Sketchbook: MegSteve
I've had an account on the forum for a few months now, but I've rarely been on. I hope getting a sketchbook up will fix that. I'll appreciate critique wherever I can get it.
Entry 1: I've mucked with Zbrush detailing base models from Max and Maya previously, but this is my first time working with dynamesh and Zbrush's retopology tools. The subject is a fantastic species of dinosaur inspired by a mash-up of a raptor with an Andean condor for plumage and coloration. My goal is to have a game-ready mesh textured (at bare minimum) to submit to the Stan Winston School's current art contest.
I started with a very basic sketch in Photoshop.
I used that sketch as a guideline while sculpting the dynamesh, with a few changes. After checking references, I decided to push the structure of the face wattles a bit further than in the original sketch.
And here's the current progress on the Zsphere retopology. I'm using Zspheres to study the technique for experience and because the university's computers lack any additional retopology plugins or software (being an alumni has a few perks, but not all).
I think that my biggest difficulties going forward will be the wings. I wanted to stick to a more scientifically accurate position for the wrists (the palms always face inwards like a bird's wings instead of downwards like a JP-style pseudoraptor). However, I'm unsure of how best to lay out the edge loops to keep the movement accurate. I've already got a few low-poly feather planes in Max, so when I get the naked body done I'll build up the rest of the wing there.
Entry 1: I've mucked with Zbrush detailing base models from Max and Maya previously, but this is my first time working with dynamesh and Zbrush's retopology tools. The subject is a fantastic species of dinosaur inspired by a mash-up of a raptor with an Andean condor for plumage and coloration. My goal is to have a game-ready mesh textured (at bare minimum) to submit to the Stan Winston School's current art contest.
I started with a very basic sketch in Photoshop.
I used that sketch as a guideline while sculpting the dynamesh, with a few changes. After checking references, I decided to push the structure of the face wattles a bit further than in the original sketch.
And here's the current progress on the Zsphere retopology. I'm using Zspheres to study the technique for experience and because the university's computers lack any additional retopology plugins or software (being an alumni has a few perks, but not all).
I think that my biggest difficulties going forward will be the wings. I wanted to stick to a more scientifically accurate position for the wrists (the palms always face inwards like a bird's wings instead of downwards like a JP-style pseudoraptor). However, I'm unsure of how best to lay out the edge loops to keep the movement accurate. I've already got a few low-poly feather planes in Max, so when I get the naked body done I'll build up the rest of the wing there.
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Did a round of Fantasy Genesis exercises today to get back into thinking shape. Ended up with the following (tried to spend no more than 10-15 minutes on each):
1) A space bee (proud member of the National Apiological and Space Administration).
2) A wet cement cobra
3) A fern bike.
4) Cubius Maximus
Pair of creature studies from earlier today.