Grand Space Opera 3D Entry: Martin Sen

[Virtuoso]

Hey there Martin.....................Looks like I get to be first in welcoming you............This has potential over the top does'nt it? I will be locked onto your entry,and looking forward to high end work for sure.All the best and may high poly counts go with you.........:arteest: :beer:

[RhyderKey]

YOYOYOYOYO i am happy to see i here again, i was wondering if u would enter, cant wait to see some of ur work again, well best of luck (dont think u need it tho)

i am sure we will see a

http://www.cgnetworks.com/cgtalk/choiceaward/trophy_badge.jpg

under ur name soon

[Versiden]

heyomg!! a new challenge

not sure if I can even finish this one, but I'm definately in!

rough idea of what I had so far:
-----------------------------------
future humans have progressed in technology that they are now utlising the sun as their main source of power. However over the years, the sun's radiation has become unstable, so structures/force fields were erected around the sun to protect earth and existing planets. The structures/forcefields not only keep the sun's radiation at bay, but also channel the rays safely to distribute power.

Enemies of earth see this as an obvious attack - to destroy the systems in place around the sun - we fry .. lol
so.. a battle ensues .. a big one.. the Battle to save the Sun


------------------------------------

rough ideas.. just thought I get this posted ..
Not sure how original this idea is ... or if it's been done, I haven't watched every sci-fi out there ;p

more ideas to follow or improve

good luck to all

[rattlesnake]

hi mate...first i want to say good luck to you....and second: i think your idea is sweet!...i can imagine that battle..it will be great art piece for sure....
ill be watching your steps man!:thumbsup:

[joe_morgan]

I enjoyed the progression of your Machineflesh submission, and can't wait to see what you come up with here! I like the idea. But wouldn't it be more efficient to build a force-field around just the planets whose ozones can't filter out the radiation? It's hard to imagine the undertaking of creating a containment/power-leeching field to encompass the entire sun. But I suppose that's kinda the point huh? The granduer of it's awe-striking immensity. This Idea makes me think of the beams holding up the dark tower in Stephen King's Dark Tower book series (awesome in my opinion). I'm not going to wish you luck, cause you got skill! Much more effective than luck.

Peace:thumbsup:

[arLutiK]

Good Luck :thumbsup:

Love your idea, can't wait to see it

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098357522_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098357522_large.jpg)

very rough sketch of another idea. A band of soldiers taking cover against a shot down fighter. In the background there's more fighters engaging in battle.

[Lemog]

When I saw this sketch... I think this project will be great... like the past one... Wellcome back Martin... and still show us awesome pictures... good luck man :thumbsup:

[gpepper]

Nice sketch !

[madshooter]

Hi versiden, Very nice sketch and a promising concept.:)

[arLutiK]

cool battle scene

[Virtuoso]

Wild and wicked Mayhem...................A space opera coming this way fast martin.Looking nice.:cool:

[BookMansBlues]

Great sketch! can't wait to see some progress.

[oshiroii]

Really nice concept. I love the characters, they're not really detailed right now, but I love them being there. Organics! :p

[Versiden]

hey guys,

thx for comments, much appreciated!

Right now working on some spaceship designs.. so even tho I don't go with the sketch idea I can still use the spaceships in the scene. I think I prefer the ground battle better over the space scene.

now off to my daily does of Bleach Manga ... oh ye!

[peterlalic]

Nice concept.
I like it because it shows much of the background story.

[Saschi0815]

....Hi Martin, great to see u in ...and wow, u did a nice concept, man!

Way cool, your idea with the ground battle, 'cause imho it's more difficult to bring in a epic feeling than in space scenes (space is just epic;-)).
As seen in your MF Entry I know u will do a great piece of work here...:buttrock:

Looking forward to see more of your concept sketches - they are really nice, mainly the charakters in the foreground...

Go on like that, dude:beer:

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098543415_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098543415_large.jpg)

...

[gpepper]

Reminds me the spaceship of Galactica ! Cool !

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098543737_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098543737_large.jpg)

concept for a small fighter ship.. very simple design but I quite like it.
Hopefully nothing looks like it since there so many designs out thr.. or I hope so since I've started modelling ..

more uploads coming..

[cg219]

I really like your Concept. Nice battle scene. The Ship looks good too. Where will the guns be?

[Versiden]

Reminds me the spaceship of Galactica ! Cool ! what, are u kidding? I've never seen Galactica ;(

I really like your Concept. Nice battle scene. The Ship looks good too. Where will the guns be? the guns will be on the sides on the wing, and in the front of the nose.. can't see it from the sketch, but modelling is coming.

[gpepper]

http://www.battlestargalactica.com/Gallery/index.html

This was my favourite TV soap !

[Versiden]

hmm.. you're right.. it kinda does have similarities..
argh .. what to do.. ;(
I was gonna give it red stripes too ..

I'm going to finish it in any case ...

thx gpepper ;p

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098566623_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098566623_large.jpg)

the model as it is so far... still have to do the guns etc.

comments welcome ;p

[gpepper]

Forget about what I've said !
Your ship is great... If you look all the spaceship in the contest a lot of them have similarities with Star Wars, Homeworld, Stargate's spaceships

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098620291_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098620291_large.jpg)

started greebling the rear engines.. man it's alot of work! it's harder than I thought, but it's looking ok so far. Still need to tweak the pipes I think, they're sticking out too much.

cheers

[JamesMK]

I'd say you should leave the pipes just the way they are... to boldly transport lots of fuel. That aside, the initial concept is promising - a classic showdown, sci-fi style :thumbsup:

May your own cheese flow in the proper direction!

[BookMansBlues]

Sweet model bro!

[chadtheartist]

Yeah, it's going to be hard to design something that won't look like Star Wars, Star Trek, Babylon 5, etc... It's not that it's impossible, it's just that we're so infused with the space concept that it will be hard to break that mold. So I wouldn't worry about your ship looking like something else. You designed it, and it looks pretty good to me!

Keep it up!

[LucianoBerutti]

very nice sketch , very fast modeling. I like it ! good luck

[RobertJ]

started greebling the rear engines.. man it's alot of work! it's harder than I thought, but it's looking ok so far. Still need to tweak the pipes I think, they're sticking out too much.

cheersAs it strikes me, usually the rear-end of a spacecraft like this one or a large spaceship for that matter is the most interesting part of the whole vessel.

As long i am not behind it when you hit the gas-pedal.

[stevetwist]

It's looking cool IMHO. The detail on the rear is coming along nicely, I think it wont have its full effect until textured, but for the model it looks damn nice. I agree with JamesMK's comment about the pipes - they look fine to me.

The only bit I would pick up on is the main engine itself. Everything else seems detailed, ut the main engine is very flat etc. - maybe you could add some additional detail to the outside of it.

Other than that, sweet job.

[Aethyrprime]

Very nice sketching and modeling...:bounce: going to have so serious competition here. You might try drawing back a bit using an extreme field of view perspective effect to show more of the ships overhead such as a large carrier or frigate coming down behind the initial smaller craft with motion blurring on either the foreground or background depending on which you deem to be the most central point in the piece. I would also contemplate using an array of these bad-@$$ small ships you designed being deployed from the carrier at an extreme distance so they only look like little triangles. Anyway, just a suggestion, great job so far keep it up!

