Paint-over Techniques in Photoshop

Unwrapping an Organic T-Rex Model in Maya

Organic T-Rex Modelling in Maya

In this lesson we were tasked with modeling a T-Rex using a sketch provided to us as reference. We had to make sure that all the faces on the model were quads and not triangles. I assume the reason for this is to make sure that when Mudbox or ZBrush subdivides the model, you do not end up with a large number of edges all converging on one vertex.

We had to use the edge loops to create a topology that 'describes' the surface of a T-Rex.

Since we didn't have any reference for the front view of the model, I looked up some extra T-Rex images to use as reference. On the left, you can see my original T-Rex head that I had created without any reference. On the right, I used a still from Jurassic Park as reference for the front view of the T-Rex.

My final T-Rex model.

My final T-Rex model wireframe.

Steampunk Work in Progress

For this assignment, we were tasked with designing a steampunk character or object.

Hand WIP.

VAA Character Modelling Assignment

For this assignment, we were tasked with modelling a character based on images that were handed to us as reference.

This was my first attempt. However, this model had incorrect topology. The edge loops around the groin would not deform properly if the model was animated. I then started again and tried to create correct topology.

Lava Monster

In this lesson we were shown how to use Photoshops layer FX in order to create certain effects that would be difficult to achieve manually. Here we used an image provided to us of a clay model as a base layer for our painting. We used various 'glow' effects in order to create a self-illuminating lava effect, and combined them with the base image to create a lava monster.

This is the lava monster I created in class. I used an image of the planet Mustafar from Revenge of the Sith as a background.

For our homework assignment, we were tasked with creating our own lava monster.

Mood Board of other lava monster designs I found online.

Since I wanted to create a large lava monster, I focused primarily on using atmospheric effects to try and create a sense of scale.

This was my first attempt. Here I experimented with using gradually weaker values as the environment gets further and further away. However, since I didn't like the camera angle nor the design of the monster itself, I decided to start a new piece.

This was my initial sketch for my main piece. I used a lower camera angle looking more upwards in order to create a more effective sense of scale.

I then started blocking out the values of the character, again trying to create atmospheric effects to weaken the values as they get further from the camera.

Finally I added the lava effect we were shown in class to paint cracks on the character. I tried to use a symmetrical lava pattern so that it is more easily identifiable as a character with a head, torso and two arms and legs.

If I were to complete this piece again, I would rearrange the pose so that the leg on the right doesn't appear to morph into the torso at the knee. I should also start to use various images as textures in order to create detail, as my final piece looks very basic.

Muscle Drawing