Grand Space Opera Challenge FAQ / Questions / Answers

[SibSpi]

Is it ok if I keep submitting images using 'concept sketch' even when they are merely progress shots? I keep discovering new tricks, since I'm still learning about my app, but I want to share with others what it looks like and how it works. However, there isn't an option for 'progress picture' or an attachment feature for my WIP thread. If we are allowed to, could the ops or mods please add a few dedicated commands for images to the submissions page? Like 'demonstration picture' and 'progress shot/render'?Thnks

[cutcopypaste]

Perhaps this has been asked, I didn't see it on the first page, and by the time I got to the 10th page I was really worn out from reading the questions which had already been answered on page one...

Parametric geometry is not allowed.. IE Poser, dreamscape seas and terrains etc

What about plug-ins or scripts. Particularly, Afterburn or shag hair (hairfx) maya paintfx, maya hair or fur or water. Scripts such as tree-maker for both maya or max. Or any tree generated geometry and or planar mapped foilage systems.

It appears you are trying to primarily keep away from automatic generators of geometry, and these items don't really fit that category (or maybe they do ?).

Again, sorry if this has been asked already.

**edit.. Off topic but, why can't I log off this site or find where to turn off automatic login in my user CP... (I'm sure there's a better place to ask this... just guide me there please**

[Shade01]

Although I am really, really far from finishing my challenge entry, I wanted to ask a question.

Is it acceptable to use compositing with the 3D challenge? Or does it all have to be rendered at one time? The reason I ask is it will be easier for me if I can seperate the different planes, ie foreground, middleground, and backgrounds. Plus it will be easier to control the lighting, as I plan to use different lighting for each plane.

If we can't, I'll have to work around it.

Thanks,

Chad
Compositing is fine.

[percydaman]

I dont think that tree and foliage creators are allowed. Dont think that afterburn, shag, or cloth plugins are a problem.

[Eclisod]

Maybe I didn't notice this rule earlier on somewhere, but if I have a previous model that I've used in other of my works, of my creation, could I use it in this one? Thanks

E~

[Kirt]

Q: I am currently working on another space opera-theme project (commercial/non-commercial/whatever). Can I make my image for this contest based on the other project?
A: Be original and imaginative please. Create a unique image.Same rule applies to any previously created models, designs, etc. Start from scratch.

[Eclisod]

*groans*

k

[LunarTick]

Same rule applies to any previously created models, designs, etc. Start from scratch.
I have something i would like to say on this then i have a question i would like to put to you as well.

Let me see if i get this right.
If i have models of buildings which i haven't used in an image before i can't use them at all.
To me that is a little unfair to those that have models they haven't used yet but are waiting to have an idea of what to use it in.

Question: How do you know if someone hasn't used the model before, that they are starting from scratch.
Wouldn't you say they could have used it in another image on another site, there are plenty of 3d graphic sites on the internet, i'm a member of 7 so far.
Do you have people checking all the sites to make sure no one is using a model they have already used in an image somewhere else?
Also, how do you know it is their model, one they made from scratch for this challenge and not someone elses they got for the challenge,EG: downloaded from a site with free models on.

[SigFire]

I am trying to decide if I should go 2D or 3D.

Can I use (I will be editing them extensivly) 3D elements that I will create from scratch in a 2D drawing.

Im not planning on having the 3D elements as being a large section of the image I basically want to use them to improve the image rather than be the image.

Obviously if the image was more 3D than 2D it would be a problem.



Whats the consencus?

[SigFire]

Stock plate means an unchanged picture from online, picture collections and libraries, etc
Yes, you can use 3d as a base for your picture but if you paint over most of it, you will have to enter it under the 2d challenge category.

Wiro
Ok sorry I had gotten tired trying to go through every post and sods law. I post and then I see this! Answers my question so you dont need to repeat.

Thanks

[RobertJ]

*groans*

k
We are walking on eggs, so lets be carefull.

And to quote from a great space opera "Sir! The possibility of successfully navigating this challenge is approximately 3720 to 1!", "Never tell me the odds."

[Lizzard]

To change the direction of the thread, I'm having problems using the entry page. It tells me some database error has happened every time I try enter. Do I just start a thread of my own by myself, or wait until the problem is fixed?


(I searched for an answer, but didn't find anything. And the system I'm on right now is sloooow)

[Kirt]

I'm having problems using the entry page ...
(I searched for an answer, but didn't find anything. And the system I'm on right now is sloooow)posted in the FAQ (first post of this thread) ...

Technical Support
For all registration errors, or technical errors while using the Challenge site, please PM Robert Mibus, our technical officer - username: mibus.

If i have models of buildings which i haven't used in an image before i can't use them at all.
To me that is a little unfair to those that have models they haven't used yet but are waiting to have an idea of what to use it in.And it wouldn't seem unfair to you if everyone else is starting their concepts and models from scratch, but you can use an existing piece in your entry? It's a challenge ... start from scratch. You're always free to use your pre-existing models in a similar image after the challenge has ended. But for this contest, they are strictly "not allowed".Question: How do you know if someone hasn't used the model before, that they are starting from scratch.It's a WIP challenge. Meaning that members are required to show the steps they took in building the image from scratch. Anyone who posts a suddenly complete model is likely to arrouse suspicion from the others who are entering the challenge.Wouldn't you say they could have used it in another image on another site, there are plenty of 3d graphic sites on the internet, i'm a member of 7 so far.
Do you have people checking all the sites to make sure no one is using a model they have already used in an image somewhere else?
Also, how do you know it is their model, one they made from scratch for this challenge and not someone elses they got for the challenge,EG: downloaded from a site with free models on.Yes, we do have people checking other sites and personal webspaces for pre-existing models. They are the members of this forum and anonomous lurkers. The CG field is a uniquely close and watchful family. If anyone is cheating on the rules, chances are that they will be found out before the deadline ends. It's not that we as Mods or Admins have to scour the internet looking for familiar work ... the members (and fellow challengers) will do that for us to keep everyone on the up and up. Face it ... there are some nice prizes up for grabs. Everyone is going to be protecting their own interests and probablilities of winning the prizes.

If you're thinking about using something old ... just don't. You'll get more out of the challenge by starting fresh. I've been in a number of the challenges (and personally), these are one of the best ways to learn new things and recieve helpful suggestions from the CG community. Take an easy route to the challenge and you'll quickly build a reputation on this site (and quite possibly in the industry) as a hack.

And ... I'm not adressing that to you personally, LunarTick. That's for everyone to know.

[dreamer3dchic]

Is it ok to enter a matte painting for the 2d section of the contest, utilizing my own photo-references...

and... are we allowed to combine 3d elements in our 2d illustrations, (or does this cross over too much?)

[LunarTick]

posted in the FAQ (first post of this thread) ...

Technical Support
For all registration errors, or technical errors while using the Challenge site, please PM Robert Mibus, our technical officer - username: mibus.

And it wouldn't seem unfair to you if everyone else is starting their concepts and models from scratch, but you can use an existing piece in your entry? It's a challenge ... start from scratch. You're always free to use your pre-existing models in a similar image after the challenge has ended. But for this contest, they are strictly "not allowed".It's a WIP challenge. Meaning that members are required to show the steps they took in building the image from scratch. Anyone who posts a suddenly complete model is likely to arrouse suspicion from the others who are entering the challenge.Yes, we do have people checking other sites and personal webspaces for pre-existing models. They are the members of this forum and anonomous lurkers. The CG field is a uniquely close and watchful family. If anyone is cheating on the rules, chances are that they will be found out before the deadline ends. It's not that we as Mods or Admins have to scour the internet looking for familiar work ... the members (and fellow challengers) will do that for us to keep everyone on the up and up. Face it ... there are some nice prizes up for grabs. Everyone is going to be protecting their own interests and probablilities of winning the prizes.

If you're thinking about using something old ... just don't. You'll get more out of the challenge by starting fresh. I've been in a number of the challenges (and personally), these are one of the best ways to learn new things and recieve helpful suggestions from the CG community. Take an easy route to the challenge and you'll quickly build a reputation on this site (and quite possibly in the industry) as a hack.

And ... I'm not adressing that to you personally, LunarTick. That's for everyone to know.
Well i'll just say, good luck to those that can use a 3d modelling program to make models with, a program like paintshop or photoshop or anyother program you can use for to make your image up for this challenge.

Unlike most of you people on this site i am knew to the world of 3d imaging, i am unable to use a 3d modelling program or programs like paintshop, photoshop or most programs you could mention.

So in my honest opinion, this is a challenge not for those that would like to enter it but for those who can do 3d modelling or use programs to help them with their images.

This challenge and the ones holding it are discriminating against those that would like to enter it but because of the "start from scratch" rule they can't

Are all the challenges on this site like that, if so let me know and i'll not bother coming back here again.

[RobertJ]

Well i'll just say, good luck to those that can use a 3d modelling program to make models with, a program like paintshop or photoshop or anyother program you can use for to make your image up for this challenge.

Unlike most of you people on this site i am knew to the world of 3d imaging, i am unable to use a 3d modelling program or programs like paintshop, photoshop or most programs you could mention.

So in my honest opinion, this is a challenge not for those that would like to enter it but for those who can do 3d modelling or use programs to help them with their images.

This challenge and the ones holding it are discriminating against those that would like to enter it but because of the "start from scratch" rule they can't

Are all the challenges on this site like that, if so let me know and i'll not bother coming back here again.
I don't want to be rude, but in challenges and competions of this level knowledge is vital, if you enter while your experiences with digital art is non-existant than you are in for a very rough ride.

Starting from scratch applies to all of us, it's no fair game if you have a harddisk full of your own models (and some have quite a lot of models) or even worse bought or downloaded it from others, make a scene out of those and submit your final images on the 17th of january next year.

I maybe using the wrong kind of software (don't open that can of worms here in this thread) and some suggest that it gives an unfair advantage, but the idea behind this challenge is solid, show progress and interact with others, grow, watch and learn.

If you find that hard, than this challenge is not something you should participate in.

[simoncvy]

I understand the resolution requirements... but I am wondering if I should recompose my wide panoramic 5600x3000 image to better fit the 4:3 aspect ratio of a page of print?

Are the images actually going to be used for print or is this just to make the challenge more realistic?

[MasterZap]

Question, and I am quite serious:

Do we have to use computers?
What if I do an oil painting, acrylic, watercolour....?

/Z

[ArtisticVisions]

Kirt: I understand the importance of not using pre-created models (even ones you had create before the Challenge), but about models that you just started working on as the Challenge was announced?

Reason I'm asking is because the human model I'm using for my entry was less than 20-25% done when I entered the Challenge; it's now 90% done. Can I still use it or should I go back and remodel the areas where I had done when the Challenge was announced?

EDIT: Just read through a few of the previous posts and it sounds like, "If the model or part of the model existed before the Challenge in any way, you can't use it" (correct me if I'm wrong).
Looks like I'll have to go back and remodel those particular areas.

