will you gain access to walk-throughs, demonstrations, and exercises, but you’ll also have the opportunity to interact with our instructors — all of whom are respected, working professionals in the industry — during live Q&A sessions that take place each week. With our support, you’ll be able to learn how to use this essential software at your own speed and gain confidence in your growing skillset.

Check out this awesome squirrel house by Maya student Dani Shahfeh

Although Maya 3D is only one component of working as a professional animator, learning how to use this program is an essential step in your career development. And while our workshop takes place online, students benefit from being part of a tight-knit and supportive community.

No matter what your ultimate goal is in the animation industry, you won’t get far without learning how to use Maya. Whether you’re interested in feature film animation or you’re eager to get into gaming, our mentors can help you master Maya basics and ensure you’re on the right path.

Start your animation journey today by learning from animators at studios like Pixar, Blue Sky, and ILM! Get more information about Animation Mentor’s Character Animation Program.