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April 2008 MMC - Create a Character
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These pages are a copy of the official truespace forums prior to their removal somewhere around 2011.
They are retained here for archive purposes only.
April 2008 MMC - Create a Character // Monthly Modeling Contest
Post by Nez // Apr 1, 2008, 2:27am
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Nez
Total Posts: 1102
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OK, so here’s the next challenge – Create a Character
It’s a bit less theme-led this time, so less artistic interpretation of the theme, but plenty of scope of artistic imagination in the subject!
As I‘ve found the SMCs and MMCs have really encouraged me to try modelling stuff I’ve little or no experience of before, they’ve really helped to push me (and others) to develop skills and techniques we’ve not tried before. There’s at least a few of us participating in these challenges who I feel are in a similar position in terms of trying to make a big step up in our all-round abilities to model, light and texture our work so I thought it might be cool to give us another push to try something else we may not have had a go at before – character creation.
Speaking of myself at least, I’ve never tried a character more sophisticated than a snowman (unless you perhaps count the post box thingie I started) and am sure I’m not alone in being somewhat daunted. However, I’m not suggesting that we should all aim for photorealistic, clothed figures (though you’re welcome to try!). Likewise rigged, poseable figures isn’t necessarily the aim. Indeed, I would very much encourage people to consider ‘cartoon’ or caricatures this time round (Jamesmc – hope you’re listening!) I think it would be great if we could see a really wide range of visual styles from quite abstract to quite detailed (see also links below) – this could then be a really good learning resource for aspiring modellers.
I thought about suggesting that we all do self-portraits (as impressionistic as you like) as a possible tightening of the theme but didn’t necessarily want to be that restrictive. That might be quite a cool option, but I’d like it to stay open so characters could be human, alien, fantasy, robots, whatever really appeals.
So that’s the overview – I hope some of you will take up the gauntlet and give it a shot. I realise it might seem quite scary – so to help, I’ve provided some links to a few threads that might be good inspiration/reference. There are already a lot of talented character creators on the forum – it would be great if some of the people referenced below would join in and produce someone new for this challenge. Obviously, we would possibly be looking for a little more from you guys than the novices given the experienced starting point… but voting ought to be based on progress/achievement as well as the final result. Hopefully the veterans will continue to offer the usual level of help and support to the novices.
Also, in light of this and something I’ve viewed as a bit of a shortcoming in the previous contest, I’d suggest a minor rule change – final submission not to be restricted to a single image. Obviously the full WIP should be considered when voting, but I think a couple of images (say max 5 as that that’s the max for one post) could be used for the final submission, to show extra detail not visible in the rather restrictive 800x600 limit, or extra poses etc. That way, if you produce a lot of content, you get the chance to show it to best effect.
So hope that’s all OK; standard rules etc at the bottom for reference. Suggested closing date for submissions (unless any feedback to the contrary) extended to 30th May
Steinie – perhaps you could model yourself as a date for Lotta? Perhaps Splinters could create a version of himself in the style of his Little Cloud renders… perhaps you might want to model someone in a style like Frank’s great figures? I hope you all have some fun.
Reference/inspiration (don’t forget to check out their websites too if they have one):
Splinters’ Little Cloud (not to mention his many other creations – see also his website)
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=3153
MadMouse’s latest (see also some of his previous work, e.g. the Samuel Jackson head):
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=5218 (http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=5218)
3dfrog’s frog:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=4881
and his Cartoon Hero:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=4312
and another figure:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=3396
Steinie’s Lotta:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=5074
and his many other creations – see especially a bunch of his characters in the ’Cartoon Corner’ thread:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=3337
WWotW’s Doug (plus her other ‘Kate Clay’ characters:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=5124
W!zard’s witches and wizards, e.g.:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=4340
One of Frank’s great little characters (more in the Dribble Tests thread):
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=4743
Stickman’s Little Green Man:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=3356
A few useful tips in this thread too:
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=4229
And an awesome example that I linked too in the above – ChrisJ’s awesome Charlize model…
http://forums1.caligari.com/truespace/showthread.php?t=1129
(anyone I've missed - no offence intended - these were just ones I remebered and was able to find easily!)
Here's the standard rules (tweaked from Jack's original Challenge) :
The idea is to have a challenge that is geared more towards the complete 3D development cycle from concept through modeling, surfacing, lighting, rendering, and post process. This is a chance for TSer's to really show their stuff and help motivate the production of portfolio quality images.
1.) Submission expresses the topic. If topic is an object, then it must include at least one instance of the object which should be the focus of the image.