[Kirt]

LunarTick - The primary objective of the challenge is to learn. How is that being discriminatory towards those who are just starting in digital arts? The first challenge I entered (Enchanted Forest, challenge III or IV or something like that) was the first time I used a Wacom for any digital illustration and one of only a few illustrations evercolored with Photoshop. Even though I did not finish, I learned quite a bit about working with pressure sensitive brushes in Photoshop. Each challenge since then, I like to think I've gotten better.

We're not telling you what software to use. There are many freeware apps that are capable of producing a winning entry. You don't have to have the "big-boy-toys" to win this contest. You have to have the willingness to learn, contribute and expand your creative abilities. If you don't have the desire to try or willingness to learn, then feel free to visit any other forum ... because you've already lost.

Master Zap - Do it in needlepoint and pony express your entry to us. This is a digital arts forum. I think it's already been mentioned that traditional media could be used, but you should at least do some sort of adjustments to the image digitally.

ArtisticVisions - My own personal opinion would be that this wouldn't be a major concern. You should be up front about the status of the model in your WIP thread. My guess is that not many folks will hold it against you if you have a 10-20% model as the contest began. Then again ... 20% wouldn't be hard to begin anew. You do have 3 months to complete the challenge. What's 20%? About a day's worth of work?

[ArtisticVisions]

True; the only parts which were done at the start of the contest were the chest area and part of the head (they won't take too long to remodel).

I should probably post the WIP images of the model at various stages, shoudn't I? I mean, I have the model saved at various stages, but I didn't think about posting the WIP pics of it (really stupid on my part, but good thing this issue came when it did).
I'll post those images as soon as I get out of class.

[Trojan123]

I would like to participate in this contest, however I cannot seem to post anything in the enter forum.


Can a MOD or someone please check my priveleges?

SB

[Kirt]

I would like to participate in this contest, however I cannot seem to post anything in the enter forum.


Can a MOD or someone please check my priveleges?

SB
http://www.cgtalk.com/showpost.php?p=1666700&postcount=226

[stoat]

After a disaster with Mozilla I've gone and lost the e mail that lets me into my thread to upload things. Would it be possible to send it again? :sad:

:bounce: Okay, I've sorted it :)

[ET]

i have typed my name with one of our letter (turkish) in my surname and it shows up like 2219!)'()^ kinda surname. so how can i change it into Tanriverdi _?

[Laa-Yosh]

D'oh, question already answered...

[userBrian]

How do I remove an image I submitted if it is wrong or a double post? Thanks

[Wiro]

just upload the proper image and leave a note about the error in your thread. If it really bugs you, PM the tech guy Mibus and ask him to remove it

Wiro

[jasonhendrik]

when will cgtalk fix the "upload image" problem
- everytime i try submitting an entry i get a stupid message saying that the database
has malfunctioned.. whats up?

[Wiro]

jasonhendrik, this seems to happen if you forget to categorize your entry in the dropdown list (Sketch, model, lighting, etc)...happened to me

If the problem persists, please PM mibus and tell him exactly what you did.

Wiro

[jasonhendrik]

gee now i feel knda dumb.
thanks alot!

[TheGreatRaja]

I have been kicking around an idea for this contest of large space station (ala Bladerunner) around in alien world that shows the grand achivement of man rather than the destruction that man and/or alien can do. I am planning at this stage to do it in 2D rather than 3D. (maybe 3D is I have the time) my questions are this

My scanner is only big enough to hold am 8 1/2 by 11 Inch piece of paper. at 300 DPI will this be big enough?

Is it possible to start out as a 2D entry then switch over to a 3D one? or the other way.
Say that I have the 2D Entry at a 'Final Stage" and then try to do a 3D version before the dead line. If I don't succeed with I be stuck halfway between the two.

Sorry if these question have been asked, I have read through the 19 odd pages, I may have missed them.

[BookMansBlues]

Scan it in parts and stich it together in Photoshop I say or take it down to kinkos and have them do it.

[3doid]

well, this is a silly questions... but how many honerable mention r there gonna b?

[Viridian]

While working on my entry, I've come across a decision which might be in a 'grey zone'. I read every post in the FAQ category, but still have no clear answers. Rather than take a chance on being disqualified, I thought I'd post my delimma. I appreciate the chance to participate in the challenge and will accept your ruling on this matter without argument.

A couple of years ago I was asked to make a model of a ship for use in a game mod. The mod-project eventually tanked, and thus the model was never used. The model was never distributed. I, however, really like the idea of the model (a space ship based upon a shark's form).

I would not be using this model in the challenge. That, I know, would be wrong. In any case, the original model would be unsuitable for any quality work (being only 94 polygons). But I like the concept of the ship and it would suit my composition perfectly.

I would like to build a model from the ground up which is similar, and use it in my entry. This model would only resemble the older one in passing (like the difference between a single-propeller aircraft and an F-16). I have great changes in mind for the ship (heavy dark armor like a prehistoric shark, heavier appearance, different bridge locations and shape, and other refinements).

Essentially, I'd be using the same concept (ship shaped like a shark) but building a new, high-poly (and infinately meaner :twisted: ) version. And I'd document the building of the model accordingly.

One part of my brain says "That shouldn't be a problem. If I perfer shark-shaped ships it's a reflection of individual style."

But still I get a nagging feeling when starting on the new model. I don't want to cheat.

I know everyone's really busy... but could I get a ruling on this?

Thanks.

-Shane

[jasonhendrik]

Can we use models weve made for personal projects in the past?
the models being, without anything pre-fabricated...

what if i have an bank of great models iv been building and collecting
and now, id like to open them up, modify them if need be, and compose them into the
"scene" of which im working.

can i do this - or do i have to build everything from scratch?

[ArtisticVisions]

jasonhendrik: No; no models made previous to the start of the Challenge can be used.

[jasonhendrik]

o.k.

now excuse me as i go and and become a
really busy bee. aaaaaa! GOGO TIME!

what's the answer to veridians' plan?

[Lunatique]

I've been trying to upload my progress for days now. Something is very wrong with cgnetworks, or maybe my browser. Everytime I try to upload an image, my browser closes by itself. I tried Firefox and IE, and neither works. Help?

[Wiro]

TheGreatRaja: that res amounts to 2550 x 3300 which is only slightly less than the guidline so that looks fine. Are you thinking of painting it fully on paper? If you're thinking of painting digitally after scanning you can even upsize before that. Either way, upsizing to the required res wouldn't result in much of a quality loss.

3doid: I got no clue but I'd imagine one or two per category depending on how much good stuff there'll be

Viridian: that shouldn't pose a problem at all. We all have ideas floating in our heads that only await the right occasion.

jasonhendrik: as stated in the rules, no premade models at all

Lunatique: that's odd! Please PM mibus and tell him what exactly you're doing.

Wiro

[Viridian]

Thank you Wiro. :)

[ArtisticVisions]

Lunatique: Thats odd; I mean, I have problems at times submiting my images as well, but the window never closes. Does this happen with any other site you go to?

[Andrei2k]

One other person asked this and I did not see an answer......

My initial concept is 2-3 main events that take place in a timeline and I feel that my images will depend on the couple sequences of events to make the most impact. Is this allowed? Thank you.

Andrei

[Etch_A_Sketch]

I read that 25% of the judging is going to rely on our contributing to the discussions and commenting on others works. I don't have any problem with understanding this and it makes sense to get input from many sources and interact with everyone involved as much as possible. However, I do find that I may have problems keeping up with some of the others who manage to have 24/7 access to the internet and plenty of spare time. (I work 2 jobs to pay the bills and have access to the internet only when I visit a relatives house.) I will certainly do my best to view and make comments and critiques when the opportunities present themselves, I just hope there is some rule of thumb that is applied to this condition when the judging begins. I hope this doesn't sound like a complaint, as it is not intended to be.

[Wiro]

Andrei2k:

As long as people don't start making comicbook pages this should be allright. You're basically painting three pics instead of one but if you think you can manage that then go ahead.

But please, no comics! 3 pics should be the limit

Etch_A_Sketch: I know what you mean, it's hard enough as a mod to go through all the threads when you have a dayjob that most often turns into a day+night job. But I'd say it's not really about the quantity of posts but the quality. Let your voice count instead of highfiving each thread and you should be ok.

Wiro

[d-tox]

an question:

it's about my thread(http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=181270&page=2&highlight=wouter)
Well the problem is that i first posted my pictures on another site. though i made this model after the start of the challenge, and ofcourse also only posted pictures after the start of the challenge. here's the other site : http://gathering.tweakers.net/forum...ssages/963836/5 (I quite posting here)
If this is problem i will make a new mesh...Please tell me i need to know before i can go any further with this...
thnx:)

[Archetype]

as the contest "admin" on the other site .. ill have to note this .
we dont actualy care if u re-use meshes for another contest
why i've noticed you about this

to my knowledge you have posted your meshes on That site in the contest forum previous to you start on cgtalk "u have atleast started" your scene on that site .


eventhough u modeled After the contest start on cgtalk .
i doubt these meshes where originaly intended to be made for cgtalk GSO .

tbh i ask of you to be original for the cgtalk contest .
and not recontinue something u made for gathering.tweakers.net


i think its up to the admins to decide weither your alowed to continue these models as a legit GSO entry .

[d-tox]

as the contest "admin" on the other site .. ill have to note this .
we dont actualy care if u re-use meshes for another contest
why i've noticed you about this

to my knowledge you have posted your meshes on That site in the contest forum previous to you start on cgtalk "u have atleast started" your scene on that site .


eventhough u modeled After the contest start on cgtalk .
i doubt these meshes where originaly intended to be made for cgtalk GSO .

tbh i ask of you to be original for the cgtalk contest .
and not recontinue something u made for gathering.tweakers.net


i think its up to the admins to decide weither your alowed to continue these models as a legit GSO entry .Yes it was made for here. But i usually post here after i've modelled it in max for a while. So i first posted the base of the mesh and stuff there. And when most of it was done i begin posting here(though it's still far far from being finished)...
But notice i didn't made this model before the start of this challenge...
And i don't see what this has to do with being original...but as i said i just posted a few pic's on that site and i quite doing that now...
(and it's definitly not re-using, this model is still very far from finished man..)

But i think it's up to the admins to...

[Archetype]

Wip / Contest entrys are 2 different things .. things that have been explained too you already

my point of view ..
i've started a contest "topic stared by devega"
wich is <- yours truely


i've seen u start a scene for that specific contest
CGtalk contest starts here
you enter the model in that Same scene on gathering.tweakers.net. and post it in the contest .
you submit the same model here

i point it out .
you flame me @ gathering.tweakers.net
i told you that i think it isnt allowed according to the GSO rules .
u keep on denieing that it is . and that im wrong all along .

if your serious about this contest you should be more open to others suggestions .

[d-tox]

Wip / Contest entrys are 2 different things .. things that have been explained too you already
You know yourselfe that isn't a real contest...it'f just for fun...but besides that...That doesn't make a real difference since i quite there...

[RobertJ]

Je laat je wel kennen Wouter.

But there are rules here, and some may raise some eyebrowes, others are questionable, but when it comes to originality and securing that everyone has a equal start at this contest the rules are very clear.