[Shardana]

hey!! you have a very cool concept and I love the modelling!!
the rear of the ship is really awesome!! good luck!!! :thumbsup:

[Virtuoso]

Looking very nice Martin........Slow down there,give the rest of us a chance to get into some modeling too...........;) Mayhem,epic battle,very nice start on the modeling.I look forward to more great work from you.Keep at it hard.Looking very nice...............:arteest:

[rattlesnake]

hi ...really nice modeling mate!...i hope all those great details dont make your scene too heavy...maybe u can use a texture instead all that geometry...but it maybe it looks much more nice the way it is...well ill be here to see more nice stuff man!...cya:wavey:

[Saschi0815]

Very nice Martin, the details are great so far! ...and think of Rattlesnakes advice about using a texture than modelled structures. I've done this "mistake" :scream: in the last machineflesh contest, my PC produced one failure after failure :banghead: ....

...but I know u will do it right and look forward to see more of your cooool stuff...

cya mate:beer:

[gpepper]

Eh ! cool ! nice modeling !

[madshooter]

Nice deatils so far, very nice model.
Waiting for more rocking updates:thumbsup:

[Versiden]

hiya, thx for the support..

JamesMK - sweet, thx.. more cheese to come ;p

chadtheartist - thx alot, it's very encouraging to hear! It's going to be hard to come up with something new but that's where the challenge lies.

RobertJ - ye, I put alot more effort in the rear, since in the concept sketch the rear is shown. I'm going to add more detail to it in the coming weeks.

stevetwist - ye I'll work on it, I planned to put the engine detail in the textures itself, with grooves and tiny bots/plates etc, updates to come

||) |V| |^| - I'll put some simple geometry placements to get the overall feel for the scene and play around with camera angles.

rattlesnake, Saschi0815 - ye you're right, I think for the smaller ships that are airbourne I'll use a texture instead, coz you won't even be able too see the details from that distance from ground level.

BookMansBlues, luciano berutt, oblivionblack, Virtuoso, gpepper,madshooter - thx for stopping by! more updates coming

[pinnamraj]

really good concepts and sketches..


and great job on the modeling front too.

http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=180333

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098737410_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098737410_large.jpg)

created some textures to see how it would look. The striped pattern inspired from Anakin skywalkers ship in the Clone wars cartoons.

Not too happy with the shader as it is atm, but I'm going to leave for now. So it's still WIP, looks like a toy ;(

Suggestions welcome.

[Steveyola]

Its battle star galaticaish to the max.real nice work though.Like where your headed.I quess evrything will have it's influences.Good stuff still.:thumbsup:

[gpepper]

Looks great ! very cool colors !

[Kaksht]

The textures are just awesome!:thumbsup:

[Versiden]

Its battle star galaticaish to the max.real nice work though.Like where your headed.I quess evrything will have it's influences.Good stuff still.:thumbsup:
heya.. I'm not sure if they even airred battlestar galactica over here, but I've never seen it, only until gpepper showed me a link. I see the similarities in the paint job vinyls, oh well.

[Virtuoso]

Looking sharp martin,really nice texture work "ALREADY"....whats in the water over there,it's got you jumping up to light speed.Modeling and now textures are coming out smooth and in the high end district.Keep it at light speed......:arteest:

[oshiroii]

Sweet model. Textures look nice too, really like the color combinations. Waiting to see more :thumbsup:

[WyattHarris]

It's sickening how good that looks. I does have a toy look right now, but once you get complete textures and proper lighting it'll likely be fine.

[WazaR]

Awesome model...

but I hate to be a nit picker, but man o man it is SSSOOO battle star galatica! If this is the intent then you have hit the nail on the head. Execllent work with the texturing and teh lighting. Needless to say it is a very nice design for a small figther ship.

I was thinking of what final composition ideas you have. What role will this fighter play?

Keep it up.

[DimitrisLiatsos]

....in any case i like it ...And it has great colors and it's wider on the X-axis than the Galactica fighters...me thinks...keep it up man.....good stuff :bounce:

[adr]

Nice stuff versiden the model looks quiete good ,really like the textures that you put on the fighter

Keep the good work:)

[Pentagramma]

Cool and fun ship!
Really love those strong colors - they give the craft an edge. Maybe what´s making it look a little like a toy is the absence of specular mapping... you should give different shades of specularity to each plate. You also could give it burned areas, points with bruised paint, etc, but it´s up to you.

Anyway, so far it´s great! Keep it going!

:thumbsup:

[JamesMK]

I guess a small fighter will eventually have to appear to be influenced from somewhere - it looks very good to me at any rate. You've got a great start on the 'damaged' textures... just keep scratching... maybe add some small dents and burnmarks from.... cigarettes... er... yes... Make a black and white furry dice hanging from the rearview mirror too! Or one of those dancing Elvis dolls on the dashboard.

[Aethyrprime]

:eek: wow I get lost in max for just a little bit and look what you come out with, sheesh, hehe! :applause:

[madshooter]

Your quick textures look like final textures to me:) . very nice texturing, good colours.:thumbsup:

[darthmikael]

Thanks for your comments, I have reviewed your work, and as you posted the detail add so much life to the models, so they don't see like paper pieces. You must think for this as if you were to create all this within a studio, and start to think as a designer. Put some pieces here and there, but search a background story for all the elements so that way you can make some more realistic touches to all your work.

[Tremoside]

Hi Martin,

Great moddel and nice textures also! Push it man!!! Aweseome stuffs around the ship's back.

Have a nice day(night)!

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098906332_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1098906332_large.jpg)

working on another idea..

here's a rough sketch, the concept idea is sortof based on the bibical tale of Noah's Ark. The idea is a group of humans that have found a lush planet to live on. So they have started deployment of their dropships to land (in the sky according to my crude sketch ;)

the couple in the sketch is still WIP, I think I will incorporate more characters into the ground team. But so far... I have the leader or pioneer, holding a probe that has come back with data saying that the planet is suitable to live on. The probe is a play on the white dove that came back to Noah.

I like this idea, since it is more peaceful, as opposed to the violence and mayhem. I like the idea of the leaves falling in front of the camera too.
The pink leaves are kinda like the cherry blossom trees in Japan.

Does it fall in line with the brief.. hmm.. tough one. Atm, I think it focuses too much on characters (since only 2), but I'm going to add more and build on this. I think it does represent an important moment in history.

ye, I know the sketch sucks.. but comments very welcome on the idea..

thx again ;p

[Texamosix]

This idea isn't bad, but I think you're first one was much more interesting. Maybe you should detail this sketch a little more so we can see more what you want to create.

I like your first ship too, especially the colors. Keep up the good work!

[Lemog]

Personnaly... I prefer the new idea... because it's more sensitive... maybe more original... if I understand all details you want to do...

Now, you must do the best choice... sorry :bounce:

[stevetwist]

I have to say I think the second idea is more original. But the first idea is good too and I think it wouldn't really matter which you chose.

So I'd chose the one you feel you can do the best, or that you feel is the best idea.

[Rex3d]

I like your second idea as well. Both are good, but the second one would be a departure from what a lot of folks (myself included) are going for.