2.) Use your own work. No pre-made purchased or free models, please [NB this means no Poser/Makehuman submission thankyou! You can use them as references to help you build your own model or as background scenery, but they shouldn't be part of your main model]
3.) Start a Work In Progress thread for your submission.
4.) Submission should be up to max 5 images inone post and a link to your WIP thread.
5.) Indicate tools used to create your submission. TS should be the primary application used to create the image. Post Processing in a paint program is ok.
It's important that everyone who's planning to enter start a WIP thread. With difficult challenges like this many entries are over ambitious and don't make it to completion so in many cases it may be likely that judging will have to take place on the WIPs.
Deadline extended to 30th May.... |
Post by Steinie // Apr 1, 2008, 8:04am
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Steinie
Total Posts: 3667
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I like this one a lot!
There is a scene I haven't done yet with Lotta Titled "Tunnel of Love" The new character could be designed and textured for this contest. So this is perfect timing.
I hope we get others interested too. |
Post by rjeff // Apr 1, 2008, 8:57am
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rjeff
Total Posts: 1260
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sounds fun..but I have other projects I need to work on..so I am gonna sit this one out, and just enjoy. |
Post by jamesmc // Apr 1, 2008, 9:08am
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jamesmc
Total Posts: 2566
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If the modeling tools were better in tS, I might try it. However, compared to some other apps I have that are for organic modeling, I find the experience painful and tedious.
So, I'm sitting this one out too. |
Post by Changa // Apr 1, 2008, 11:04am
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Changa
Total Posts: 187
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Nez, can my recent SMC Hippo Kid be considered? I had no time to start WIP.:) |
Post by Jack Edwards // Apr 1, 2008, 12:45pm
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Jack Edwards
Total Posts: 4062
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Nice one, Nez! I think you should make this a two (or three) month challenge though...
Also looks like Madmouse has a head start on us guys. :p :D
Go Mouse!
I have a character designs that I came up with for both the journey and airship challenges but never got a chance to start on, either one would be great for this challenge. I need to get going on a personal project anyway, it's been too long since I produced any art for the forums. ;) |
Post by JimB // Apr 1, 2008, 9:15pm
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JimB
Total Posts: 341
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The link to my basic boxman guide that Tom gave in a linked post appears to be broken so heres another.
http://forums.caligari.com/gamespace/showthread.php?t=3223
Feel free to use the boxman included in any way you want.
Jim |
Post by Nez // Apr 1, 2008, 10:26pm
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Nez
Total Posts: 1102
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Jim - thanks for providing an updated link.
Nice one, Nez! I think you should make this a two (or three) month challenge though...
Also looks like Madmouse has a head start on us guys. :p :D
Go Mouse!
I have a character designs that I came up with for both the journey and airship challenges but never got a chance to start on, either one would be great for this challenge. I need to get going on a personal project anyway, it's been too long since I produced any art for the forums. ;)
Jack - we might look at allowing a bit longer if that's what everyone wants; I wasn't intending for everyone to make very complex creations, simple is good (see Franks new WIP for example, just great!) Look forward to seeing what you can come up with too.
It would be great if Madmouse wanted to enter (although it sets a high bar for everyone) but there may need to be some discussion as to whether evryone considers his use of Silo for the modelling a problem - although tS is the renderer, the majority of the modelling isn't done in tS.
Personally, I wouldn't have a problem if alternate modelling software was used for the model creation, providing you still provide a WIP and render in tS (as MM tends to). Or if you modelled in tS and rendered somewhere else - just so long as tS plays a SIGNIFICANT part of the overall process. If everyone else agrees to that, that would be great and open it up for a few more people hopefully.
If the modeling tools were better in tS, I might try it. However, compared to some other apps I have that are for organic modeling, I find the experience painful and tedious.
So, I'm sitting this one out too.
James - sorry to hear that as I though this challenge would somewhat suit your abilities and creativity. As noted above, if people don't object, I'd be happy to see some flexibility in application use as long as tS was a key part of the process (e.g. rendering). Also, there's no requirement for characters to be organic - robots etc would also be viable. So I hope you might reconsider.
Nez, can my recent SMC Hippo Kid be considered?
I don't see why not, so long as you make a WIP 'retrospectively' (with lots of detail;)). Given the time available, it would be appropriate to try to develop it further too - looks really good by the way.
I am gonna sit this one out, and just enjoy.
That's a shame - I thought you would be one of the main people who'd enjoy pushing themselves with this - maybe if the deadline gets extended a litlle you might be able to join in?
So this is perfect timing.
Excellent - thought you'd probably be up for this and looking forward to what you might come up with.