Q: I am currently working on another space opera-theme project (commercial/non-commercial/whatever). Can I make my image for this contest based on the other project?
A: Be original and imaginative please. Create a unique image.

[d-tox]

Je laat je wel kennen Wouter.

But there are rules here, and some may raise some eyebrowes, others are questionable, but when it comes to originality and securing that everyone has a equal start at this contest the rules are very clear.

Q: I am currently working on another space opera-theme project (commercial/non-commercial/whatever). Can I make my image for this contest based on the other project?
A: Be original and imaginative please. Create a unique image.
OK fine with me. I will begin all over again. I just thought it wouldn't matter. I did everything by the rules, i only posted it on another site first.....I just don't really see the big deal...

[vrhead]

A question about the concept art... can it be 3d as well because i can not draw worth a damn... if you want stick figures and rough outlines i can do it =)

[The Time Serpent]

just a question, after making and submitting the first sketch (its quite bad really... it looks like i drawed with my butt) can i give it to someone to develop it into a proper looking concept (and changing it according to my wishes) i know that team work is not allowed but i just wanted to be sure is this kind of situation is still going under teamwork

[Strannik]

:scream: Tell me. And if I already have "own" universe (

Empire forever: http://www.gpashkov.hotbox.ru/3dporto_e.htm (http://www.gpashkov.hotbox.ru/3dporto_e.htm)
)
could I present it here.

With fully use of available models and textures.

Or it is necessary to make all models from zero. Naturally developing the "new" universe.

[Kirt]

The last three questions have been answered already. Please read the thread before posting a question that's been covered. Thank you.

In summary:
vrhead - Stick figure concept = OK. Use Legos, stuffed animals and bits of navel lint if you have to. Just try your best to clarify your ideas.

The Time Serpent - If someone other than yourself works on your entry it is no longer an individual project = teamwork

gpashkov - 3 posts prior to yours = No. Start over from scratch

[Strannik]

Signifies I did it is correct . And have begun with zero.

[vrhead]

there are 21 pages of posts so far

[mmoir]

Hello CG moderators,
I have a question, can I use a bvh file to pose the character that I modeled and textured. I would create the bvh file or pose in poser, it wouldn't be a stock pose. I read through all 21 pages of faq but didn't see an answer to this. I know you want us to avoid poser but can I import a bvh file to rig my character in my 3d app. I am leaning to doing it all in carrara but could you let me know for sure.

Mike
My space opera entry.

[SuperXCM]

Hello,

i've got a question... how many image can we submit in the thread? Is there a limit?
I know that there is some "obligation" - concept, modeling, texture...- but how many of each one can we post?
Thanks to answer me.

I hope, you understand what i want to explain... :blush:

Sorry for my bad english!!! :buttrock:

[JLytle]

How do i enter? I registered for the site today and when i tried to start a new thread to enter, a mesage said that i could not do so can a mod please help me out here.

[Kirt]

SuperXCM - No limits. I mean ... unless you fill up the server. That would be too much. :D

JLytle - http://www.cgtalk.com/showpost.php?p=1666700&postcount=226

mmoir - I don't think there are any restrictions on how you pose your characters/models. You might mention the method used in your thread though. Just to explain the technique used.

vrhead - Yeah, and the Mods are growing wearing of repeating themselves.

[mmoir]

Kirt,
Thanks for the answer. I will explain how I did my rigging of the characters.
Mike
My Space opera entry
http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=180886

[Climax]

• I have another question:

I understand Story is a very important point to be evauated ( of course most important thing is the image itself ) but how detailed should it be, i mean, only to give sense to the image or should we write some kind of short novel?

• I make this question because i went more like a resume and don't know if it is just fine if it describes the "why" of the image

• By the way, I want to thank CGTALK for this contest, it really got me adict :love: this is my first 3d challenge ever and I'm really exited about it :buttrock:

I'm having so much fun I feel like a kid!

[NOOB!]

i'm 16,is there an age limit for the contest???

[brisck1]

Can someone please help me!!?? Im still having problems submitting work on my computer! All I get is a messege saying

"Error:
Whoops! Something strange happened with the database. An email has been dispatched to the Webmaster to look into."

I've tried everything, but nothing works, tried turning off my firewall and clearing my cookies but it still doesnt work!! im getting really frustrated having to submit my work on other people's machines! :(

[mmoir]

Brisckl1,
Have you tried a different browser, that sometimes helps with things like that.

Mike
My GSO entry

http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=180886&page=3&pp=15

[brisck1]

What's a good alternative that wont totally override IE?

[Dr.Paint]

You could try Firefox (http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/) or Opera (http://www.opera.com/). You can dowload and use them both for free. :)

[ArtisticVisions]

NOOB!: Unless it's been really hidden somewhere in the FAQs, there is no age limit (if I'm wrong, someone please correct me).

[NOOB!]

aight cool then,don't worry i'm not a crappy amateur either *i'm ahead of my time*

hope someone can clearify soon.

[victor throe]

i have started work on my entry but when i try to add a pic attachment to my entry it says i may not add attachments

http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?threadid=179127


have i missed something obvious?
is there a time limit for how long a thread has been active before it is no longer valid?
i can post attachments to other threads..?!?!?

help on this would be appreciated

anyone else had this problem?

[Dr.Paint]

@ victor
only submit your wip here http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/grandspaceopera/submit_entry.php :deal:

[victor throe]

thanks dr paint


mucho appreciato

[BebeteLANUITE]

If i use a concept i find for an other CGtalk contest (like MachineFlesh) because i didn't able to finish the picture. The story is the same, the characters too but the final image will be an other moment of the story.
Can i use it ?

Thanks for answer.
Bye.

[Kirt]

No, you can't use anything from a previous challenge. Start with something new.

[JDex]

I'm concerned about the interactivity portion of the challenge... I am currently stuck with a broken arm and have only started gaining enough mobility with my other arm to start doing very-rough sketches of my concept. Since I won't be in a position to post any concepts worth showing for a week or two more, and even then it will be slow going, am I automatically hit with a penalty? I mean I don't expect to win, but it seems a bit daunting to think that I will get a disadvantage because of a disadvantage...

[Kirt]

Sorry to hear about your injury JDex. But, it's not really keeping you from interacting with others on the challenge. So you can't draw ... you can still leave feedback/encouragement for others. All still a part of the community interaction.

Hope you recover soon.

[BebeteLANUITE]

Thank you for answer

[macoD]

I wanna join to Grand Space Opera 3D category but it display to me that I am not allowed to post threads.?

Why. Whats wrong? Thx for help

[Dr.Paint]

@macod
Enter the Challenge here: http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/grandspaceopera/enter.php

[Starzchica23]

Hi, I goofed at misspelled my name when I entered the challege, anyway I can change it? (I guess us creative types aren't so good at things like language, as social skills, and spelling our own names! :) )

Well, good luck to ya all!

[Kirt]

Starzchica23 - PM Mibus (http://www.cgtalk.com/member.php?u=33432) and he'll be able to fix it for you.

[PLATE]

"3. Pre-fabricated models are not allowed to be used. These include models generated from Poser, Daz3D, Terragen, Bryce and other parametric model generation software."

I need a more detailed explanation of this rule. Don't really undestand what "models generated from" stands for. Does this means that Poser, Daz3D, Terragen and Bryce can't be used at all?

[Kirt]

Poly/splines must be created by you.
You can't use File > Open.
Create tree/landscape/humanoid/cow/whatever = not allowed.
etc., etc., etc.

This has been discussed in great detail already.

I have never used Poser, Daz, Terragen or Bryce ... so, I'd say don't use them at all unless you can build your models completely from scratch (and even then, I think you'd be better off avoiding the apps). Wings and Blender are still freeware, right? :shrug:

[NOOB!]

ok hold on just a sec lol.

now i read that if u win,u gotta make a *making of* in order to get prizes...so the guys that win have to make a tutorial?? or what??? cos theres a difference between a tutorial and say ...progression.

i jus wanna know if it is gunna be like a tutorial,cos if i finish everything obviously my previous stuff won't exist cos i wouldn't have saved.its un likely i win lol.but i'm sure others are confused too.

[Kirt]

Look at the Machineflesh archive. You'll find articles written by the winners of that challenge. This should give you a good idea of what you'll need to write if you win.

[NOOB!]

i can't find what they wrote in the machineflesh archive.

[OKMER]

Hello:bounce: I would like to know if it's admiited to do an panaromic?
Like uh, 20 x 40 for exemple?

[Kirt]

NOOB! - Ooops ... sorry. I couldn't find the Machineflesh articles either. However, this page (http://www.cgnetworks.com/articles/index.php?cat=readerproject) has some good examples of member's articles from the Alienware challenge and other CGChoice Gallery winners.

OKMER - It's in the rules ...Final Image Size

Your final image dimensions should be print resolution (as large as you can possibly render). Do not send in a low-resolution placeholder and ask us to get back to you, as we won't. A guideline is 2657 pixels wide and/or 3636 high, 300 DPI (portrait), or
3636 pixels wide and/or 2657 pixels high, 300 DPI (landscape). Your image
aspect ratio and layout will dictate the final resolution. These are given
as guidelines. To be safe, render images that are larger than these
specified. DO NOT upsample your images to achieve higher resolution. If you cannot reach the desired full-page resolution, just send in what you have.... panorama is OK as long as you keep the width within the guidelines.

[bolchover]

Hi,
It's been mentioned above in context of 3D challenge, that textures are allowed. What about in context of 2D? I was going for purely digital drawing/painting in the 2D challenge - no 3d generated or photo elements etc as a matter of course. I believed this is the rules.

But today I've noticed one or two 2D challengers have used photos (whether stock or taken themselves) to add texture (one 2d challenger has used photo textures on a drawing to give texture, and used a 3d programme to generate a planet/terrain backdrop in what is to be his final image, not a layout...). Please can you clarify whether this is allowed. If it is, how then are judges drawing the distinction (and correlating the merits) between

the relative ease of mapping a photo texture onto, say, a blank coloured area, with a resulting realistic look and quick-win
versus

the more challenging representation of the intricacies of texture via drawing alone (in my case, and many others, through use of a drawing tablet in photoshop or painter).
The latter is, I believe, what most people (including me) are doing, and surely more clearly within the rules. I raise this only because I go in for highly realistic digital drawings (although I've played around with photo textures like everyone else :) ).

I think it would be useful to clarify! Thanks very much,

[Kirt]

It's pretty simple ... are you using the photos and/or 3D model(s) in your 2D image as an "aid" or "element"?

Aid = OK
Element = NO

An "aid" would be classified as a preliminary step to your process in which you would most likely cover up or rework the photo 90% or more, leaving the final photo image hard to recognize within it's current context. For example, using a scan of your forehead as a texture on your rocket thrusters (color corrected, detailed, properly lit, etc.).

An "element" would be an obvious copy-paste (for lack of a better term) of the original photo and/or painted over, wherein the end result is easily identified as being a photo or borrowed picture that you did not directly create. For example, "Dude! WTF is Gollum doing on that asteroid?"