[pigwater]

hey martin .. i like the second idea .. well , i like em both

i know what you mean about all the death and destruction & almost went for peaceful too .. i think it fits within the scope ... both seem more thought invoked though then just blowing evrything up

i like the emotions your putting behind em

[madshooter]

I like both of your ideas, now it is up to you on which one your are going ahead.

[3doid]

hey great concept drawings and modeling job... i liked the detail in ur modelin... keep going buddy... i'll b waiting for more soon :thumbsup:

[cg219]

Nice concept. I like the ship so far, its looking good. I think it needs a bit more dirtier look to get rid of that toyish look. Also maybe a bit of noise in the color map. Good Luck.

[Virtuoso]

Hi Martin........................While I like your first idea quite a bit,I must say I would go with this new rendition....................It can be a very pivotal moment by showcasing your characters emotions.There intial feelings on this momentous landing.This "IS" a historical point in this planets existence,and the new inhabitants................Yes a pivotal moment.................I think your sketch is far from Sucking as you pointed out,it is actually very nice.I like the idea,it has alot of promise.Japanese cherry blossom trees are beautiful I agree there as well 100%.............:arteest:

Nice,and I wish you luck on your final thoughts of which way to go,I hope my input helps some.All the best as always.............:beer:

[Versiden]

hmm.. I think im leaning towards the 2nd sketch idea also .. since it has more meaning. The first concept I couldn't establish a purpoes, it was going to be just mindless eyecandy.

Hmm, going to be tough.. not too sure how to do hair - opacity mapped planes? hmm x2

I've been doing simulations with reactor's cloth, with unsatisfactory results.. I will do more research

in the mean time, I will be working on dropships and trees. The tree leaves I think i'll use particles.

[BookMansBlues]

yeah I do have to say the second concept (to me) just seems right. It's Kinda got that 30's-40's almost pop art kinda style like somthing outta dick tracy or an add for a post war suburb in the late 40's after WW2.

[DarrinH]

Hmmm... I like the second one too.
It has empathy (I think is the correct word) and is definately a major event in the planet/civilizations history...

Just some support for a fellow Safrican.

[stevetwist]

Versiden I know where you're coming from. It's difficult to chose a concept without thinking of the technical difficulties that go along with it (e.g. hair). However, when I'm coming up with ideas, I generally don't even think about what I can and can't neccessarily do, as I feel this restricts my thoughts. I would normally come up with my ideas, and then try and find a way to do them - and if all else fails, scrap the idea (but this can be costly if a lot of work has gone into it - normally another solution can be found, in this case they could be bald and or wearing head garments of sorts).

[JamesMK]

The technical difficulties are part of the challenge, mate! Push yourself... if you're not sure how to make hair, then by all means go for the concept that requires it - that will force you to learn it :wip: I'll be hanging around here waiting for an alpha version :thumbsup:

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099149483_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099149483_large.jpg)

finally got off my lazy ass ;p

the sketches so far for the dropship...

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099331612_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099331612_large.jpg)

here's the dropship modelling so far (sucks to have a day job sometimes)

looking really clean, the detail is going to be in the texture work. Haven't modelled the back engines yet... still to come.

kinda looking like a big bus.. ;p

[madshooter]

Hey I like this dropship model. It is a very clean, neat model.:thumbsup:

[stevetwist]

Looks sweet,

only comment is that it looks like a hovercraft vehicle rather than one that flies up high, but I'm sure once it's put into context it'll look fine.

[Virtuoso]

It's a nice design,and a nice start on the modeling.....It has that "retro futuristic look" martin,a more warm appeal in my opinion than most ships out there..........I like the path your on,keep on course,looking good,really good.:arteest:

[GaNNEl]

Hah hah LOL! Big bus? :D Yeah when I first looked at it it seemed to be a bus :p , but then I saw the little compartment in the lower part, and now I can see a dropship there... Keep it up! want to see more updates! :thumbsup:

[DarrinH]

Very nice design and are those four "gills/ribs" borrowed from Chrysler or Mercedes. :)
It will help a lot to get scale once the textures are on. Things can look deceptive without size comparisons. Like scratches etc...
Keep working at it and as for the day job.. skip lunch - but try not to feint on your keyboard.
:thumbsup:

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099594220_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099594220_large.jpg)

started on the tree for my scenery...

started the base of the tree with box modelling. The center branches I extruded, then used the twist modifier to get the look I wanted.

that's the start of it.. atm im adding more and more branches. It will look more lush when the leaves are on.

[JamesMK]

Very promising start on the tree. Looks nice and twisted... The dropship (bus) actually struck me as looking a bit like an ornamented toaster from the 50's :D I can imagine it with a red candygloss paintjob and chromed details. It would rock!

[Aethyrprime]

Simply fantastic. I am proud of you. You have come up with a very mature and epically themed piece. Mindless eyecandy is great, but emotional content is the ticket to the word epic. Sometimes, you can capture epic by using soft lens or subtle poses, suggestive imagery, scattered objects with written things, using a focal length increase and moving the camera low and right on your main target with a full spectrum of view into the heavens. This artwork you are working on now, is on that ticket. Bravo!!

:wise::thumbsup::bounce::deal::applause::buttrock:

[madshooter]

hey, nice update, I like this tree model.:thumbsup:

[Lemog]

I like too this style for trees... true graphic and clean... more man !!! :bounce:

[DimitrisLiatsos]

Me also thinks that SHIP and TREE look cool .... just an idea ..i u want to brake the bus look u say in your ship ,,,make the back thrusters REALLY BIG...lol ...just a thought...:thumbsup:

[stevetwist]

Awesome tree - all the branches twisting round and getting entanlged! Sweeeeet.

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099685476_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099685476_large.jpg)

added more branches - painful stuff..
I think uv unwrapping this thing will take a year!

I can always add more branches later.. going to start some particle tests

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099686604_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099686604_large.jpg)

modelled 2 variations of branches with 3 different shapes of leaves to be used as instanced geometery for the PArray

[rattlesnake]

hi...i really like your modeling. is very clean...about your ship maybe needs more little details like little stairs for boarding or little doors...or somethig to make it look bigger...cos the scale could make it look like a toy ....i think that if u add these little details the realism can increase....
the tree is looking nice man...looking forward to see how it ends ;)

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099688589_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1099688589_large.jpg)

here's a test render - I think it turned out quite well for my first attempt on a tree ;p

I cloned the top branches from the main mesh to be used as a particle emitter.
I then set those branches as non-renderable in the object properties.

There's 2 PArrays, one for each branch cluster that I modelled..

The shadows I need to work on, need to figure out how to make the shadows pink where light hits the leaves..

Going to add more branches tomorrow, so the tree will look more fuller, but it's looking alright for now ;p

thx for the comments rattlesnake.. I'm going to tweak the dropship more, so that's not the final model as it stands.

c/c always welcome.

[MattGyver]

Nice. Very nice. Must say, I'm impressed. I've been trying to do some trees for my entry and I think my brain's about to pop trying to get them to look good. :banghead: Really like the coloring on your leaves as well.