NB - in case I suddenly seem to drop off the radar, it's because I go on holiday next week so will be without internet access for a while! |
Post by rjeff // Apr 2, 2008, 3:08am
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rjeff
Total Posts: 1260
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Well Nez it is not because I don't want to..I am actually additcted to the MMC and SMC, but I promised a friend I would get back to their project as I have put it off for far to long. I might join you in the next one. I look foward to seeing this all play out. |
Post by Steinie // Apr 9, 2008, 2:30am
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Steinie
Total Posts: 3667
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I see a lot of Character development lately but their not entering this Challenge. Frank and Emmamuel why not send your characters here also and support Nez's Challenge?
MadMouse I feel the same about yours but it depends how much you plan to use TS to develop your Character. I would love to see you enter too!
I have a Character developed in my head for this Challenge but just haven't started yet.
Anyone else? |
Post by Jack Edwards // Apr 9, 2008, 2:56am
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Jack Edwards
Total Posts: 4062
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I'm definitely planning to get in on this one. Of course, I've said that before and ended up not having the time. :p
Likely I can start on it some next Monday. |
Post by Emmanuel // Apr 9, 2008, 6:11am
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Emmanuel
Total Posts: 439
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I see a lot of Character development lately but their not entering this Challenge. Frank and Emmamuel why not send your characters here also and support Nez's Challenge?
MadMouse I feel the same about yours but it depends how much you plan to use TS to develop your Character. I would love to see you enter too!
I have a Character developed in my head for this Challenge but just haven't started yet.
Anyone else?
My problem with MMC rules is the following :
Once I started a design, I can't exit trueSpace until it is all done :p
So, moving to Firefox & tS forums, creating a WIP thread and feeding it with screenshots all along the creation process may break my workflow... and inspiration ! |
Post by Jack Edwards // Apr 9, 2008, 6:29am
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Jack Edwards
Total Posts: 4062
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I think an acceptable alternative would be to post a how you did it kind of thing in a WIP thread. ;) |
Post by Norm // Apr 9, 2008, 7:22am
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Norm
Total Posts: 862
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you could approx reverse-engineer afterwards too :) is not hard to save an object to a special created library as you move along. Could do a few quick screen grabs of them after the inspirational time-frame :banana: |
Post by ed_baker // Apr 15, 2008, 7:27am
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ed_baker
Total Posts: 355
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When is the deadline for this one? The end of April?
I didn't really see a date, So I presume that's it?
Ed |
Post by Jack Edwards // Apr 15, 2008, 7:35am
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Jack Edwards
Total Posts: 4062
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I think end of april is too short. Do we even have any entries yet? |
Post by jayr // Apr 15, 2008, 7:59am
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jayr
Total Posts: 1074
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I think the deadline is 16th of may, a bit of time yet. |
Post by Nez // Apr 16, 2008, 10:11pm
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Nez
Total Posts: 1102
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Suggested closing date for submissions (unless any feedback to the contrary) Friday 16th May, 6pm GMT (have allowed a few extra weeks given the challenging subject!). Voting dates to be confirmed when it's clear whether we're going to stick to the original deadline or not...
...
Extenxions to deadline to be agreed by all participants.
Weird, quoting myself...! Jayr - thanks for getting things started, hope we have a few competitors for you! I deliberately allowed beyond the end of April originally, but unless things pick up, an extension seems quite possible...
NB - Emmanuel: Jack and Norm's suggestions would be fine - a 'retrospective WIP' would be fine. For me, and some others at least, a single long session in tS just isn't possible so I have to work in isolated slots of time, so interruption is just something I have to live with! Of course, the other advantage with posting progress as you go is that others can help by offfering C&C... |
Post by nowherebrain // Apr 27, 2008, 5:32pm
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nowherebrain
Total Posts: 1062
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Hope I am not off target here, but NB is not relating to me is it??? I would never use pre made "Art"...I apologize to those who think I am looking down, I am not...I just take great pride in the fact that my modeling is my own. If this is not targeted at me....and it probably isn't...so no biggie...lol |
Post by Jack Edwards // Apr 27, 2008, 7:36pm
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Jack Edwards
Total Posts: 4062
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LOL Nowherebrain, NB = nota bene (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nota_bene) -> Latin for "Note well" |
Post by Nez // Apr 27, 2008, 9:56pm
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Nez
Total Posts: 1102
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That made me chuckle! As Jack correctly notes, the 'NB' was just a 'and please take note of the following:'...