I probably over-simplified those examples ... but I hope that makes sense. :D

[celteric]

"3. Pre-fabricated models are not allowed to be used. These include models generated from Poser, Daz3D, Terragen, Bryce and other parametric model generation software."

I need a more detailed explanation of this rule. Don't really undestand what "models generated from" stands for. Does this means that Poser, Daz3D, Terragen and Bryce can't be used at all? Just to emphasize PLATE's request, it seems pretty obvious that a submission mostly based on pre-generated models or textures doesn't show much creativity and can't compete really. But I'd like to know how flexible is that rule if, let's say, I'd use pre-generated models or textures as a base and "heavily" modify them to get a unique and personal result?
In a concern of saving time, what I currently have in mind is the use of DEM maps to create the base of a landscape as well as the use of plugins to create randomized scattering or minor details of an object.

I understand it's a tricky subject that can easily be abused, and it would be only fair to simply stick to a strict policy regarding the use of this kind of data. In the end, it is always possible to do everything by hand! :)

[InTheCity]

I want to participate in this challenge, but I'm put off by the rules.
I don't sketch, in actual fact I don't ever conceive a piece until I at least have several objects.
Sketching a concept isn't how my mind works and in the industry as long as your technique pays off, then you should in theory be able to do it anyway you want.

If not, then i'm worried, because I have the ability to come up with awesome concepts, but I can't emphasize enough that my pen and pencil skills really suck.

[Kirt]

I'm not going to loose it ... I'm not going to loose it ... :argh:

Really, I know your questions are all valid as I'm a firm believer that any dumb question is the one that goes un-asked. However, I can't help but think that there are a bunch of questions being asked just to see how to far we can stretch the rules and make a situation that fits each person's individual needs.

I mean, I'm half expecting someone to ask, "Can I render on Tuesdays only? I'm really busy the rest of the week."

First rule from here on out ... use your own common sense. The rules are there, how you bend and flex them to fit your own style is entirely up to you. How others interpret your creativity with the rules is the only thing you should be worried about. You have to use your own judgement to determine if others may interpret your methods as cheating or short-cutting the challenge in any way.

I want to use my dog as a character reference ...
I want to use condiments and jellies on my scanner ...
I want to use playdough to block out my forms ...

AAAAUUUUUGGGHHHH!!! Fine! Just get to work on it and the feedback you recieve from other members will let you know well in advance if you're doing something that seems against the rules! :banghead:

Ooops ... sorry. I lost it. :D

I'm going to have a smoke and heavily caffinated liquid refreshment. Carry on ...

[Nomad]

Hello,

Q: Because of hardware limitations, is it ok to render a part and use it as a background, or render in "layers" and composite it all togueder later?
A: All post trickery is allowed and encouraged.

Is that means that I can paint over the final image to refine some texture details??
Is it allowed to have 2d elements between 3d elements (like clouds, "flat lensflares or paint explosions) ??

Thank you for any answer.

[ArtisticVisions]

I'm not going to loose it ... I'm not going to loose it ... :argh:Please don't lose it, Kirt; I still want to see you finish your entry without going crazy. :D

[celteric]

Sorry Kirt. I didn't mean to make you lose it with my dumb questions. :blush: I'll shut up and stick to the rules...

[SibSpi]

Question: Can I soften the rules with hot water to make them easier to bend? :D

Heh - well I can't see that there are really any questions that could be asked now that haven't been answered - twice. I think someone (I'm on dialup so scrap that) should take *all* the questions and answers now and compile the, into a single FAQ file.

Well anyway - SibSpi goes back to his work.

[leigh]

Hello,

Q: Because of hardware limitations, is it ok to render a part and use it as a background, or render in "layers" and composite it all togueder later?
A: All post trickery is allowed and encouraged.

Is that means that I can paint over the final image to refine some texture details??
Is it allowed to have 2d elements between 3d elements (like clouds, "flat lensflares or paint explosions) ??

Thank you for any answer.

Yup, that would qualify as post production. At least it does in my book :)

Question: Can I soften the rules with hot water to make them easier to bend?

It depends. Only some of the rules are water soluble.

Heh - well I can't see that there are really any questions that could be asked now that haven't been answered - twice. I think someone (I'm on dialup so scrap that) should take *all* the questions and answers now and compile the, into a single FAQ file.

If you do that, I'll send you a Bar-One. Or a Kit-Kat. It's your choice.

[Nomad]

Thanks a lot Leigh, a last question which follows my questions about matte paintings:
Is it possible, for example, to create and render a tree and after make a complete forest in photoshop by copying it on the final image?? is this still in rules? :curious:

I have a lot of vegetation to add in my image and I will be glad if I can paint it on the image :arteest: beacause the base of the image still 3d I think it fits in the rules no? :curious:

[leigh]

CG artwork is all about trickery :) Personally I have no problem with duplicating vegetation. If you were doing it in 3D, you'd instance the tree anyway, so I don't see how that's different if you do it in post.

So yeah, sure go ahead :)

[DimitrisLiatsos]

Hi Leigh ...for some unknown to me reason...i can't upload wips in the challenge site since last night. The system says that either i am not logged in or that i haven't enabled cookies...i have done both...Can u help me in any way with this ? :banghead:
:bounce:

[Nazirull]

Hey Dimitri friend! - Youre not alone!

For once im done with all my work...and finally starting on the entry...but I cant post my WIP!
:scream:
Posted a few yesterday tho...but time is running out! need to post more!:scream: :bounce:

HILFE!!:argh:

[claudiojordao]

Yeah!
I can't upload my wip too, same problem as Dimitris and Maranello55!
Heeeelllp!

[Maël]

hi, i'm trying to enter the challenge but i can't go further than the page "step 2of3 personnal details". when i submit my full name and country i've the mlessage : "You are not logged in... please ensure that you have cookies enabled! " .i've disabled all my internet securities and firewall and antiviruses but i've always the same message. help please...

[Nazirull]

I tried to login using the 'login' link on top of the 2of3 page....but it links to a 404 page....obviously that may be the problem....if you guys dont know by now.:wise:

Who am i trying to tell you guys huh???:scream:

[ChrisThatGuy]

Yeah, I'm having the same posting problem. I've sent a PM like they say to do on the first page of the FAQ. Let's hope someone can fix it soon.

Edit: I've tried to post on two different computers with fairly different specs, so I don't believe it's any kind of hardware / browser / user problem.

[nuclearman]

Same problem here! I'm not sure whether this has anything to do with it, but I had to remove the "bla" worm from my system yesterday and the problems started shortly thereafter.

[gulliver3]

hi i 'm in the cg challenge , and since today , i got problems to post my image ,
i tried 10 times this morning , i logged and i follow the steps , but it doesn't work ,
why? the process run , but at the end , no image and always the same message (you are not logged , but it's not true , i logged each times ... )
can you help me?

[DimitrisLiatsos]

I 've PM to Mibus and Leigh about it so i think they'll fix it soon 'cuase i imagine i am not the only one who did so...so i think we should sit back and wait :bounce:

[gulliver3]

I 've PM to Mibus and Leigh about it so i think they'll fix it soon 'cuase i imagine i am not the only one who did so...so i think we should sit back and wait :bounce: ok thank's DimitrisLiatsos for your answer , i know now
i'm not alone whith this problem , so i'll wait and continue my work until all is ok....:rolleyes:

[SnakeFarlow]

I have a problem when i try to send an image. The system tell me that i am no Logged in or that the cookies are not enabled. I have logged in many times, and it doesn´t send the image, and I dont know how to enable the cookies if that is the problem. This problem starts just before i reach 30 posts, it may be is becouse the avatar or something like that.

Can you tell me please what i need to do?

Snake Farlow. The rogue.

[gulliver3]

I have a problem when i try to send an image. The system tell me that i am no Logged in or that the cookies are not enabled. I have logged in many times, and it doesn´t send the image, and I dont know how to enable the cookies if that is the problem. This problem starts just before i reach 30 posts, it may be is becouse the avatar or something like that.

Can you tell me please what i need to do?

Snake Farlow. The rogue. i have the same problem SnakeFarlow , i waiting for answer from Leigh or anyone who have a solution...

[Versiden]

ye, I'm also having the same problem in uploading - hope they fix it soon

[Mibus]

Hi guys,

It should be fixed now, let me know how it goes :)

[gulliver3]

Hi guys,

It should be fixed now, let me know how it goes :) yes it work now , thank's:thumbsup:

[DimitrisLiatsos]

:bounce: Mibus... :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

yes Maaster...IT'S ALIVE - IT'S ALIVE

again..thanks

[Nazirull]

Thank Mibus!!! Its working beautifully!! WoOoHooOO!!!:bounce:

[claudiojordao]

Yeeaaaahhhhhhhh!!! Now I'm happy :bounce:

Thank's Mibus... what was it?

[ChrisThatGuy]

Thank you! :applause:

[Versiden]

ok, I'm probably going to shot down horribly by moderators.. but I'm gonna stick my head out ...

It is that time of the year, Christmas and New years, and time to spend with Family and just chill out for a while. Can the deadline be extended for 1 week?
I've only participated in 1 challenge, and I know that deadlines were really enforced, and some great entries missed it.... but I'd just thought I'd ask.

that's my Christmas wish, totally respect the decision either way.

[Aethyrprime]

yeah thank the forum gods who fixed it! I was finally able to put about half a dozen updates up now! W00t!

[pushav]

Is it 2 late 2 enter even though people are on the 2nd entries. I have not been here in a while.

[Mibus]

Thank's Mibus... what was it? We were seeing people having DB issues because of invalid cookies; I added some code to ignore them if they were invalid but it was a bit over-zealous and would consider some genuine cookies invalid (thus ignore the login cookie).

Is it 2 late 2 enter even though people are on the 2nd entries. I have not been here in a while.
I don't suppose so, but you'd better hurry :)

[leigh]

ok, I'm probably going to shot down horribly by moderators.. but I'm gonna stick my head out ...

It is that time of the year, Christmas and New years, and time to spend with Family and just chill out for a while. Can the deadline be extended for 1 week?
I've only participated in 1 challenge, and I know that deadlines were really enforced, and some great entries missed it.... but I'd just thought I'd ask.

that's my Christmas wish, totally respect the decision either way.

Well it's Leonards call on this one, but I have to say that I doubt it could happen...

[gulliver3]

I know I would not say nothing , but considering 2 continents separate us, I release all! you have very beautiful eyes Leigh....

[leigh]

Heh errr thanks :blush:

[Jaba153]

hello! i want to post my final image it's 3636 high and 7mo but i can't submit-it.it doesn't work maybe it's too heavy or i 'm limited to 150k? it's a stupid question sorry..:shrug:

[Mibus]

hello! i want to post my final image it's 3636 high and 7mo but i can't submit-it.it doesn't work maybe it's too heavy or i 'm limited to 150k?
You're limited to 150kb for your Final milestone JPEG... closer to the finishing date we'll open an FTP area where you'll be able to upload your 7MB print-resolution TIFF.