[Virtuoso]

Alright martin.......Beautiful and serene......A scene with this can only go very well.I like the whole direction and the idea,I am really interested in seeing this evolve,as I know your idea and then skill level will make this a wonderful entry.......Sometimes I wonder just how great a project a few of us here in the challenge could come up with while working as one.......A combo of 10 guys or so,it would be something real interesting and special I think...............Ok keep the art rolling,it's looking smooth and sleek.............:cool:

[madshooter]

"Sometimes I wonder just how great a project a few of us here in the challenge could come up with while working as one.......A combo of 10 guys or so,it would be something real interesting and special", virtuoso: Man if this thing happens please give me also a chance to be a part of your team.:)

Versiden: Tree is looking really cool with those leaves on it.
Rocking:thumbsup:

[Jaba153]

supa cool technik 4 the tree! nice modellingvery impressive:cool:

[cg219]

That tree is looking very good. This is suuch a great learning process, I just learned a great technique to make trees :D. Anyway, I agree with rattlesnake about the detail. I think its a modelers best tool. Also about your shadow problem, I think you can achieve the pink shadows using caustics or maybe a translucent material for the leaves. Well thats my two cents. Keep up the good work, cant wait to see more.

[asela]

good stuff

i realy like the spaceship render u posted very pofessional
carry on

[stevetwist]

Looking great - brilliant way of using a particle emmiter to generate the leaves also - genius!

[GaNNEl]

:eek: !!! A DropShip and a particle tree... This is getting interresting! I liked a lot the tree! Speacially the way it's branches are produced, I work with particle systems too, and this is really creative! Keep it up! :thumbsup:

[oshiroii]

sweet looking tree model man! This is getting really intresting :D

[Aethyrprime]

Sometimes I wonder just how great a project a few of us here in the challenge could come up with while working as one.......A combo of 10 guys or so,it would be something real interesting and special I think...............


My friend I think you just hit the nail on the head. I am down for that idea big time. Perhaps the next challenge should be group challenges. (maybe only letting 1 prior winner in each group might make the challenge more fair tho... ;) )

I am writing a theme song to go with my entry its mood music... hehe.

[DimitrisLiatsos]

Amazing..the tree is absolutely amazing....:bounce:

[Lemog]

yes... very beautiful look for this tree... so cool and so japanese... :wise:

[gpepper]

Nice, I love the style of your tree, as anyone says, a real japanese look like !

[darthmikael]

Thank you for you comments on my thread. I have used to rig Espino PUPPETSHOP, I don't have any money to buy CAT and character studio it's cool but you can do fastest rigs and almost any kind of characters with PUPPETSHOP, and the best IT'S FREE!!

Thanks
Miguel Salinas

[Saschi0815]

Hi Martin, puuuhh so much threads, but yours is really one of the most creative here.:thumbsup: Have seen your tree and what can I say: It's stunning awesome, my friend.:buttrock:

Keep on playing the ball, mate!

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100353327_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100353327_large.jpg)

seems ages since I've last updated... busy running around, hopefully things have settled!

reworked the dropship model a bit more. The wing still wip... will come back to it later. Interior of the ship is not complete, atm it's just a hole and not very detailed. I think it's a big improvement from version1. As usual I'll leave things and then come back with it with fresh eyes so I can critic and improve.

I will start on the human designs and get those up..

c/c always welcome .. laters

[hhssuu]

HI, your concepts very different in style and i like it. And your models of vechicles are alsome man.

[d-tox]

looks great man:thumbsup:
keep it up

[Virtuoso]

Looking really nice martin,as I expected it would..........I think a touch more added detail eventually,and then of course come texture time this will really shape up to be something special........I think alot of your plan/concept here,and thus far you are on target for a grand entry.......:arteest:

[keetmun]

Nice ship and nice tree! Though I must say that the leaves look a little too curved, as in the countour of the leave surfaces. Otherwise everything else is fantastic! Cheers!
:buttrock:

[SUN]

:thumbsup: Your work is incredible! I love it:thumbsup:

[Lemog]

Always beautiful man... :thumbsup:

[stevetwist]

The detail you have put in so far is incredible! I love the little door on the side, beautifly crafted. But then again, so is the front - that's awesome! And the details near the engine.

This model kicks a$$!

[Versiden]

hola

thx for the comments everyone

the dropship is going to probably be one of the main focus points, so I'm going to add more detail. But for now I'm going to give it a rest, and improve it later.

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100438556_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100438556_large.jpg)

sketch for the technician type guy that I want in the background. They will be moving equipment out of the dropship, and running tests on the ground, and generally doing techie type stuff.. lol

simple uniform, but I think it looks cool..not sure where my inpiration was.. maybe batman beyond, I dunno ;p

updates to come

[stevetwist]

Looks awesome - keep up the amazing work.

[JamesMK]

Very very good sketch. Love that sideways row of buttons on his neck, and the helmet/headwear looks really good.... I could imagine parts of it being made from some soft material, like an old-time aviators' leather cap.

[Saschi0815]

Hi Martin, cool concept sketches u got here:thumbsup: ...and a very nice ship - it reminds me a little bit of a VW-Bus from the seventies:thumbsup: The front....

Awesome as always, Martin, keep it up! Cheers:beer:

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100543879_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100543879_large.jpg)

started the ground work for a human form, just getting shapes. I actually don't have a human model in my library so this would be really useful in the future

not going to make it too detailed since clothes will cover up everything. Focusing on the exposed parts like the head neck areas and hands.

[Aethyrprime]

looking good my man! I can't wait till you get farther along the modeling of the characters to see the detail work of your models. :)

[stevetwist]

Looks great - only slight comment, and it might just be my eyes, but are the upper thighs a little too bulky compared to the rest of the person's build??

V. good modelling all the same, can't wait to see how you tackle the face.

[terraarc]

Very good work an all your elements! Really like the dropship and the way the tree turns out!:thumbsup: Keep it up! Head for the human and back again to the dropship (really like take on the workflow too!)

Waiting for updates! :bounce:

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100636008_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100636008_large.jpg)

small update, but still was a bit of work ;p

usually I work from the top down when doing a model, but for some reason I'm detailing boots ;p

Going to add a little more detail in the creases in the pants where the knee pad is. Then going to add more clothing.

l8rz

[WazaR]

Just thinking,... if the resolution for this image is going to be around 3000+ pixels,... your figure will be VERY big, considering that he will be in the foreground. At that kind of resolution, you would need ALOT of detail on a character.

Your model lots fine, but Im thiniking that for a foreground character it is missing detail.

[rattlesnake]

hi mate...is looking nice this model...i really like the boots..but i think the foot is too small...maybe is just me so dont worry too much...
im working also in human modeling...i wish u luck in yours...now we are sharing that experience...i need to add a male model to my library too!!
keep rocking friend!

[Versiden]

hola

thx rattlesnake... ye, working on the head is tougher than I thought. It's the thing that can make or break your character. So far it looks ok, if it's an ungly person .. lol, but I want slighty more attractive ppl in my final (sad isn't it)

the boots I'll come back to once everything is done, and I can look at it as a whole. Thx for the comments.

WazaR, um, which detailing is lacking? The body or the boots? I think it's pointless detailing the body too much since it's covered by clothes.. right now I'm close to just deleting the body mesh and just leave the head and arms.. hehe.. thx for comments tho.

