This year in animation we focused on 3D modeling and 3D animation. We learned modeling in the software Maya and Zbrush, we used Mixamo or Rokoko to get motion capture data. We also learned to animate with rigging and key-framing in Maya, and how to lip sync with 3D models. For texturing our models, we learned how to use Substance Painter.
Weapon Modeling
For our weapon modeling assignment, I decided to model a katana. I started by modeling out the basic shapes in Maya and then added details in ZBrush. I painted on the metallic and handle colors in Substance Painter.
Environment Modeling
We did some basic environment modeling in Maya where we used temple models we made in a previous assignment and made an environment for it.
Walk Run Jump!
Here are the first 3D animations we did where we learned to rig our models and keyframe movement. We had to do three animation practices, a walk cycle, a run cycle, and a jump cycle.
Action Reaction
Our action reaction animation was required to have at least three scenes that consecutively told a story.
This is my motion capture animation practice, it has three scenes and are made with motion capture animation.
This is my lip sync practice, I made my model lip sync to the song Plastic Love by Maria Takeuchi. We used modeling and blend shapes to make our lip syncs and facial expressions. I also added dance animation from Rokoko.
Overall, this unit in animation has taught me a lot. I went from not knowing how to 3D model to making models for short stories and animations. I think the repeating the process of all the steps of modeling (drawing, modeling, rigging, texturing, animating), has made me more familiar with the pipeline that creates animation models. I think I am now confident that I can keep making 3D models in the future.