:)

[zuraq]

[QUOTE=Think BIG, like star wars, or maybe buck rogers, or Star trek.
Imagine a new universe were people are living, there are planets, solar systems, there are bad people and god people.
Think space travel, warp drives/gates, spaceships, maybe there is war, there are maybe different races of aliens.


I hope you get an understanding of it all.
Good luck.

[EVIL]

Is it OK for me to depict multiple parts of one moment in one image, similar like a comic page but without textual content

[Jordano]

Simple question to any of the moderators!
For the current challenge :

Q: Are random or parametric terrain and foliage/plant generation software (Bryce/Vue/Terragen) allowed?
A: No. This has been a legacy of the last 15 Challenges. The whole purpose of the Challenge is to learn. We challenge artists with a concept/theme and rules/boundaries by which people have to work with. What's the challenge in pressing a few buttons and getting an automatic scene or terrain out of that? There's no challenge!

Q.: Is it possible to create a terrain in Terragen and use after that Photoshop and Painter to recreate a specific subject as 2d work. Is it or is it not one of the ways we create a matte painting?

Regards,

Jordan

[Zell]

The very title of your challenge has a typo, it should be "civilization" and not "civilisation". At least on the main image in http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/grandspaceopera/images/spaceopera_01.jpg

Just to let you know! This challenge looks great, can't wait to see more stuff coming out.

[Nomad]

Another rules question (hope it is the last), is it allowed to use the random cloner plugin on LW? this tool makes copies of objects on an area (defined for example by a weight map). Guys using maya can make the same by using artisan so I think it can be allowed :) no?

I pasted an example where I cloned few trees.

http://www.maciejfrolow.com/files/trees01.jpg

[ArtisticVisions]

Nomad: I'm pretty sure that would be an acceptible thing to do. (if I'm wrong, the Mods can correct me)

[leigh]

Is it OK for me to depict multiple parts of one moment in one image, similar like a comic page but without textual content

Yup.

Q.: Is it possible to create a terrain in Terragen and use after that Photoshop and Painter to recreate a specific subject as 2d work. Is it or is it not one of the ways we create a matte painting?

Yup, if your entry is in the 2D catagory.

The very title of your challenge has a typo, it should be "civilization" and not "civilisation".

This has been mentioned a few times already... "civilization" is an American spelling. The rest of the world spells it with an "s". Along with words like rationalisation, capitalisation, immunisation, etc ;)

Another rules question (hope it is the last), is it allowed to use the random cloner plugin on LW? this tool makes copies of objects on an area (defined for example by a weight map).

Yup.

[SibSpi]

Question:

Who took my kettle? I was going to boil some water to soften the rules but now I can't find it! :/

Real Question (more like a query):

I just thought about this... I created my big bad fusion cannon just now, which is close to completion, without having drawn any concepts for it. The design was simple, the bits and pieces are all placed as I eventually find fitting, and the other details are added as a texture afterwards.
Now, although it is actually a requirement to create concepts before the modelling begins, or at least make a rough object to get the shape right and *then* draw the concept. The last time I tried drawing out this concept I ended up with nothing more than my mom asking me "Ok so what is it supposed to be?"

Now I thought, why is it so necessary to create concepts before actually creating the model? When you sit with your pencil tip on the paper, you are thinking "I'll make a line going over here for the *whatever, it's the main part* of the ship. And then I'll add the wingline here... and I'll put the guns around there on the wings. No, that doesn't look too nice. Maybe I'll put them along the front of the ship. Nah... Oh I know, just in front of the wings on the front side of the ship"
While in modelling you do this. "I'll make the base shape like so, and I'll put the wingline over there. Ok, the main shape is finished, now for some details. Finished with the details, let's make a gun. Ok the gun is finished. I'll put it under the wing. Nah that looks dumb. How about on the front of the ship? Nah that also looks lame. Howbout on the front side of the ship? Ah cool! That looks perfect! Now let's start the texturing."

The best part of the modelling version is that as you already have your model, and you're now onto texturing, you can make a texture fitting of the environment, with the actual design already being done. While sometimes when you've got your pencil on the paper, you notice you've not even thought about terrain yet, and now you're sitting with something that looks like it's meant to only go underwater/in the air.

Now, while I can imagine as it is a requirement that my way of working won't go down too well, I hafto think that not everyone here is always making concepts behind their brilliant works. I personally have never really worked from concept drawings (and obviously it didn't get me very far) but I hafto say I'm able to be far more creative when I just get straight to modelling rather than sitting there for hours trying to draw something that at least resembles a car.


How 'bout that?

Magic the Gathering: Sixth Edition
Inspiration
"Genius and Madness are seperated only be degrees of success."

[rashaverak]

i dont know if my question has an answer in any way in the faqs already... but, here it is:
can i render my scene and finish the background in a 2D editor (IE: photoshop)? my case is the background of my scene is a sky, so i was thinkin if i could complete the sky with details (IE: stars) in post edition instead creating a texture of stars and aplying to the sky in the 3d soft... doing it in post edition will give me more control...
okz, sorry if my question has already been asked.

greetings!

[CodeNothing]

Hi, im kind of new to digital painting, well, actualy im new to color and painting in general. But is it ok if we do our early color work with oils or acrylics and then finish our piece in photoshop? I know the concept sketches and line art can be done analog, but how far are we alowed to go non-digital? it is the "CG" forum after all....

thanks!
-Adam

[CodeNothing]

To SIBSPI:


The reason concept sketches are required is because it is a fast professional and "Conceptual" way to work.

people who dont have alot of experience drawing obviously dont like doing comps because people ask "whats that suposed to be?". So i suggest if you dont have good drawing skills dont show anyone the drawings. they are just for your own reference anyway.

Modeling a rough draft and switching around wings and parts takes alot of time in 3D modeling and re-modeling. you could have just made a series of 30 thumbnail sketches that dont take more than a minute each and found a shape you liked. then modeled it in a very short amount of time correctly the first way.

[Nomad]

Thanks for the answer Leigh :love:

[Impenetrable D]

Hello sir,

I know you must be busy and I apologize in advance for asking a
seemingly less than astute question, but I thought we, the contestants,
were to produce 1- 2D or 1-3D image depicting a EPIC moment in galactic
history. I am fully prepared to abide by the rules.:shrug: But I am not sure? I
have seen some contestants that have projects depicting multiple images
in a collage type manner. Is this expectable? If so please let me know.
Because I have several conceptual ideas which could be reworked more
freely using this idea.

By the way I really appreciate what you all are doing for the ART
COMMUNITY, it is truly a great service which I wanted to say
THANK YOU for.:applause:
Rendering
Sincerely
Dwight Clark.

[ThiagoSckianta]

Can I post Animated Gif just for a more precise visualization of 3d models?

[SnakeFarlow]

Hi. If I use the trees from the 3Dstudio. Its Ok or I have to make all the work and show it separately. What about textures, It´s ok to use the libraries from the program or not.

[rashaverak]

to ThiagoSckianta:

u can do it, but separately of the Milestones, cause the server only allows jpg format ("Normal Milestone images submitted must be in JPG format only.").

greetings

[leigh]

Eeek so many questions!!

SibSpi - the concept sketches are important because that's how things work professionally. And so we've always stressed this facet of the process. Plus I think it's important because that way everyone establishes right from the start what they are going to be doing, and therefore we can avoid people seeing other peoples ideas and then deciding to copy them (well, it's a useful side-effect of insisting upon sketches).

rashaverak - yes a 2D background is fine.

CodeNothing - since this is a digital contest, the work should be done digitally. The only exception to this is the concept sketch milestone which can be done initially in pencil.

Impenetrable D - this has been asked a few times already, but yes that type of thing is allowed, provided that they are submitted, in the end, as a single image (containing the different panels of course). The important thing is that they are not submitted individually but as a group of images telling a story or such. Make sense?

ThiagoSckianta - you're free to post one during the course of the challenge, but you cannot submit one as a final image. You'll have to host it yourself though, and please note that the server will therefore not count is as an actual milestone. You have to submit at least one JPG for each milestone to qualify for final judging.

SnakeFarlow - ALL the models MUST be done by yourself. Absolutely NO pre-made models are allowed whatsoever. Regarding textures, you're free to use ones from libraries in your texture maps, but remember that most of those images are instantly recognisable and therefore tend to detract from the overall impression of the work.

[KevinJM]

Hi mates,,,could anyone help me please cause i`m a bit confused about the canvas size on which i should work for the grand space opera challenge. i am providing a link to a Photoshop new document screen capture of what i understood of the canvas size
http://www.geocities.com/diazkeuv/canvas.txt

..Am i doing wrong ?,,if yes please explain how i should proceed,,thanks a lot..

[ArtisticVisions]

dean080580: That looks about right; I've learned that PS is really great for estimating pixel and file size just by creating a new file.

[simovici]

How can I upload pictures in the forum discussions?

Thanks

[arturro]

Hi there.

I have a question about the judged resolution... I understand that I deliver maximum 10280x1024 picture i nmy thread, which would be judged by the oter users, and by the jury? and than I upload a print resolution image for further use(in case of some success of course)?

Or the jury will look at the high res pictures...? If so, I have a question how? Maybe I will tell what I'm thinking about:
In my scene there is a great battle in the background, I want(and must) use low poly objects for that. If my picture is watched in e.g. 3636x2657 these objects won't look good, but after printing it(30,78 x 22,5 cm) it would look much better. So in what would be the real size of the picture watched by the jury? Or how the process of "watching" will look like.

Sorry if taht is obvious question, but this is my first challenge and a subscription was my first post on cgtalk. I haven't found the answer for my question in this thread...

[leigh]

dean080580 - the resolution given in the challenge rules is just a guideline. I'm not entirely sure I understand what your question is.

simovici - simply upload your milestones. Instructions for doing so are provided on the challenge site at CGNetworks.

arturro - the jury and voting members look at the images online.

[gulliver3]

hello Leigh, I need information, I had almost finished my image for the challenge and a member announced me that there were elements in my composition which were prohibited, good for this reason I write to you, I must remove some thing in it and if so, that will not be any more the same history, I will be eliminated automatically? finally I ask you that, before continuing... is too late for me? here my image...
http://www3.sympatico.ca/sderepentigny/opera/wipcompletecamera.jpg

[arturro]

gulliver3: I'm sure you won't be eliminated automatically! And there are no element's that would be prohibited. This what the user quoted was a sort of a clue, and a guideline. It means that the originality and idea would be most important, not to repeat previous ideas. Your image may get less points for that, but it's nice and it was your puprose to set it in the mood of the "previous" stereotypical view of aliens. So you shouldn't be afraid of being removed from the challenge.

[leigh]

You haven't mentioned exactly which items are apparently prohibited. The rules forbid the use of any pre-made models - did you use some? If so, remove them and ensure that your final renders do not contain anything that is prohibited.