The comment about premade models etc wasn't targeted at anyone (certainly not you nowherebrain) - it was more that just with this theme it might be tempting to use Poser/Makehuman figures... Given the lack of entries, maybe I should allow this after all! :o
Even though my own entry wouldn't be eligible, I too have had a real struggle finding any time to work on this so far.... we'll see what comes out this week and then talk about extensions methinks... |
Post by Jack Edwards // Apr 27, 2008, 10:11pm
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Jack Edwards
Total Posts: 4062
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I think we shouldn't give up on this topic. You guys hesitating, may want to come up with a simpler character design and there's nothing in the challenge that says it has to be humanoid. ;)
BTW Nez, I'll be finishing up a big project this Wednesday and will have some (relatively) free time for a few weeks after that, so you'll definitely see me throw in my hat in this challenge. Also I've never been against people entering their own challenges. The whole point is may the best man (or woman) win!
Let's please avoid use of Poser and MakeHuman models though especially with almost 2 months and a it being a modeling challenge... :( ... but an extension might not be a bad idea since everyone was busy this month. |
Post by Nez // Apr 27, 2008, 11:10pm
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Nez
Total Posts: 1102
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Jack
Glad to hear you're still planning an entry - was beginning to feel a bit demoralised.
I'd also like to thank you and Steinie in particular for dropping plenty of hints/nudges in other posts to suggest they enter the fray - I should be paying you guys advertising rates...;)
I have to admit I've struggled a bit with which direction I want to go in but I've had so little time I've not started yet myself, so I've still got time for inspiration to strike.
As you pointed out - I never said the character had to be humanoid - aliens, robots, furry critters and more would all be eligible!
(and I agree with the poser/makehuman thing, was just getting desperate!)
I think an extension will be on the cards anyway, probably to end of May... |
Post by nowherebrain // Apr 28, 2008, 12:01am
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nowherebrain
Total Posts: 1062
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I am a dork |
Post by Jack Edwards // Apr 28, 2008, 12:06am
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Jack Edwards
Total Posts: 4062
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LOL, now where's your entry Nowherebrain? Especially since we all you know you can character speed model... :p :D
http://www.scatteredpixel.com/files/Page1.html |
Post by nowherebrain // Apr 28, 2008, 1:53pm
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nowherebrain
Total Posts: 1062
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I can do better, but that was meant for instruction...lol |
Post by Jack Edwards // Apr 28, 2008, 1:55pm
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Jack Edwards
Total Posts: 4062
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Hey I thought it was pretty good. Better would be bonus! :D |
Post by Dragneye // May 4, 2008, 5:31pm
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Dragneye
Total Posts: 602
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Ok folks, I'm in. With only a week or so to go, I may be deluding myself that I can finish in time as I only have a few days to finish a contest entry elsewhere, but heck, I too am addicted to these challenges. :-) I just hate though that I have not finished so many of my last WIPS, but ... let's go. I'm in.
OOOoookkk... I had started work on this already (just found my thread. Dang it's been so long since I've posted here in these here forums, that I didn't remember). Sooo... can I continue this as an entry, or do I have to start from the beginning? I think I can show how I got to this point already, but need to play fair. From the moment I read this thread, I thought of that dragon as my character entry, since it is supposed to represent me in the animation I was putting together. So, what's the verdict?
Either answer is cool, I can come up with some other character, but thought the 'push' this challenge offers to work on this dragon, well, 'I could kill a few birds with one stone' if you will. |
Post by jamesmc // May 4, 2008, 5:35pm
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jamesmc
Total Posts: 2566
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The pros are too afraid that we non-artists might learn something I suppose.
Either that or a mesh will suddenly appear out of the blue from another program and call it done. (-100 blog points for nasty remarks)
Hey! Vista made me do it! (growls at everyone) grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr |
Post by Nez // May 5, 2008, 10:37pm
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Nez
Total Posts: 1102
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Dragneye- Sorry I couldn't get back to you before - it's been a bank holiday weekend here inthe UK, so I've been offline for a few days.
I saw from the WIP section that you have started an entry now anyway, so I hope that's all fine - if it was an unfinished project from before I wouldn't have had any problems with you getting on and finishing it but looks like you're sorted now anyway... glad to see you've gone for an interesting take - a dragon would be very cool. Hoping to do an alien myself, assuming I ever find some time.
Speaking of which, it's pretty certain that we'll be throwing in an extension to the dealine anyway, so you'll have a bit longer anway - suggest the 30th of May, unless anyone has any objections?
Jamesmc - not sure what you mean; I'm no pro and am here to learn as much as possible from anyone possible - I try to be a sponge.... (albeit one that's crusted up with dried old paint).
To me the 'ideal' of the MMC is to demonstrate a bit better that the model is genuine and the product of some real work in a way that the SMC challenges don't - I want to see a WIP with posts to show how someone got to where they end up (mostly so I can improve my own techniques of course! otherwise I'm never going to win the monthly gallery!). |
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