C4D Model Making - a place to start

This session focused on working with sub-object modelling, opposed to parametric objects e.g. Cubes, polygons and pre-made assets in C4D. The end goal for the end of this session was a 3D developed character with individual limbs that would be able to be 3D printed.

The way that 3D printing works, every step it prints it moves down and it builds itself through layers. If you print multiple objects placed together in 3D it will not be able to tell the difference between each object. You have to alter one shape using its sub-parts to create a fluid 3D object.

"If you poured water in it, would it leak? If so, it isn't a good 3D model."

We explored in more depth extra tools and abilities that can be used within C4D and developed a simple polygon character. The most used tools for this kind of creation include Extrude: used to extend a polygon into a new section and Inner extrusion: this creates smaller subsections to build from within a section. Most other tools are ones I had used previously on other projects.

 

  

Once I had built my polygon character, I put it into a subdivided surface as a way to round off any of the edges to make it a lot smoother and consistent. After tweaking the shape, in and out of the subdivided view I got to use group surfaces to colour my creature.

Using group surfaces makes larger more complex objects easier to colour and alter, so if I am unsure on a visual look, this method would be a smarter way of working as it easily lets me colour selected areas quickly.

  

3D Model Cell Shaded Test from Sophie Wales on Vimeo.

here is another I attempted at a later date:

with this model I added a twist and bend modifier to give the implication of movement.

alien from Sophie Wales on Vimeo.

The method of colouring I used is called Cell Shading, it uses solid colours for shading an enviroment, creating harsh strong shade lines, popular with more cartoonish aesthetic. This style is particularly popular with video games as a easier and more stylistic method of give 3D depth. Popular examples of media that uses cel shading include Video game; Legend of Zelda Wind Waker,  Video Game; Jet Set Radio and Video Game; Catherine.

 http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/101511920130809_175759_1_big.jpg

 http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110529020944/catherinethegame/images/thumb/c/ce/EricaCap3.png/830px-EricaCap3.png

http://pixelperfectgaming.com/wp-content/gallery/jet_set_radio_hd_screenshots/jet_set_radio_screenshot_01.jpg

This task helped me a lot in my personal projects I have been working on independently. The extra practice to master these basic modelling skill and adapt my knowledge from this session and tutorials online is really beneficial. I plan to work on more 3D modelling projects after being inspired by the Motion North event I visited recently.

coffee shop model 360 from Sophie Wales on Vimeo.