JamesMK - ye, I had the same idea in mind, it's going to be a soft, cotten padding strapped around his head for protection, and some head-gear on top

terraarc, stevetwist, ||) |V| |^|, Saschi0815, Lemog, SUN - thx guys, thx for stopping by, updates coming

[Virtuoso]

On to bodies Martin..........Then back to the vessels and other things eh........We are like windshield wipers are'nt we.....;) ...................I like your modeling alot.Looks real nice.I think there really is no need to go over board with a body if it will be covered in the end,unless it's more practice you want or another reel piece you want to add...............The boots look real nice,I like them......I also think you should add size to them go a bit over board,but that's the realistic toon guy in me talking.......You probably want more realstic,so you do your thing Martin........................I like your work,it's always done in top fashion,and this is no exception.....You know I'll be looking for more updates,until then keep at it strong,I think this will be one Hell of a final.......:cool: :buttrock:

[terraarc]

Nice "walking boots" :). The shape looks fine so far up until the knee, there is getting some more boxy-looking, I think this way up needs some more curves.
The foot does look a little small as rattlesnake mentioned.
Waiting for the "head"...or eeerrr.....a ship......or aaaaa.....a tree maybe?
(I really like your workflow did I mention that?) :bounce:

[stevetwist]

I have to agree - the boots them selves look awesome - but the legs do look a little boxy (but like you say, if they're gonna be covered in clothes it's not so important).

Good luck - looking forward to further updates.

[young_927]

i really like your design of you spaceships~

nice render of your models~

[overcontrast]

looking good man... u got some kick ass action concepts, yeah this what its all about... keeo it up man... :thumbsup:

[Saschi0815]

...these boots are made for walking...***sing***

very, very nice,Martin!:thumbsup: Looking forward to see updates of the char....is going terrific, man!

[KOryH]

Fantastic stuff Martin.
yes, great minds and all. I think both of our can co-exsist just fine.
I cant wait to see that tree rendered!

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100887192_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100887192_large.jpg)

head progress so far.....

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100887371_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100887371_large.jpg)

head model, man I could tweak this thing forever and never finish...

still need to detail the neck, then going to add the head-gear.

comments welcome

ciao

[Walrusmann]

thats coming out good man i think all your work on it is going to pay off. cant wait to see the head gear keep it up

[linda]

This is looking realy great this far. best wishes and good luck!

[KOryH]

good looking head. however he has too much face foe his skull.
the eyes are typically in the center of the skull. the nose halfway between the eyes and the chin and the mouth splits the difference.
If you don't give enough forhead to a character it makes them look a little on the dumb side.
the expressiveness and size of the eyes also comes into play as well as the space between the nose and the mouth. But this is really more for styled or cartoonish characters.
I would stick with the classic proportions. Most people seem to respond well to the Greek Ideal.

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100892831_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1100892831_large.jpg)

small update..

Kory, good suggestions.. thx!

I've tweaked the eyes a little - closer towards the center, and increased the forehead area.. thx for the crits..

the lower lip I tweaked slighty..

[Sharga]

Wow, for someone who has a hard time with heads, you're sure doing a nice job! It looks quite real to me.

[Virtuoso]

Hard time with heads......Yah right....:p .......Looks like you got it in the spot on territory martin.......Looking nice,shapes and proportions are right.............when I see him I think of two things.....One being I want to pull and tweak him into a caricature realistic toon type......the other is don't touch him,he is ready as a human................Looking good,keep it in the fast lane Martin.............:arteest: :cool:

[rattlesnake]

hi friend...im here to see the show!!
the head is going nice...can i make some suggestions?

1.- the fore head needs to be pulled to the back a bit

and thats all....u know im also having some tuff time with my head modeling so i cant make too much crits...but if i see something more i tell ya ok?
maybe u can pull the nose area to the front...but im not the best head modeler (of course im not)...

ill be watching u man!

[stevetwist]

Looking awesome!

What technique did you use to model the head?? I'd really be interested to know.

[Versiden]

heya

thanks for the crits all.. really appreciate it!!
trying to pick up again, weekends u intend to work, but then going out with friends sounds better.. hehe

stevetwist, I use box modelling for everything.

l8rs

[keetmun]

Nice head! I can see the muscle definition everywhere. Although I feel the ears could be a bit bigger, looks a little too small right now...

Love to see more!
:buttrock:

[terraarc]

Just came back from a weekend with friends too! :)

Stopping by to say BRAVO! Great work on the head! :thumbsup:

Happy weekdays working- hours and maybe late-hours!

:beer:

[Tremoside]

Hi Martin,

Congrats for this job! Allthough i think those ears are a bit small, but everithing else is OK for me. Best luck and push it hard!!
ups before i forget.. some muscles of the neck are missing...
Probably these crits could be useful. Im sure your work will be a superious piece, just as your Machineflesh entry was.
Keep it up!
Tremo

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101157405_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101157405_large.jpg)

wire...

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101157593_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101157593_large.jpg)

the progress so far..
still need to add the microphone, then going to detail the clothing, adding buttons and creases.

My simulation tests with reactor cloth and simcloth yielded really unsuccessful results.. so, instead of wasting time, I'm just going to model the creases.

I think I'm behind schedule.. loads of modelling still to do, and then texturing.... 3 months.. are they insane? and over the Christmas period..

doh...

c/c welcome ;p
ciao

[Versiden]

heya..

thx for the support all, Walrusmann, linda, Sharga, Virtuoso, stevetwist, keetmun, terraarc

KOryH, thx again for the crits

rattlesnake, thx dude.. I pulled it slightly back... dunno if it's noticable ;p

Tremoside, dude.. why aren't u in the challenge .. hehe.. ciao

I suck at keeping track ;( .. thx again for the support

[rattlesnake]

i love the head phones ...u put good atention to details and it looks really nice...your character is comming great together...good work my friend!..ill keep watching you!:buttrock:

[essencedesign]

Looking great so far versiden...going to look extra spectacular after textures...your well on your way...so get back to work danM iT.... :argh: :buttrock:

[Lemog]

... always great progress here... I hope to see quickly the technician done... that's a lot of work... courage :thumbsup:

[pseudonympending]

Top quality modelling. The only thing that bugs me is that his head seems to lack the appropriate depth. I appreciate that the sharpness and angle of human features, particularly the nose, can vary massively across the world, but I it still looks like the head could almost do with a good stretch in the x/z axis whatever his ethnic background. Although having said this the eyes and mouth look fine, I reckon the skull iteself needs to be deeper.

Anyhow, forgive me, I'm just nit-picking. Damn good stuff, loof forward to seeing it textured.
Dave.

[terraarc]

Really like the way you're "heading" mate :thumbsup:
Agree at the point mentioned by Swamps, I also think a little stretching would work fine.
Also agree with all the above :

"Great work there !!" and a "keep it up" too!

Waiting for more!
:beer:

[Tremoside]

Hi Martin,

just relax mate...I will come around december "coming soon" title is already on.
till that I keep all my eyes opened,
Tremo

[stevetwist]

Looks awesome - I love the progress on this guy - he rocks! Looking forward to the small additions to come (microphone etc.).