[gulliver3]

gulliver3: I'm sure you won't be eliminated automatically! And there are no element's that would be prohibited. This what the user quoted was a sort of a clue, and a guideline. It means that the originality and idea would be most important, not to repeat previous ideas. Your image may get less points for that, but it's nice and it was your puprose to set it in the mood of the "previous" stereotypical view of aliens. So you shouldn't be afraid of being removed from the challenge.then you advise me nothing to remove in my image and to continue my lighting and compositing?:rolleyes:

[gulliver3]

You haven't mentioned exactly which items are apparently prohibited. The rules forbid the use of any pre-made models - did you use some? If so, remove them and ensure that your final renders do not contain anything that is prohibited.no leigh, I have no models prefabricated in my scene, I do all myself, but I'm worry with the green aliens and of the flying saucers, do I have was anxious do not have to remove them? if not I await your green light to continue...

[KevinJM]

Dear leigh, i am deciding to compete in the 2d section and i would like to know if it is possible for me to implement some self made 3d renderings in my 2d paintings,, for example the planets.
thanks a lot.

[leigh]

gulliver3, while we discourage making stereotypical aliens and such, it's not strictly against the rules. We just discourage it generally to try and force people to come up with more exciting concepts and images. Your entry right now, while not against the rules as such, doesn't really fit the guidelines though - the idea of the Space Opera challenge is to create scenes of epic proportions containing drama, adventure, and that sort of very large, grand scaled type idea.
So if you're wanting to do an invasion (which is what you seem to be doing), then you should do it on a much larger scale. Try and get more action, more drama, more emotion into your render. Again, your render isn't against the rules, but in all honesty it's also not particularly massive, if you know what I mean. Think about the term "Space Opera" - think about Star Wars and other epic adventures. That's the type of stuff that this challenge is all about :) Big, bold dramatic scenes that have you on the edge of your seat.

dean080580 - yep you can do that. However, if it has more 3D in it than 2D, then you should submit it as a 3D entry.

[gulliver3]

gulliver3, while we discourage making stereotypical aliens and such, it's not strictly against the rules. We just discourage it generally to try and force people to come up with more exciting concepts and images. Your entry right now, while not against the rules as such, doesn't really fit the guidelines though - the idea of the Space Opera challenge is to create scenes of epic proportions containing drama, adventure, and that sort of very large, grand scaled type idea.
So if you're wanting to do an invasion (which is what you seem to be doing), then you should do it on a much larger scale. Try and get more action, more drama, more emotion into your render. Again, your render isn't against the rules, but in all honesty it's also not particularly massive, if you know what I mean. Think about the term "Space Opera" - think about Star Wars and other epic adventures. That's the type of stuff that this challenge is all about :) Big, bold dramatic scenes that have you on the edge of your seat.
ok thank's a lot Leigh for your comments , i'll do my best... and continue my work...:cool:

[KevinJM]

leigh your a star!puiiiiiiiiiikkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk!

[essencedesign]

MoD,,,please advise.......I am buiulding quite a large battle,,,and would like to know what kind of limits there are (if any) on custom aspect ratios...I think It would suit my battle very well to create a very "LONG" windscreen type ratio to my render,,,similar to Old renisance battle paintings depicting hordes of action......

question is basicaly any requirements on render RATIO,,,not size...

[ArtisticVisions]

gulliver3: I think prehaps what that person was talking about was the fact that you have text directly on top of your image (the title and copyright info); according to my knowledge, that isn't allowed in the final entry. (if I'm wrong, Mods, please correct me)

[gulliver3]

gulliver3: I think prehaps what that person was talking about was the fact that you have text directly on top of your image (the title and copyright info); according to my knowledge, that isn't allowed in the final entry. (if I'm wrong, Mods, please correct me) for the text on my image , you have probably right? i don't know...
so ,for now , it's not my final image...

[SnakeFarlow]

I have a little question. How do you exactly count the views, I mean, when a view couts and when not?

[Poisen]

was thinking about making an entry..and have a few questions,

1, is it too late? :)
2, im going to be using zbrush, what catagory 2d or 3d? all of it is going to be "modeled" but the final scene will not be a 3d "environment". ive rain into the problem when posting in the gallerys also..just what the heck is zbrush! 2d or 3d?

[Aethyrprime]

Umm the forums have seemed really glitchy. I have posts coming up in the incorrect order. Refusing to allow me to post and vanishing posts... Am I alone in this encounter?

[Mibus]

Posting order should be fine from now on, one of the servers reset itself and the clock got skewed...

[Mibus]

Hey,

The info on FTP submission of Final TIFFs (print-res) is now up.

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/grandspaceopera/final_image.php

Don't forget that you have to submit a final JPEG through the WIP system, as well as a TIFF via FTP.

If anyone has any difficulties, let me know :)

[leigh]

MoD,,,please advise.......I am buiulding quite a large battle,,,and would like to know what kind of limits there are (if any) on custom aspect ratios...I think It would suit my battle very well to create a very "LONG" windscreen type ratio to my render,,,similar to Old renisance battle paintings depicting hordes of action......

You can enter your renders in whatever ratio you want.

I have a little question. How do you exactly count the views, I mean, when a view couts and when not?

Are you talking about thread views? If so, they are of no importance whatsoever.

[Aethyrprime]

TY, good job, it has been much better lately... I was wondering if all the activity was overloading the database... :P

[dan_ioan]

is allowed to use Camera Map for texturing ? , if not, is is allowed to use for enhancement? Thanks

[leigh]

You can use whatever methods you want for texturing.

[kaparo]

Hello
I'm affraid I'm very new to FTP. When I was tryin gto upload my final hi-res image I type the hostname you are giving in a new internet browser and it redirect me to an "FTP Beginners guide" but I still do not understand:
-Do I have to upload my image to an FTP site or FTP Client?
-What is the excat FTP web direction of yours?
-Do I have to download the program for FTP Client they are telling me in this website?
-When I access to my information for uploading my image there appears a file name for my Zip file. I have to give that exact name to my zip file?

I hope someone could help me to answer this to can finish the challenge.

[Mibus]

-Do I have to upload my image to an FTP site or FTP Client?
You use an FTP client to upload your image to the FTP site.

-What is the excat FTP web direction of yours? All of the FTP information - hostname, username, and password - is given in the "Final Image" page.

-Do I have to download the program for FTP Client they are telling me in this website? You will need *an* FTP client. Windows Explorer in XP also does a reasonable job if you have it. (You need to open an Windows Explorer window, and type "ftp://challenge.cgnetworks.com/" into the window. You'll be asked for your username and password, once it's connected you can drag your ZIP file into that window).

-When I access to my information for uploading my image there appears a file name for my Zip file. I have to give that exact name to my zip file? Yes. The filename for your image doesn't matter, but once you have your ZIP file, make very sure that it has the name given to you.

Some OSs hide the ".zip" part from you, so you may or may not have to include that when you rename it.

Good luck!

[kaparo]

Thanks (again) Robert!

[hydrocell]

hi, i haven't got any instructions for the final delivery in my email... is there somewhere i can find it here or can it be resent? or hasn't it been sent yet..

[fabianv]

Hey, just a quick question... I wanna group my rougher sketches into one reply instead of having them seperate.. how can I do that? It wont let me delete and Im aware that option is removed.. so how do I ask around here? It would be greatly appreciated if I could get a solution instead of "Yeah you cant delete" reply :P

[leigh]

hydrocell - That information is only sent out closer to the end.

fabianv - why not check the image URLS and then place them all into a single post using IMG tags?

[Aethyrprime]

Just a message to the admins/moderators... Thanks for doing a great job and hosting this challenge. It has helped me grow as an artist many times over. Have a happy new year and great holiday season!

[gulliver3]

hello everybody! and especially happy new year 2005 for all ... :buttrock:
I would like to know if I must signed or not my final image?

[gulliver3]

and i trying now to upload my final image by ftp , and i can connect whith your adress sucessfully (whith all information) ,
but the upload doesn't start , is the server is too busy now?:shrug:

[Saschi0815]

Hi mods, pls. excuse if the following question has been answered...if not, pls. do so ;) :wavey:

Is it correct to post a final image from several seperate 3d-renders which are composited in a kind of film-poster with some typo(headline etc.) or so on??? All 3ds have their milestones for every single piece... :)

ok, thats all, thanx for your time....:-)))

[gulliver3]

ok ,i'm so sorry , my upload was an great succes for now from my home and was my fault , :scream:

p.s: if i will receive an confirmation for sending , my new year will be better...

[Mibus]

and i trying now to upload my final image by ftp , and i can connect whith your adress sucessfully (whith all information) ,
but the upload doesn't start , is the server is too busy now?:shrug:
I know you fixed this, but for reference it's normally because you're behind a router or firewall and aren't using "Passive" FTP - it's an option in all FTP clients, normally disabled by default.

hi, i haven't got any instructions for the final delivery in my email... is there somewhere i can find it here or can it be resent? or hasn't it been sent yet..
As Leigh said, we'll be sending them in batches towards the end. As long as you can see your image in the "Final Image" page after you've uploaded it, you're safe :)

(If you haven't received an email by the time the challenge closes, email me at robert@ballisticmedia.net).

[PeterSanitra]

I have a realy funny question: What if i win and then I will be not available from 20.1 to end of february completly without computer or internet acces. Hm.?

:)

[The Trappist Funk]

I've been following this forum for a while, but have only just been able to get an account sorted (damn company firewalls...) - wish I could have gotten involved!

Quick question - when's the next challenge due to start?

[PeterSanitra]

will be my rating lower if my final image is for example only 2000x1500 pixels?

[gulliver3]

thank's for support Leigh and Mibus , all is ok now....
have a good year!:thumbsup:

[xeNusion]

unfortunatly i uploaded my final image but now i would like to make some smaller changes.
but as i cant login to the ftp anymore (forgot to save the adress/pass) its impossible to do something.
so it would be very nice if someone could edit my entries and delete the final images so that i can start uploading them again.
thx

[Mibus]

If you want to upload a new final image, you should be able to just follow the same steps as you did the first time - go to the "Final Image" page, enter your details. It will give you your password / filename again, and you can re-upload your work.

[xeNusion]

ok thx alot

[CptObvious]

I have a question about milestones (2d) (I'm not sure if it was already asked, didn't watched the whole thread :rolleyes:). Because of my workflow I usualy don't paint any linearts. Is it must to post all the milestones in that case ? (I posted first sketches that might be on a linearts level as concept sketches). If so, can the previous milestones be edited ?
Stupid quesions :D
Salut!

[essencedesign]

will you be alowing an extra week for ftp upload as in the machine flesh contest ?

[A3DLover]

Is it permitted to upload multiple WIPs per "milestone"?
I was going do this from my own server till I see the good reason why its
frowned on in this challenge it makes perfect sense to me.

Also is it okay to upload wips GSO wips to other galleries?

[straightforward]

I am trying to upload my last image in TIFF. format but I can't figure out how to do it. I read the instructions but I don't know where to enter to upload the image. If someone can help me.

Thanks.

[userBrian]

"Final Image - JPG (online) AND print resolution TIF (FTP) "
ok i get it.

[ArtisticVisions]

Is it permitted to upload multiple WIPs per "milestone"?Yes, I believe this is allowed; a lot of individuals (myself included) have done this with no problems.

