Takahito Tejima studied Engineering at Kyoto University and graduated in 1996. After graduation, he joined NAMCO as a computer graphics (CG) development engineer. In 1999, he moved to Polyphony Digital as a CG programmer where he is the lead developer in the team that creates the world famous Gran Turismo series of games.

Q. How did you get involved in the 3D computer graphics industry?
A. I became a member of the development team working on the computer graphics (CG) animation system "DoGA" when I was in university, in 1992. This was my first exposure to CG technology.

Q. How do you use Maya?
A. Currently, our team uses Maya software for modeling cars and land shapes. My main responsibilities are developing the production workflow by customizing Maya using MEL and the API.

Q. What projects have you worked on?
A. Since 1999, I've been heavily involved in the Gran Turismo games series.

Q. What makes this industry so exciting to you?
A. There is always rapid development in the tools and methods that makes the work of developers and artists in 3D computer graphics not only exciting, but also easier!

Q. Where do you see the industry going in the next 5 years?
A. I'm interested in seeing how the industry will continue to develop the abstraction and presentation of geometry and materials.

Q. What words of wisdom do you have for anyone interested in entering the world of 3D computer graphics?
A. Don't be discouraged by the apparent difficulties of mastering high-end technology. You can reach your goal with a step-by-step approach, just like unveiling the solution to a puzzle. That's the most important point: when mastering 3D computer graphics, you should always look for different ways to answer the questions that arise and solve the problems that you encounter.