[JamesMK]

Looks really really good, with believable features :thumbsup: I have a strong urge to put the head in an FFD deformer and pull it out rather much though, along the Z... Come to think of it, that's probably what Swamps said too :D

[Virtuoso]

Hi Martin................I expect some very fine modeling from you.....And you are not dissapointing me.......You have a very nice plan here,and with your skill set are accomplishing your plan very well...........I dig your work,it's interesting and always well done......You can see the effort,and see the talent behind it.......Keep it fast as can be on that fastlane.......Looking very nice,keep cool.................:arteest: :cool:

[Versiden]

thx for the support :)

rattlesnake, essencedesign, Lemog, stevetwist, Virtuoso... thx dudes... I'm glad I haven't bought HL2 yet, otherwise I'd totally neglect his challenge. I'm going to try and finish this character this week, then onto landscape modelling, then more character modelling (women, baby, main character, more technicians), and mothership modelling, and omg.. am I gonna finish?

Swamps, JamesMK... having trouble picturing the suggestions, if I pull it in Z then it would make the head longer right? .. I'll post the left and front viewports of the head tonight and draw some arrows or something to see if I'm on the right wavelength here .. thx for the crits - appreciate it

terraarc, no pun intended huh? hehe

Tremoside - can't wait ;p .. entering Decemeber - I gotta say, that's brave considering the deadline

[ARSA]

very clean model indeed... can you show the front wire, it will help me understand better. There is something bothering me about this head, and I think I can talk better if I see the front wite.

- cheers!

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101330804_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101330804_large.jpg)

views of head ... these are my front and left viewports...

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101331042_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101331042_large.jpg)

views with the head gear added on

hmm, I think it looks ok, but then again I have 5 more heads to model.. if I can manage that, with the variety of characters.

haven't been able to work on it tonight - family has owned my computer for their entertainment and movies.. doh!

ciao

[stevetwist]

Odd - I personally can't see what the other guys are getting at with this stretch in Z thing. I can't see a scale problem with the head (But I might be being blind).

So, I'd say it's a pretty cool model, but you may want to look to see what it looks like when you scale it in the different axis.

[Lemog]

This new wire head is good for me... I'm waiting a little render of it but that agree me... good job :thumbsup:

[terraarc]

The head alone looks great, I suppose that scale problem was a visual trick based on the cloth under the head, it made the guy look neck-less. Anyway, I think the head is OK, way to detailed too!! :)

Keep your "head(s)" up! (with five more chars you really should, another pun for you!)

:bounce::bounce:

[Virtuoso]

Keep bringing it Martin.......These models are quite nice,the quantity is matched by the quality........Clean mesh,nice extras,and the overall plan here is a very nice one.I like your direction,keep this up,this will be an entry for you to be proud of......:arteest: :cool:

[arturro]

Yeah! Cool stuff! I like the concept, especially the way the figures are located and their poses. I can give you now only one piece of advice. I think it would be good to add a small microphone to the technican connected to the helmet, and maybe some folding device for one eye(hope you get what I mean...)
Nice work, keep it rollin' :bounce:

[Aethyrprime]

so far so good. The updates to the character meshes are nice. I can't wait to see those get finished and textured. Provided your stylizing an all, should make them look hot!

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101450898_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1101450898_large.jpg)

finished his outer jacket. Took a while longer since it was asymmetrical..

c/c welcome

[Sharga]

Looks very nice, you did great on the folds! Man, I need to improve my box-modeling techniques! Are you going to add laces in the holes on the outer jacket? I only ask because it looks like the purpose of the holes are to be able to tighten up the neck of the jacket for added warmth in a cold and windy place.

[Lemog]

Genial... I adore this jacket... where is it possible to buy a same one for my Rapid'Dragon Pilots ? :thumbsup:

[rattlesnake]

ohh...the folds on the jacket looks really natural mate...thats good!.. the desing of the jacket make it look really confortable...i want one like that this xmas...nice progress..

[Nazirull]

Nice Costume designing Martin!

I think yeah, it would go well as the pilot for Lemog's Rapid Dragon!:bounce:

[JamesMK]

Jacket looks perfect. Can't come up with any crits at all in fact... just :applause: and move on to the next part :D

[terraarc]

Just awsome Versiden! :thumbsup:

Keep up the great work!
:beer:

[Virtuoso]

Very nice design martin........I like the flow and unique "Un-equal sides to it as well,nice collar too,.......Cool look,very clean modeling.Smooth.Keep it going strong,your doing a very nice job.........:arteest:

[Versiden]

heya..

Sharga, good spot - I was thinking that too.. I'm in two minds in changing them into buttons, or keeping the rings, and having strings running across between them. Time will tell...

Lemog, rattlesnake, maranello55 - lol, thx.. wouldn't mind having this thing in my warddrobe too ;p

JamesMK, terraarc, Virtuoso - thx alot - always glad to have support..

[artemesia66]

Coming along nicely Martin. This is my first time on your thread, and I reallly like your concept--it's peaceful, and character driven. and it looks like your modelling is going to bring it to life beautifully. Your tree is fabulous. The one thing that I noticed about the head before you dressed him is that the ears were too small and too high. You probably don't want to change that, since he's dressed, and the helmet hides it anyway, but since you have other characters to do...

Anyway, keep it going. :thumbsup:

[Lelantos]

Great model of the charachter i like very much the clothes on this charachter
Story idea and concept is very good can't wait to see more of this.
Keep them coming:bounce:

[Aethyrprime]

Fantastic designs Martin. Your modeling on the chracters clothing is exceptional. I love the realism of the cloth. Great work man, keep it up!

[Saschi0815]

Hi Martin, great update u've done here...!:thumbsup: Pls. excuse, but I have no crits for you...simply looks perfect to me so far...can't await to see the other parts...:bounce:

[macoD]

Thank you. Your model is great too

[ace4016]

Cool character you have there, and a nice jacket to go with him. Only one thing, the collar of the jacket looks kind of stiff like leather but the chest area looks like wool or cotton with the creases like that, could just be me.

[Climax]

• This is my first visit to your thread and I am very impressed! your modeling is awsome! and the story seems interesting, Well job so far, I'll come more frecuently! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[mr_carl]

Verry good modeling, the jacket looks verry nice :applause:

Keep upp the good work.

Carl.

[mmoir]

Martin,

Just looked at your thread, very nice modeling on your character . The only thing I noticed was the ear was rather small but it is covered anyways so it doesn't matter . I like your initial sketches as well.
Looking forward to the textureing of this.
Mike
My GSO entry
http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=180886

[Versiden]

hiya, thx for the support..

mmoir,artemesia66 - yup.. guess they are a bit small, but I actually know a few freaks with abnormally small ears... haha, ok this model is not based on them. Anyway, I'm not too concerned since it is covered up. But for the other models I'll address it - thx ;p

ace4016, thx.. good to have crits, I'll keep it in mind...

mr_carl, Climax, macoD, Saschi0815, ||) |V| |^|, Lelantos - really glad you like it so far, hopefully will have this guy ready for another update. Freelance work has kept me quite busy for the last few days, so I'm hoping to get on this full speed till Jan.

[SnakeFarlow]

Hey looks great, I dont know if I colud do that kind of modeling people to my work, Do you know any website where i could find a tutorial for humanoid shapes an faces, for 3Dmax. If you do, please send me the link.

I am having a loot of fun with this contest.

You could take a look of my work and give me some advices. I will apreciate that. www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=184160&highlight=andres+paredes (http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=184160&highlight=andres+paredes)

Thanks.

Sanake Farlow. The rogue.