[straightforward]

I have done the upload of my final image in TIFF. How can I find out if my upload was successful and has been received for judging?

Thanks!

[Mibus]

will you be alowing an extra week for ftp upload as in the machine flesh contest ?
We're not saying ;)

Officially, it closes at the same time as regular entries, but we are quite likely to let later entries in. It quite probably won't be a week though, aim to get your FTP entries in ASAP.

Is it permitted to upload multiple WIPs per "milestone"?
Absolutely.

I have done the upload of my final image in TIFF. How can I find out if my upload was successful and has been received for judging?
Go back to the "Submit Final Image" page you got the FTP information from. If the upload was successful, you'll see a thumbnail of your image.

I am trying to upload my last image in TIFF. format but I can't figure out how to do it. I read the instructions but I don't know where to enter to upload the image. If someone can help me.
What part are you having trouble with? Have you used FTP before? Have you seen the submit final image page?
http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/grandspaceopera/final_image.php

[camtheman]

I ended up repainting most of my final image after submitting it. Now I want to submiit my new final image and delete the first one. The FTP confirms I rewrote over the old one, but the thumbnail still shows the first and not the latest. How can I make sure the latest one gets entered??

gman

[Mibus]

I ended up repainting most of my final image after submitting it. Now I want to submiit my new final image and delete the first one. The FTP confirms I rewrote over the old one, but the thumbnail still shows the first and not the latest. How can I make sure the latest one gets entered??

You're probably seeing a cached version of your image. Try a "super refresh" when you're looking at the thumbnail. (In most browsers, you hold down the Shift key and click the refresh button).

If it still doesn't show, check that you're definately using the same filename. If you still have issues, let me know :)

[Lucent]

Hello, I have just today signed up for this site and am considerably interested in the GSO challenge. I have several ideas on hand, but I'm having trouble finding one key piece of information in any of the posts-- which is the due date of the final pieces. If someone could perhaps direct me to an appropriate thread where I may have overlooked that information I would greatly appreciate it.

[camtheman]

I tried the "super refresh" but I still see the old thumb. Is there a way to take the latest upload and use that? I'm not sure the names match, my bad...

[adel3d]

Hi,
I am finalizing my work but I have a question before I upload it.
When I finalize it with Tif format can I compress it with RAR and submit my work in your ftp.
And also can I send the jpg and the tif files together ?
Look forward to your quick response as there is not much time left.
Thanks a lot.
(Leda)

[Lunatique]

I've had problems with uploading images for the challenge since day one. The connections just keeps timing out, and I'd have to refresh/resubmit at least 30~50 times before it gets through, and it really annoys the hell out of me. This has never changed-it's always this bad, no matter what time of day, what day of the week..etc. It appears that the challenge stuff is hosted on a different server from cgtalk, because I never have problems accessing cgtalk, but the challenge pages are absolutely a nightmare for me to access. Is there an alternative for me where I can upload via a different method?

[GaeasHerald]

Hi, I've uploaded the final image through th ftp, and the thumbnail already appears on the submission page. The only thing is that the window where I uploaded the file said 10 seconds left for over an hour, then i closed it. If the thumbnail appeared, can I be sure that it got through?

[mmoir]

Hi ,

I have the same question as Gaia's Herald, I uploaded my final tiff image to the ftp site. It uploaded but the window would never close like it usually does after you upload something. The thumbnail does show up in the window. I just want to make sure you got the full sized image. By the way I really enjoyed the Challenge, it was a real learning experience. Thanks for the contest.
Mike

[Mibus]

I tried the "super refresh" but I still see the old thumb. Is there a way to take the latest upload and use that? I'm not sure the names match, my bad...
E-mail me your info (including filename(s)) and I'll take a look - robert@ballisticmedia.net

When I finalize it with Tif format can I compress it with RAR and submit my work in your ftp. No. TIFF images must be compressed using ZIP.

And also can I send the jpg and the tif files together ? Nope.

JPEGs go to the normal WIP submission page, just like you've done for all of your other milestones. TIFFs must be ZIPped and FTP'd using the instructions here:
http://cgnetworks.com/challenge/grandspaceopera/final_image.php

I've had problems with uploading images for the challenge since day one. That's no good! The server hosting the challenge WIPs is the CGNetworks server, do you have trouble browsing the rest of the site? Have you had issues uploading stuff to the hosted gallery? I should be able to upload it if you send me your JPEGs and info.

Hi, I've uploaded the final image through th ftp, and the thumbnail already appears on the submission page. The only thing is that the window where I uploaded the file said 10 seconds left for over an hour, then i closed it. If the thumbnail appeared, can I be sure that it got through?
If you can see the thumbnail, that's fine. If you don't get any confirmation emails in the next 6 days, let me know. The upload program you're using is probably just getting confused that it can't actually see the file once it's uploaded. (We disallow seeing what files are there).

6 days left! Good luck to all!

[darthmikael]

I have uploaded....(i think) the final image, there is any way to confirm that it's uploaded?
thanks a lot

[Mibus]

I have uploaded....(i think) the final image, there is any way to confirm that it's uploaded?
Just head on back to the "Final Image" page where you got the FTP information. If all went well, you should have a thumbnail of your image on the page :)

[darthmikael]

thank you, it's good to see my little thumbnail.
Now i'm more relaxed

[Skywatcher]

Hello, I have a question about entering the challenge rather late...
Some people posted to tell me that my challenge is not fair to others because I entered one week before closingtime and that my chances of getting good votes are gone ..??
For the record... I actually started last week because before I didn't have any time ( have a wife and 3 kids and a job that takes most of my time ).
I love the challenge and couldn't resist to enter ( late, I know ).
But as it worked before I thought why not try something. I had a nice concept in my head.
I never hold things back and post them later ( that would be unfair !) , what is posted is mostly
done the night before. I also try to post relevant stuff ( not 500 screenshots of the same model at different angles). People can ask what ever they want to know. And in the short time I have I try to visit as much threads as possible and give comments.
Could you please let me know what you think of this because I'm working on something and I don't know if I'm doing it right???

Thanks

Yvan

[PeterSanitra]

I totaly agree with Yvan. I also entere 2 weeks ago. Some user have 100 000 of view and thousands of post, but there is not much to view and talk about. They are mostly chit-chating and having fun, posting bananas and so on...;-)
They are many threads with only few replys, that are fantastic and can realy teach you something.
So it`s a bit unfair for those who entered lately, like me and Skywatcher.
It will be realy STUPID if you can`t win because you have started 10 days before deadline.
Anyway, working om image for three months is crazy, like most of the perfect images are done in few days.

[ArtisticVisions]

I totaly agree with Yvan. I also entere 2 weeks ago. Some user have 100 000 of view and thousands of post, but there is not much to view and talk about. They are mostly chit-chating and having fun, posting bananas and so on...;-)
They are many threads with only few replys, that are fantastic and can realy teach you something.
So it`s a bit unfair for those who entered lately, like me and Skywatcher.
It will be realy STUPID if you can`t win because you have started 10 days before deadline.
Anyway, working om image for three months is crazy, like most of the perfect images are done in few days.
The community judging (from what I understand) is not based on how many views or posts you have, but on the relevance on what you posted; a post that gives encouragement and C&C will be judged a lot higher than a post that is "chit-chating".

[camtheman]

Hello, I have a question about entering the challenge rather late...
Some people posted to tell me that my challenge is not fair to others because I entered one week before closingtime and that my chances of getting good votes are gone ..??
For the record... I actually started last week because before I didn't have any time ( have a wife and 3 kids and a job that takes most of my time ).
I love the challenge and couldn't resist to enter ( late, I know ).
But as it worked before I thought why not try something. I had a nice concept in my head.
I never hold things back and post them later ( that would be unfair !) , what is posted is mostly
done the night before. I also try to post relevant stuff ( not 500 screenshots of the same model at different angles). People can ask what ever they want to know. And in the short time I have I try to visit as much threads as possible and give comments.
Could you please let me know what you think of this because I'm working on something and I don't know if I'm doing it right???

Thanks

Yvan


I thought I'd jump in on this one because I also have a full time job as an artist and a wife and three kids, so I can relate to the time issue. In the "real" world, having months to work on an image is unheard of. I usually get a few days if I'm lucky to do a concept painting or storyboards. Entering late should not matter, the quality of work, and the relevance of communication regarding the feedback is what I believe should make a difference.

Besides, there is no wrong or right in art, you know that...burn the rule book!

Cheers :thumbsup:

[Dragonbreath]

I realize this is a bit late to ask, but could you clear up specifically what some of the milestones are? The reason I ask is because is seems I could've used some of my posts as modelling, texturing and rendering.
I understand what modelling, lighting and post effects are, but for texturing, should I have just posted a flat photoshop texture? Is rendering what you get after you have put texture and lighting on your objects?
Maybe I'm just burned out from the deadline being right around the corner, but I figured I'd ask so I don't mess something up and ruin my chances.
Thank you,
Dragonbreath

[ArtisticVisions]

Realized I had a question regarding the final Print resolution entry:
Are we suppose to apply color management to the file before we upload it? (in other words, are the entries just going to be viewed from a monitor or actually printed out using CMYK?).

Reason I'm asking is because my system uses ProPhoto for it's ICC monitor profile and unless I convert the image to sRGB, the image won't look right on other monitors that don't use ProPhoto.

[Mibus]

Are we suppose to apply color management to the file before we upload it?

It should be RGB, not CMYK.

Also, from the Ballistic Publishing site (which has the same people involved):
We will be reviewing and preparing all images on a monitor with sRGB colour response and a gamma of 2.2.

:)

[ArtisticVisions]

Ok, good; that's what I thought, but needed to make sure for certain. :)

[Lucent]

This is in response to a query in my thread, but is text allowed to be positioned in the final image as can be seen in my GSO entry here (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/6/5601/5601_1105660278_large.jpg)? Thank you for taking the time to address my question.

[Climax]

• Can I upload my final image in winrar file? :shrug:

[mmoir]

Hey , I uploaded my final image to the ftp site and I got an email saying it was successful and a link was provided to look at my entry.
There are 2 problems , the link doesn't work and the link and message say my "Machine flesh" entry was sucessful.
Did I get entered correctly into the Grand space opera I am still not sure.

Mike

[nemirc]

Hello.

I uploaded my grand space opera two days ago and today I got this message:

Dear Entrant,

Your Machineflesh entry (22228_75390.zip) has been successfully uploaded and
processed.

You can check it yourself at:
http://cgnetworks.com/challenge/machineflesh/final_image.php (http://cgnetworks.com/challenge/machineflesh/final_image.php)

Good luck;
The CGNetworks Crew.

Is it me or should that message read "grand space opera" and not "machineflesh"???

[nemirc]

Damn why mmoir's post didn't show in my "search results"... anywayz, sorry for the "double-post"

[gulliver3]

Hey , I uploaded my final image to the ftp site and I got an email saying it was successful and a link was provided to look at my entry.
There are 2 problems , the link doesn't work and the link and message say my "Machine flesh" entry was sucessful.
Did I get entered correctly into the Grand space opera I am still not sure.