[essencedesign]

Good to see your progress...you are a very tallented modeler, and I am sure the textures will be just as QualitY :buttrock: ....keep it up ...tick..tick...tick... :banghead:

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102012044_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102012044_large.jpg)

update ... it's been a while ;p

rigging has started... I'm using Puppetshop, great tool and it's free!
Only thing is I cannot figure out the finger rig...

modelling - completed the shirt sleeves and pants..

That gap in the shadow - can't explain it.. strange!

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102012156_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102012156_large.jpg)

morph targets... coming to life.. I hated the static gaze.

hmm, does he look asian to anyone?
lol

more updates coming

ciao

[adr]

Great model Versiden , the custom is great with a nice design, he has a nice pose . Good work man , lets wait for the textures :thumbsup:

[essencedesign]

A VERY strong looking character there...alot of life in those eyes...and that's without textures....oh and I found your lost shadow ...it's right here. :deal:

[angel]

Love your character Versiden. The clothes look very nice.

[Virtuoso]

Yes down with static gazes Martin.......Some emotion really helps.well done.I like the overall flow,nice details,really well done.keep at it,loking very nice...........:arteest:

[DimitrisLiatsos]

Yup!...now that u started working on his morph targets he is coming to life...i like very much the design on your character :) ( i also get a wild kick with your ship but that's old news ..u know this :) )

[keetmun]

Cool emotion! He looks like he's saying: what you looking at...! Plain cool!

Cheers
:buttrock:

[darthmikael]

Hello, I hope that this mini tutorial help you on the use of puppetshop and some rigging process for the hand.
I use reaction manager because it's more easy than wiring, and don't use too much memory. As first step you must put a custom attribute for each part that you want to rig or control. In this case I put one custom attribute to the hand as a reference for the finger.
http://www.filmsfx.net/tutor/Step-1.jpg

then in the reaction manager add a master object, in this case the object where you put your custom attribute, and point the selection to the custom attribute.
http://www.filmsfx.net/tutor/Step-2.jpg

now we check local the axis for the rotation that you want to use, in this case, was Y , so i select now all the bones that I want to be involved for the motion. Into the reaction manager press add selected and choose the rotation axis as I describe in the picture. Note that the layer is animation and euler XYZ.
http://www.filmsfx.net/tutor/Step-3.jpg

Automatically the reaction manager creates an initial state for your rig. Now press CREATE MODE and give to your custom attribute the maximum value, and rotate each bone on the axis that you selected. When you have finished to rotate all the bones, just press the arrow (set state) and you will have one state fro the fingers rolled.
http://www.filmsfx.net/tutor/Step-4.jpg

Now deselect or deactivate the button CREATE MODE and now you have a full working rig for a finger. You can add as much boneas or objects or parameters as you want, but you must be sure what things are you linking or your rigg won't work.
http://www.filmsfx.net/tutor/Step-5.jpg

This is a feature only for max 7. If you want more info I suggest you to check the help on MAX7. Thanks and don't forget to visit my thread
http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?threadid=180766

Thanks
Miguel Salinas
aka darthmikael

[Versiden]

Hiya darthmikael - AWESOME DUDE..
thanks alot for helping out - greatly appreciated, and I'm sure it will help alot for other users that don't know.

I was hoping for puppetshop to have it built in, hopefully it will come with later versions.

I'm not using max7, so I don't have the reaction manager - it looks alot easier and faster than my method...

I'll post it anyway for those on max5/6

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102061491_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102061491_large.jpg)

finger rig for max5/6

The method I've been using for a while - based on the video tutorial by cgart I think.. I will post the link if I can find it.

--

1. Add a Attribute holder modifier to the hand. You can find this under the modifier tab (if it isn't there, close max.. and copy the script file from Scripts/PluginScripts/ to the plugins directory)

2. With the hand still selected, goto Animation/Add Custom Attribute. And input the details in the window shown. I've chosen a range of 0-10 for this example. Add Attribute to "Object's Current Modifier"

[rattlesnake]

hey...he do have some asian look for me...
the complete modeling looks really nice mate...i like how it turned out...great work...once u rig the finger this friend will look very alive!!

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102061621_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102061621_large.jpg)


3. When u click add, you can find your custom attribute in the attribute holder.. and we'll use these controls for the finger rig

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102061773_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102061773_large.jpg)

4. select the finger, goto Motion tab and assign a controller to the fingers Y rotation

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102061870_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102061870_large.jpg)

5. the reactor paramters window, click "react to" and click the hand which contains the Custom Attribue we added earlier.
goto Modified Object ->Attribue Holder ->Custom Attributes ->Index Finger

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102062092_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102062092_large.jpg)

keep the reactor window open

select your hand, and move the finger spinner down to 10 (max value)

then click Create reaction, and move the State value up or down until you're satisfied with the position for that finger value

Done - if you move the index finger spinner up or down, the bone should move .

That's my long winded method, and u have to apply for all the bones of the fingers. You can also add custom attribues to spread the fingers

[stevetwist]

Woah, your character ROCKS!

As for the lost shadow.... is you character made up of different models? If so then maybe one of your models has had the cast shadows property turned off in its properties (I think it's either "visible to shadows" or something in the properties config).

[terraarc]

Pretty nice asian (for sure) character! :thumbsup:

Rigging tutorial and progress looks good, the tutorial looks explanatory enough (didn't read it yet, is this something I can do with max 6 too? Sorry but don't know....)

Waiting for more... :)

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102112824_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102112824_large.jpg)

concept sketch for the Ark flying high up in the distance..
it will be very far away from the camera

The shape I was after was almost like a boat luxury cruiser, or the ark looking boat in the Noah tale...

I think I may redo the dropship, again - this will be version3. ;p

[DimitrisLiatsos]

Really like the design of your ship man...u will be starting on this soon?...wanna see this :bounce:

[Versiden]

hey thx Dimitri.. will start tomorrow.. for now I need sleep.. hehe
thx again for the support.. cheers

[ace4016]

Thats a nice concept. I cant wait to see that in 3d. Looks massive.

[Lemog]

Well man... I love this design... it make me feel to a luxury space train... The Trans Space Express maybe... I'm waiting the modeling now... :thumbsup:

[stevetwist]

The design looks cool - will look even better in 3d - can't wait!

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102176271_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102176271_large.jpg)

the modelling so far...

c/c welcome..

[essencedesign]

Very majestic feel to your ARC...i love how you incorpiratied the subtle curve into the main body of the ship...very true to your concept. Thank you for taking the time to teach us all a little bit about your rigging pipeline.....keep it up :applause: :applause:

[artemesia66]

love the ark. looks massive and detailed at the same time. very nice. :thumbsup:

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102237020_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102237020_large.jpg)

quite happy with the model so far.. most of the other details are going to be textured. Since it's far from the camera I'm not going to go crazy on the model.

[DimitrisLiatsos]

...well it looks so cool that i would recomend to u after this Challenge to work on it and make a scene with it ...it really looks cool basically cuase of the simple but elegant shape it has..:thumbsup:

[3D-ima Green]

woah guys! u waste alotta time drawing sketches arent you?

maybe thats too late to say, but welcome to the challenge

i see some very good artistic work here, impressive keep it on style dude
good work! :thumbsup:

[overcontrast]

nice modeling man... i like ur ship design.. it looks very efficient..keep up the ogood works man, cant wait to c these ships textured...good luck :thumbsup:

[terraarc]

The "Ark" ship looks interesting...waiting for your thoughts on textures of this one....:arteest:

[Lemog]

I adore it... always too good for me... :thumbsup: maybe it's the futuric version of my old Omniship... no ? :D

[Versiden]

DimitrisLiatsos, lol.. yeah.. I actually have another idea for GSO, but it's too late.. maybe will work on it after the challenge and have this Ship more detailed up close.