Mike it's the same for me Mike , i received this e_mail this morning , it's very weird !
i'm not quiet , i wrote to Mibus and i'm waiting for an answer...:shrug:
how is possible to talk about machine flesh challenge which is finished since some months ,
when we are now in grand space opera challenge?:banghead: i can't understand it...:arteest::wip::twisted::scream:

[nemirc]

Oh my god... don't you see? the FTP sent the images into the past!!! :eek:


Sorry :rolleyes:

Anywayz, this is my guess G3: They kinda forgot to change the email notification format to show the GSO instead of machineflesh... At least it makes sense to me :shrug:

[arturro]

I have the question about the judged resolution. Highres pictures will be judged by the jury and by us? or lowres which will be uploaded in as a normal milestone? I asked and got the answer taht the on-line lowres milestones, but there are some sounds that the highres pictures are to be judged. I'm asking just to be sure(it makes difference in creating or not creating some details)

[ArtisticVisions]

• Can I upload my final image in winrar file? :shrug:
I believe they have to Zip files only, not Winrar or any other compression format.

[Falcorr]

Dear Entrant,

Your Machineflesh entry (77206_63892.zip) has been successfully uploaded and
processed.


Well atleast im not the only one suffering from that kind of error. So its a relief.:sad:

I was supposed to be send in the final 2D artwork.. Now id really like to know what happened?

Also when you check out the Grand Space Opera 2D entries they are named as 3D entries

[angel]

I totaly agree with Yvan. I also entere 2 weeks ago. Some user have 100 000 of view and thousands of post, but there is not much to view and talk about. They are mostly chit-chating and having fun, posting bananas and so on...;-)
They are many threads with only few replys, that are fantastic and can realy teach you something.
So it`s a bit unfair for those who entered lately, like me and Skywatcher.
It will be realy STUPID if you can`t win because you have started 10 days before deadline.
Anyway, working om image for three months is crazy, like most of the perfect images are done in few days.

Actually I'm the one that brought up the issue with skywatcher and want to set the record straight.

You fail to see my point. How we as a community can belive the work was actually done DURING the challenge if stuff is posted sequentialy on the last week of the challenge?

Here are just a couple of points that made me post those comments in sky's thread.

1- The rules are there for a reason, they weren't invented from thin air. One of the most important things of this contest IS community interaction and entering a contest one week before the deadline to me seems unfair for everyone else and as I said in the thread it brings up questions of legitimacy. I'm not saying that is the case with you two but that is just a reality specially when sky did the same thing in machineflesh, it appears that way. It looks like magically an image came out from nowhere. Know what I mean?

2- I personally would have benefited from sky's thread but it was late and I was done modeling my characters. Some people contacted me thanking me for the tips on cloth making. THAT is what the challenges are all about learn something, teach something is not just a make a cool image contest.

3- Having a full time job is NOT an excuse. I have a full time job and a family to attend to and I as many other people here managed somehow to enter early and interact with other people, get and give feedback and finish the challenge just fine.

Posibble solution for future challenges:

I think there could be 2 deadlines... 1 for entering the challenge and another for the actual final entry. This is just a thought. The challenge gets plugged on CGTalk front page often there should be absolutely no excuse for entering on time.

on fairness, sky started to share more shortly after my comments in his thread.

I hope no one takes this personally but at the end I think the community as a whole as well as individuals benefit from "interaction" and I belive it is extremely important weather is chit chat or not.

thanks.

[ArtisticVisions]

1- The rules are there for a reason, they weren't invented from thin air. One of the most important things of this contest IS community interaction and entering a contest one week before the deadline to me seems unfair for everyone else and as I said in the thread it brings up questions of legitimacy. I'm not saying that is the case with you two but that is just a reality specially when sky did the same thing in machineflesh, it appears that way. It looks like magically an image came out from nowhere. Know what I mean?

2- I personally would have benefited from sky's thread but it was late and I was done modeling my characters. Some people contacted me thanking me for the tips on cloth making. THAT is what the challenges are all about learn something, teach something is not just a make a cool image contest.
Totally agree with you; this Challenge has personally gotten me more involved in CG Talk and it's community, which I consider very beneficial to my growth as an artist and in CG.


3- Having a full time job is NOT an excuse. I have a full time job and a family to attend to and I as many other people here managed somehow to enter early and interact with other people, get and give feedback and finish the challenge just fine.
Also true.
EDIT: Not to imply that people hide behind their jobs or have legitimate reasons as to why they they enter late or don't finish, far from it; I, too, understand that there are times in which more important things come up or need to be taken care of over a contest (this was certainly the case when I had loads of assignments to finish for college during November-December). However, sometimes I think some people use these things as excuses when the truth is they weren't really serious about the Challenge to begin with.

[Skywatcher]

Hi, don't want to get in to a discussion here (you certainly have a point in what you say) but since you are talking about me...

1. I did enter late because I had NO TIME before ! Even now it's difficult .
2. Since you love the rules so much...the rules say also that you still can enter !!!
so what's the problem?
3. It's the second time I enter late. Right ... but it wasn't planned.
Someone told me I should enter because it worked fine for the MachineFlesh.
So I did. It's a lovely contest.
4. as of interaction with the community...I do the best I can in the short time I have
I don't hold stuff back or anything. Some things are just so obvious you don't always
think of posting them ( sorry for that ).
5. AND I CERTAINLY DON'T POST THINGS THAT I HAVE ALREADY FOR WEEKS,OR EVEN DAYS!!!
what you see comes right out of the 3D oven.
6. About the JOB. We make 3D IMAX stereo movies of +/- 40 mins. in a few months with a
small team. So I think I could say it takes most of my time and energy.
7. I'm going back to work now...to work now...aaaarghhhh

have fun:bounce:

[Squibbit]

I have a question about 3D post effects WIP :

If I feel uncommon enough to model just a sphere in 3D , then add a light
in the scene and paint the rest over the rendered image of the sphere in say
Paintshoppro , is that acceptable ?

I'm trying to understand what the post effects WIP means... is it just anything
I want to add to the finished render with a paint or photo manipulation program ??

I just had a series of wild ideas from that ... i could print the pic and as post effects
glue rocks n stuff on it ...

...I could add the pic to a photo that I took myself ? *wanders off thinking*...

PS. Don't forget to answer my main question, please

[angel]

I was using you as an example sky because that's where I posted my comments.

I realize what the rules say and that's actualy what I have a problem with. According to the rules one can enter and post all the milestones the day before the deadline and I just think that's not really fair.

On the other hand, having a full time job still is no excuse.

Oh BTW I gave you props for shearing more after my post not once but twice. :shrug:
you didn't have to make models breakdowns but you did, so once again kudos for that.:thumbsup:

later.

[userBrian]

Is the final image jpeg also supposed to be print resolution as is the Tiff?

[nemirc]

I think not... unless you can create a print resolution .JPG that is under 150Kb...

[userBrian]

Yeah, I got that, I submitted one under 150 k...thanks.

Now I am trying to figure out how to ftp the zipped tiff.
I got as far as getting the "FTP information" but don't have
a clue what to do next. The "You have not uploaded your final
FTP image. See HERE for upload information". .....Only rerouts
me back to the filesize requirements page.

I am going to try entering the challenge.cgnetworks.com address and follow the rabbit,
yeah. That goes nowhere....oh, it's a "Hostname"....hmmm....what to do next?

How to submit final to GSO

You will need *an* FTP client. Windows Explorer in XP also does a reasonable job if you have it. (You need to open an Windows Explorer window, and type "ftp://challenge.cgnetworks.com/" into the window. You'll be asked for your username and password, once it's connected you can drag your ZIP file into that window).
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Originally Posted by kaparo

-When I access to my information for uploading my image there appears a file name for my Zip file. I have to give that exact name to my zip file?


Yes. The filename for your image doesn't matter, but once you have your ZIP file, make very sure that it has the name given to you.

Some OSs hide the ".zip" part from you, so you may or may not have to include that when you rename it.

Good luck!

[Climax]

• Sorry for being Unpatient, but yesterday I submited my final pic with the procedure u asked us to follow, but I should receive a confirmation of the submit, and I haven't, I am afraid that if something went wrong i may get desqualified, this was the first time in my life I used a FTP program to upload anything, so this is the reason of my worry

• This is a very important question: Can I, once submited the Final Image, submit another version asking you to discard the old one?

[nemirc]

Hey Brian, did you manage to upload the final image?

If you click the "submit final image" link the page will ask for your user and password and then your mailing address and such ("to be used in case you win"). Then they give you the FTP server info and the filename that you have to use for your zipfile.

Climax, actually it took nearly one full day for the confirmation message to arrive. However as you can see it reads "machineflesh" not "space opera" :curious:

[gulliver3]

i'm sorry also nermick , all is ok for me now , i verified and my image was uploded succesfully...:thumbsup:

[mmoir]

Hey Nemirc,
A question , in your confirmation email did the link they gave you to your "machineflesh" entry work , could you go and see your GSO entry . The link they gave me did not work.
Mike

[nemirc]

I checked too and it worked :thumbsup:

mmoir, if you go to the challenge page and click on the "submit final image" link, login and give the info they ask you will be sent to the "ftp information page" (page number 3). In there you will see a small version of your final image, thats how you know that it worked :bounce:

[Jnieuwland]

hi Mibus,

I'm having problems connecting to the FTP server when I follow the instructions given. So let's see if I got this right:

this is the info I insert into the fields:
FTP Information

Hostname: challenge.cgnetworks.com
Username: challenge6
Password: gso6tiff
filename: 42026_63943.zip

now, is this exactly what I type, for example does my filename have to be "42026_63943.zip" or is that just an example??

and If I still can't connect is there an ulternative FTP address? or method of uploading?

thanks,

Jordan

[Climax]

• This is a very important question: Can I, once submited the Final Image, submit another version asking you to discard the old one?

• Can I? should I also Uptdate the old one in my thread? I fixed just a couple of errors...

[nemirc]

That's the exact info you put in your FTP client... and that's how you have to name your zipfile.Are you behind a firewall? Maybe that is preventing you from connecting.

[nemirc]

• Can I? should I also Uptdate the old one in my thread? I fixed just a couple of errors...

hey there Climax.

I went to the "submit final image" today (I uploaded it a couple of days ago) and I read that you can replace your image if there's a problem with it (as in wrong image). I DO NOT know if you can replace it with a "revisited version", though :shrug:

anywayz I hope you get an answer soon since we have been abandoned here :cry:

[vrf]

I was under the impression we'd be getting an e-mail with ftp instructions. We'll, about a day left and no e-mail. Did I not get on the list?

Thanks for the help.

Vance

EDIT: never mind, I see the instructions are off of the main challenge page after you click through "upload final image." Hopefully, everything will go smoothly.

[turbinea]

i have problem. i can connect to ftp but cannot upload final tiff. it says: xxxx.zip: Not a regular file. any idea where the problem is ?

EDIT: now i found that i cannot upload zip file, but i CAN upload tiff file itself. is that way it should be done? in my instruction is specificaly mentioned i have to use zip. what now?