3D-ima Green, sketches rule.. hehe ;p I can't work without a clear vision of what I'm doing.

overcontrast, terraarc, Lemog - thx for the feedback, much appreciated. I'm quite happy with the way it came out.

--
right now tweaking the old dropship to make the design more similar to the Ark. Right now I think the style isn't on the same page.

[Virtuoso]

I dont know Martin.................I think a difference is a good idea.......Possibly some symbols can be the same.some extra artifacts?Also I think you should give this guy a more detailed look,Not just for the challenge "Money shot" but for your portfolio later down the road......You can always stick some lower detailed versions in the scene for those far BG shots,but have a more detailed out one for that reel/portfolio........Textures will probably be the kicker for you on this guy anyways as you mentioned.......Either way,you got another real fine entry,it's got a unique idea to back it,and the execution is spot on......:arteest: :cool:

[Kragh]

Hi

You have some very good designs in here...I want your most resent ship, would fit in my concept very much....(how much$?)...:thumbsup:

Your tree is awesome, an evil shape in contrast to the beatiful leaves...great!
There has been some focus on your characters head, mainly around ears, depth and race.
First of all, if you walk on a street, I´ll bet you´ll find some strange proportions in the real world in less than 5 min.
Anyway, this is a pure theoretical speach; The ears(not that they´ll show but still) is smaller than average. The reason this might look strange is because the details in the ear is rather thin as well. The thickness of the ear details (I hope you get what I mean) is pretty much the same for small ears and large ears. But again, I bet this ear is out there in the real world.
The head is asian, well not intirely, more like an indian, a evolutionary developed asian guy in america. Put some long hair, and a couple of feathers on his head, and you are there...:). And asian people seems to have less depth in the scull. Like this(a scull in profile); (), ( ). But I tend to agree with "swamps"(David Marsch), if this had been a guy from, let us say, Germany. The main reason he´s not intirely asian is the size of his nose and jaw.
I think he´s a great model, mainly because he´s not perfect in proportions...none of us is.
(Well maybe Halle Berry...uhm:))

Keep on the good work, very inspirering indeed.:thumbsup:

[rattlesnake]

i didnt like the sketch...but now i see the model i think is very amazing man!
cool modeling ...youre always very precise when modeling...no crits now...just enjoying the show

[Aethyrprime]

Dude I love that ship. Wanna put it into a game ;) I got one for it! That is bad ass man. Great job!

[JamesMK]

The shape of that ark is indeed very interesting... for some reason it reminds me of a coffin, and the idea of such a huge coffin drifting around in space is very appealing. Top notch.

[Versiden]

Virtuoso - thanks for your thoughts.. although over the last few weeks the design hasn't been sitting too well with me. I need to be confortable with it as the dropship will take up alot of the canvas and overall it's the first thing you'll see. I think the changes I'm putting forth will be an improvement.

Kragh, lol thanks.. maybe I'll see some models over turbosquid, but they accept paypal only and SA isn't accepted by paypal.. doh! Interesting comments on the head study.

rattlesnake, ye, the sketch's perspective looked very crooked when I scanned it in. On paper it looked ok. Glad you liked the result in 3d

||) |V| |^|, thanks dude.. glad to hear:)

JamesMK, lol.. that's a rather morbid approach.. actually I was going for the idea of "hope". On a side note, I was going to do a "sister" image to accompany this image after the challenge. It would be all twisted and evil to run parrallel with this image, instead of the arrival - it would be a departure.. but the world they are leaving is now ruined because humans just can't help themselvs.. As agent Smith said.. "humans are a virus"

[GaNNEl]

Hey man! Nice work! I was a little busy, but now I'll be around... Keep your good work! :buttrock: I like the Asian dude and your ship! :thumbsup:

[Versiden]

http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102541761_medium.jpg (http://www.cgnetworks.com/challenge/entries/7/4202/4202_1102541761_large.jpg)

just a quick update to show the direction I'm headed...

more tweaking on the dropship..
the obvious changes are the front windows and new wing design. Still working out thw wing area - it's not final as it is now.

will need to work on the interior and landing gears.. and hopefully it's done!

I know it's looking quite 'rough'.. the render is at 0 interations atm.

c/c welcome

[Lemog]

This one seem more simple but have a simpathic look... I think with more details and good textures... that's perfect... go on man :bounce:

[rattlesnake]

wow...this ship is looking very nice!!...very good job mate!!

[essencedesign]

I agree with christmas man above....excelent use of localized detail for a overal great final look...I likey... :thumbsup:

[Lelantos]

this is great job love all the concepts and your modelling is awesome cant wait for more
the vegatation you made is awesome :bowdown:

keep it up :thumbsup:

[terraarc]

The Dropship looks good! It looks really solid. :thumbsup:
Adding some nice textures will pop up more out of it. An idea: Because it's a dropship, it gets really close to ground so a nice touch would be a hard plate on the lower front of it to absorb any impact with obstacles branches, rocks....etc...


Nothing to crit, just waiting for more...

:wavey:

[GaNNEl]

Nice Dropship! It looks like it can handle lots of soldiers and maybe tanks. No critics here.

[Eagle_e7]

Awesome work, your designs are very good!

I like your Machine Flesh entry very much aswell. :)

[jamacsween]

Hi there,

The drop ship looks really great and love the detail work on the aft end in front of th emoter. Very nice indeed.

Look forward to seeing some really dirty textures on it!!

JA

[ace4016]

Dropship v3 looks great, its consistent with the big ship. Are you going to just scrap the other two versions, just curious? I like this version better but the front looks a bit to simplistic, juss my 2/100.

[Versiden]

terraarc, thx.. I was thinking the same.. a large surfaced landing gear for the front of the ship.

Eagle_e7, sweet! appreciate it.. I'd hoped to get a h.mention for the MF, *sigh*

ace4016.. thx for the comments, I don't like I'm going to use the previous designs for this final image.

Lemog, rattlesnake, essencedesign, Lelantos, GaNNEl, jamacsween - thx for the positive support.. always welcome. I think I'm a bit behind schedule as I still have loads of modelling ahead, hope I can finish in time!

[Virtuoso]

Looking really nice again martin........dont worry you wont be the only one still modeling and going at it fastlane style........Keep it going strong as you are,I'll be working alonside you and will be looking for more all the time......:arteest: :arteest:

[ARSA]

Wow! very stylish your design, I like it alot. My only critic, and this is a personal taste...

The engine is too small, you can add some more sense of power. I mean, this is like a cargo ship. This needs power to move from one place to another as fast as it can. (they alway go slow for some reason) Because they are always heavy!

- Cheers!

[overcontrast]

hey that ship is looking really great man... great work as usual... keep it up...ur under my microscope :thumbsup:

[Aethyrprime]

Great ship I love the details around the door. Very nice updates.

[DimitrisLiatsos]

Oh man...this dropship drops my jaw... :scream: Very neat design :thumbsup: