Shirow fan clip?

[Monolith]

Explain it a little bit more plz.

[softdistortion]

Thanks for the interest Monolith....Well, you know all those Star Wars fan movies being made....What about doing a CG scene from one of Shirow's Manga?

[UberMaximus]

Yes....

Masamune Shirow is the master......

What do u want to do?

[softdistortion]

You are very astute in your observation on Mr. Shirow's work. ;)

I would like to get some motivated talent together to do a short CG animation of one or two of his Appleseed pages. There are some great sequences that would work well. The story boarding is already done for us! :-)

Also, If you or anyone else reading this post have, or know of anyone who has already modeled some of the characters, post info here or email...maybe we can get them to donate the works to speed this project up!

[softdistortion]

Page missing

[Shinova]

Are those two from the second Ghost in the Shell manga?

[softdistortion]

nope, they are from the 4 part Appleseed manga. :)

[softdistortion]

bump*
no one taking a nibble on this idea ??

[UberMaximus]

Yeah, Im keen again.....
Ill look up some references this weekend and maybe model a fuchikoma.....

[Shinova]

Originally posted by tessalated
Yeah, Im keen again.....
Ill look up some references this weekend and maybe model a fuchikoma.....

That'd be BADASS.:thumbsup:

[softdistortion]

Thanks Tessalated, great to have you on board! Shinova, you gonna join in too? Once we get something growing, I'll put up a web page/gallery to post any of the team's images and collab. files. BTW, what SW/fileformat you use/prefer?

PS: Not that I mean to nitpick, but the fuchikoma is part of Shirow's "Ghost in the Shell" series. Appleseed contains different characters and vehicles etc. Either way, it would be fun to mix the sets together too. :applause:

[Monolith]

@ softdistortion:
You know... I hate these kind of Gallerys...
You just can't download all the pictures at once with programs like FlashGet but there is one think that made me laugh about it...
You can see what pictures are viewed the most and shirow118 is the winner and i think it's not because there are any mechas in there ;)

Maybe i can support you guys a bit with mechas but first i have to get back to my old mood after the stress with my current model...

I prefer *.max but i suck at skinning so *.3ds would be fine too.

[softdistortion]

Yeah, I know what you mean. I hesitated to even put the link up and will probably pull it shortly. Though doing a CG scene like that would likely garner the heaviest viewer traffic. :p

Anyway...would love to have you on the team. Let me know when your re-charged enough to get involved with this project. , You can model or do whatever you feel comfortable with.

[UberMaximus]

I use Maya. So .OBJ .ma .mb .DXF are cool with me.

Sorry I thought I saw a fuchicoma in one of the panels.

Ive got the graphic novel of Appleseed Book 4 so Ill try and find something else better suiting.

[softdistortion]

Hey np, actually, your post got me thinking about eventually taking the best of Shirow and mixing them together into an original scene. Fuchikomas are definitely among the best mechs imo. ;)

Thanks for file info, works for me too!

If you have book 4 let me know what scenes you think we should consider using as a guide.

[softdistortion]

Here is one scene I will suggest to get things rolling.
Multiple angles of the hover ship for reference.

Scene>
http://www.softdistortion.com/appleseed hoverscene.jpg

Reference1>
http://softdistortion.com/appleseed hoverside.jpg

Reference2>
http://softdistortion.com/appleseed hoverangles.jpg

© respective owners

[softdistortion]

Here is another action panel that may be worth considering.

http://softdistortion.com/appleseedbk4.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Ive started modelling one of the troop carriers from the Reference posts.

Those chainguns remind me of dominion... and those two cats :drool:

[softdistortion]

It may be interesting to do a scene as a flash file with text bubbles that have rollover voice and sound fx attached.?:hmm:

[softdistortion]

Musta just missed you tonite....:p
Dominion was cool ....more stuff to put in the mix?

You gonna do the whole model, or you want some help. Or I can texture if you like. Or I'll try to start the ESWAT guys?;)



Originally posted by tessalated
Ive started modelling one of the troop carriers from the Reference posts.

Those chainguns remind me of dominion... and those two cats :drool:

[Kid-Mesh]

I might be interested in helping with this depending on how serious it is. I model and animate using Maya so that is where my contribution would come from.

Just a few questions:

1. Is this going to be photo-real or cel shaded?

2. Is this going to be an animation? and if so how long is it going to be?

3. Is this going to be a still 3D sequence right out of the manga?

4. Where are you with it right now?

5. What is your timeline? milestones? etc etc...


-KM

[UberMaximus]

Had to move house, + 2 days off sick. This is all Ive come up with so far.

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render1.jpg

Im going to hit it hard this weekend so it should be finished.

I was hoping for a sort of photo real look???

[UberMaximus]

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render2.jpg
Another update. Anyone else doing anything?

[UberMaximus]

One more render b4 bed.

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render3.jpg

[Kid-Mesh]

Thats looking real good so far :thumbsup:



-KM

[igorsandman]

Hi
I'm a big fan of Shirow too, but I'm new with 3d and I won't be of any help. "then why do you reply to this post, you f*@ko?" I hear you ask. Well... If this clip gets to be done I would be very pleased (honored) to compose the music score to it. That's a thing I'm quite good at. Check my web site (see url in my sig) to d/l a few mp3. If you're interested, contact me by e-mail -> brunobidon@hotmail.com
I'd be glad to take part in that project.
See you dudes.
-IS-

[UberMaximus]

Your stuff sounds funky... Softdistortion started this thread so I s'pose we'll have to ask him, but I like it.

Where is Soft?

[softdistortion]

Hey guys! Sorry for lack of contact...was away for a bit, so you can imagaine what a surprise I had on returning to check for posts and to see all the activity on this project.

Tessalated, What can I say? WOW! and WOW! :eek: Awesome work, I love it!!
:thumbsup:

Now, to business and replying to your posts.

*Tessalated- Thanks for the amazing work...nothing much else I can add except, let us know if you need/want help with it. Also, I have the tail gun pod section modelled if you want it.

*Kid Mesh- Thanks for your interest and for letting me know what SW you use. Would love to have you on board, and Hope you will join us :-)

Now, Just a few answers:

1. Is this going to be photo-real or cel shaded?

I would like the initial renders to be a "stylized" photo-real project, and not celshaded.

2. Is this going to be an animation? and if so how long is it going to be?
3. Is this going to be a still 3D sequence right out of the manga?
4. Where are you with it right now?

I'll answer these three together: At first we will aim for a still of the panel I have posted as a suggestion. Tessalated has already nearly completed the ship. I am planning to offer our recreation as a flash file possibly with some animated elements as well as sound FX rollovers within the panel. Once we complete this recreation we can do a full CG animation. Likely length for initial sequence = 10-15 sec teaser.
I would eventually like to see our team recreate other scenes (see posts> 2D panel above)and create an inventory of Shirow recreations that we would use in stills and animation that combine our favourite Shirow elements into a MEGA CLIP!:eek:


5. What is your timeline? milestones? etc etc...

-Timeline is flexible, but I would like to have the still done before end of year.
- Milestones As follows> Models complete//Teaxturing//Scenestaging//FX//compositing,post,etc. as required.

*Igor Sandman- Thanks for your kind offer. Had a listen to your music, and I think it would fit well. I'll have a closer listen to the rest of the tracks ASAP. If you hve some ideas for a theme that could accompany the still we are now working on, please bounce them of us here.



Anyone else wishing to contribute please list your weapons and skills. You can shout out if you feel capable of handling part or whole of any of the above mentioned Milestones. Don't be discouraged if you end up feeling you bit off more than you can chew....just let the team know and help is on the way!;-)


Thanks again to all for your great response, and especially to Tessalated for his hard work!

That's all for now...I hope to have a project webpage up tonite if possible!

[softdistortion]

We still need this character and weapon>

Reference 1>
http://softdistortion.com/ESWAT-panel.jpg

Reference 2>
http://softdistortion.com/ESWAT-panel-2.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Ill grab that tail section of you Soft, can u export a .obj or .ma/.mb or something.... What are you using. Send it to

adam@jiltedreality.com

[softdistortion]

Version1.0 of the ShirowProject (http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject.php) is up. It's big, so you have to wait a bit for it to load. ;)


*team members info yet to be added

[igorsandman]

It's coming along nicely, Softdisto
I'm working on a first test. I'll do a dreamy part and an energic part. I like dreamy themes on action scenes (like in avalon or GitS movies). Once I've got both energic and dreamy, you can see if you want to use one or the other, or maybe both.

One last thing, my website is beeing updated. It should be ready in a couple of hours. Since I have storage issues, there won't be as many titles available. Only ten tracks.
See you.
-IS-

ps: nice website. And my name is on it when I connect! I love stardom! hehe.

[Kid-Mesh]

Softdistortion: nice webby....

Just so that there isnt any confusion, I wanted to come aboard as a riggor/animator (primary) and non organic modeler (secondary).

So I may not be of any use until you actually start the film portion of it. But I still want to be on the team regardless.

-KM

[igorsandman]

Here's a first test for the music.
http://users.skynet.be/igorsandman/shirow project.mp3
I'm realy not too sure about what to think of it. I didn't wanted to post it, but maybe you'll like. Anyways, your crits will help me to know where you want me to go with that score. And yeah... Talking about criticism, never fear to hurt me, dudes. Only truth makes you go further.
See you.
-IS-

[softdistortion]

*Sandman - I like your idea >contrasting airy music against action sequences .... I listened to the clip you posted.
You obviously had little time between your offer and delivery of this first clip, so extra kudos on your speed.
I like what you've done (especially, again, the contrast of real instruments with the synthetic elements)and want you to stay with it!
Follow your initial instinct and lets see where it goes.:thumbsup:

*Kid Mesh- I'm very happy to have you on the team! You are definitely needed for any rigging/animation.
If you feel comfortable handling some non organic modelling and have the time, we need the goggles, breather
and rifle modelled for the human part of the still we are working on.
Anyone other viewers that would like to give it a try are welcome as well. I am going to try to give some time to the goggle this weekend.

Large References>
http://softdistortion.com/weneed1.jpg

Thanks guys, your response is awesome... also glad you like the webpage. Hope Tessalated likes it too! :-)
I'll add you all to the team "STARDOM" :) section ASAP. Let me know any info you want included.

[UberMaximus]

Yeah me likes the webpage....
Ill post an update later today.

[softdistortion]

Hey Tess, glad you likey! ;)
Sorry for that pathetic gunpod .obj I sent last nite. After I mailed it I was hoping it got lost in eMail space before you saw it. Trash it if you havent already. :)

I'll check your post later. meanwhile here is what I have on the goggles so far. Rubber face mould needs more work. Then the buckle and strap still to do

http://softdistortion.com/gogglesv1.jpg

[igorsandman]

Hey,
I'm glad you like it so far, softdisto. I'll keep on looking that way.
For the information on the "stradom" section (I want royalties on the name of that section hehe;)), just use the info you see in my profile here at cgtalk. I don't need anything else.
To the other, your comments are welcome on the music test I made.
Thanx.
-IS-

[softdistortion]

Hey Sandman, the royalty cheque is in the mail! ;)

I haven't got to the members page yet, cause I been busy on the goggles and also got sidetracked working on version 2 of the main webpage with more Shirow art. Hope to deliver new pages at somewhat regular intervals. :-)

The goggle model is pretty well finished except for texturing. I'll start the breather next.

http://softdistortion.com/gogglesv2.jpg

[softdistortion]

Breather mostly done.
http://softdistortion.com/gogglesv3.jpg

[softdistortion]

Had to leave it for a bit, but still had time for a Head cover attempt>
http://softdistortion.com/gogglesv4.jpg

[Kid-Mesh]

looking real good man :thumbsup:



-KM

[UberMaximus]

Thats looking heaps cool Soft.

I was given a playstation 1, so ive been looking at the cinematics of the Ghost in the Shell game for some texture reference.

Ive finally worked out how these ships land.

http://www.jiltedreality.com/Shirow.jpg

Not much of an update, but I can see this drifting through the skies ready to unload its payload of Cybernetic death squads.

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render4_shopped.jpg

Got a bit side tracked, hopefully post with some decent updates soon.

[igorsandman]

Nice models you did both of you, tessalated and Softdistorion
keep it up.
-IS-

[UberMaximus]

Ive designed a little mechanism for the landing gears.. I dont want to tread on your toes KidMesh, but i thought it might make it easier for you to animate later if i build this into it at this point.

..and yes i will fix the scale of the stairs. SWAT team cant shoot straight if they've got stars flying around their heads.

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render5.jpg

[Kid-Mesh]

No treading on the toes here :) .... it looks great so far, when your ready we can hook up and work out the particulars and I can do a quick animation of itl


Keep up the good work....


Igor:

Nice job on the track man, Im really liking it. I compose scores as well but I do mainly "High Energy" & "Industrial"....Im not intrested in doing tracks for the project so no worries here :D but here is an "High Energy" track I made yesterday...check it out when you have time. I have a motif board, seq, etc etc....

Kid Mesh Track (http://www.madmotion.net/tracks/velvetcushions.zip)


Just in case if your wondering who "Big Ha" is...thats me :) ...its a long story.




-KM

[softdistortion]

This team is Awesome!
Thanks for helping energize things to this level so quickly Guys.....We are moving at a super pace due to some great talent and motivation going on here. Lets keep this team STOKED UP!

*Tess-Model is Looking great!Thanks for your positive comments on my model and for posting the extra (crucial) refrence shot of the ship. Is that bk4 also? I musta missed it :-) Keep up the excellent work!
The PS1 GITS game you mention does have some of the nicest cut scene clips IMO.....need some quick fingers to get all the scenes unlocked to see them :p
Here's a taste for those who may be wondering what we're talking about. Clip1 - quicktime/2.4megs (http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/gits1.mov)
(slightly edited/compressed for size.... etc)

*Mesh- Listened to your clip. really like your stuff too!
Sandman is in charge of track creation for this scene. I would love to get the three of us working together on another track sometime...

Could you also give serious thought to doing some modelling on the items we still need rifle maybe? Tess is working so fast you may be busy animating before you even get to any models though. ;)

*Sandman- Thanks for comments. hope the track is going well too!

[igorsandman]

Login...

kid mesh -> your track is interesting. I like the fact it's melodic while still noisy. Neat!
Softdisto -> Thanx for the GitS clip.
Tessaleted -> you're fast!

Logoff...

-IS-

[softdistortion]

More parts on ESWAT guy.

Tess- I can't stop looking at your ship model :scream:
Sandman-NP
KMesh- Just wondering, is that cool loop music on your webpage your creation too? Also, I didn't mean to sound negative about your possibly contributing music when I said sandman is in charge of sound creation....I should leave it open to him. He may enjoy your collab on this current project track too.

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswat1.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Thats Choice Soft...
Looking real good.
Glad you like the ship.

[dodo3d]

hi to all

really nice and promising project ...
I think I can help if u need me
I had a try here with the weapone but I need a better referance image for it ..
I think I can help with the mechanical stuff or the enviroment or any non organic things...
hope u like it (I know that's still so wip but it just a try)
http://dodo.homestead.com/files/weapone.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Looks good dodo. Is there going to be the butt on the end?

[Kid-Mesh]

Softdistortion:

Yeah that track on my (one page webby) is mine as well. Im currently redesigning the site so it wont be available for a while. But since for this project im interested in animation and non organic modeling maybe we should just let Igor do the music since that was the only thing he really expressed interest in. I dont want to put my hands into everything if you know what I mean :)

BTW, your model is shaping up nicely.

dodo3D: That gun is looking awesome dude

-KM

[softdistortion]

Welcome to the team Dodo3d! That model of yours looks like an accurate reproduction to me. Very nice! You obviously have the skills- your help with mechanical, non organic modelling will be greatly appreciated.

Here are some more references, although it seems there are a few variations in design. So I'll leave it up to you to decide on which you do, or do a couple if you like. The most difference is between the pump shot you are doing and the fat barrel rifle style.

Reference1>
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/rifle1.jpg

Reference2>
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/rifle2.jpg

Reference3>
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/rifle3.jpg

[softdistortion]

More references>

Reference4>
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/rifle4.jpg

Reference5>
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/rifle5.jpg

[softdistortion]

*Mesh- NP.... Didn't want to stifle any of your creative energy by being bosy :-) . BTW very cool track I like it a lot! Look forward to seeing more of your site. Already looks very promising.

Glad you like my models progress.......... I am thinking I should redo The chest and shoulder armour.

[softdistortion]

hey Tess, found that reference you posted in bk 4..
found another with some landing gear detail (not suggesting that you add it unless you want) and a good relative size reference

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/appleseed-hover-landing-gea.jpg

[dodo3d]

thanks for letting me to be part of the team and thanks for the references images ,I'll try to do my best.....

@ tessalated :

if u need any help in the mechanical modeling of the ship just tell me :beer:

[softdistortion]

Busy today, but managed to do a simple team page and also a gallery update >>>>
shirowproject page (http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject.php) You may need need to clear your browser cache to get it to reload the new updates!

I'll try to be around 5hrs from this post time.

[dodo3d]

Ok
I had started with the secand design of the weapone ...
it's still under construction ... any comment for the model till now??
http://dodo.homestead.com/files/weapone_2.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Looking good.
I think the scope is more closer to the barrel and has a sheath over it as part of the guns shell/plating.

[UberMaximus]

I might need some help with the mechanism under the landing gears. Im going to focus on getting the majority of the ships plating textured. Im spewing I havent finished this yet, I said I would have it done last weekend....

Then I can start the buildings? Or someone else already working on that?

[softdistortion]

Looking good!! My only other observations would be, I think the scope could needs to be more faceted and less rounded...also it needs to be longer. Otherwise great :thumbsup:

What building you talkin bout???? :surprised


Can't wait to see the textured ship, Tessalated!:drool:

[UberMaximus]

http://softdistortion.com/ESWAT-panel.jpg

http://softdistortion.com/ESWAT-panel-2.jpg

??

Maybe Im confused on what panels were doing.

[softdistortion]

Sorry Tessalated.:blush:

This is the scene I was suggesting we try first.
Scene>
http://www.softdistortion.com/appleseed hoverscene.jpg

The rest of the shots were mostly for reference. I thought we should start with a single, fairly simple scene and branch out from there.

I mentioned some of the goals I thought we could shoot for back a few pages. Maybe I'll put them on the next Shirowproject webpage update. Might be a good idea anyway, especially for new team members. I'm sure most would loath coming in late on a project and having to scan ton's of posts to figure out what's what.

Still can't wait to see that textured ship.:drool: :drool:

[UberMaximus]

Here u go dodo.

Gun Schematics (http://gallery.quadratic.net/shirow/shirow084)

[UberMaximus]

http://www.projectshirow.net/article.php3?id_article=38

hmmm

[UberMaximus]

You will need this codec to play .ogm files.

http://www.cole2k.net/

They played this stuff at the Cannes Film Festival.

I think our modelling could beat this.....

If we do it photo real it will look nuts.

[softdistortion]

*Tessalated- I think that Appleseed project died ,there was supposed to be a movie by now. They produced some not so great action figures that included a DVD with an extended clip but other than that nothing. If you guys want, I could post some of the extended clip for you to check. Do wish we could get some of their models though.:p


As far as I could tell from checking around before posting here to start this project. No one else is doing anything like what we are trying. so yeah....If we do photo real our it will definitely look NUTS!!
:thumbsup:


BTW: Nice gun schematic link you posted, wish we had more like that to help with all our models :-(
That particular rifle is part of Ghost In The Shell.


PS: Are all team members still ok with starting off with the scene I posted above? This will be MISSION#1 I'm working on a new project page and will add a Mission info page.

[UberMaximus]

Yeah Im cool with the scene.

Sorry, I keep posting Gits stuff.... I just browse Masamune Gallerys and keep seeing wicked reference.... :blush:

I will refrain.

Did u download the trailers to the Movie?

There wasnt much texturing on the ships. I like the way the stairs/doors opened though.... Might implement something like that as well....

Did u see when the ships landed? They didnt even use the front Landing Gears.... They just plonked it on the ground....... Bit soft I think.

[igorsandman]

I just wanted to propose something about the web site. The music is very cool, but maybe it would be beter if you put one of my music. I've got one which is pretty close to the "Kenji Kawai style" like the actual one.
Here's the link:
http://users.skynet.be/igorsandman/music/dl/Oniros.mp3
It's just a proposal. I just think that people browsing our site will think it's my music, you see.
Well, do as you wish. I won't be disapointed.
See you.
-IS-

ps: nice to see you amongst us Dodo3d. Welcome.

[softdistortion]

Hey...NP, just trying to help keep some order as to what is from where. Keep posting, It was your first GITs post that got me seriously thinking about doing that mega clip using a mix of our favourite Shirow elements.

Thanks for backing the suggested scene. Lets get one under our belt and then keep branching out. There are so many great scenes we can yet do. We are just scratching the surface with this one. ;-)

[UberMaximus]

Me digs the Oniros.....

Would anyone else agree that the gallery pics could be a little bigger?

[softdistortion]

hey Sandman...was wondering where you went :-)

you have a point...I do like the GITs track to though.
I'll have a listen and think it over.
Thanks Sandman!

Originally posted by Igor Sandman
I just wanted to propose something about the web site. The music is very cool, but maybe it would be beter if you put one of my music. I've got one which is pretty close to the "Kenji Kawai style" like the actual one.
Here's the link:
http://users.skynet.be/igorsandman/music/dl/Oniros.mp3
It's just a proposal. I just think that people browsing our site will think it's my music, you see.
Well, do as you wish. I won't be disapointed.
See you.
-IS-

ps: nice to see you amongst us Dodo3d. Welcome.

[softdistortion]

*Sandman-
Just listened to your track. The synth pad intro especially--- gave me chills it's soooo cool. It will be on the next page update...

*tessalated-I agree pics could be bigger:blush:
To answer your other question....I had a look at those Appleseed clips a while back, and yeah, I thought they kinda cut too many corners with things like no landing gear etc. Can't remember the doors opening though. I'll try to upload that clip in next day or so. gotta go work now...:-)

[Kid-Mesh]

Igor - the track is wicked :thumbsup:

Team: Nice progress thus far......




-KM

[igorsandman]

Hey,
I'm glad you like Oniros:bounce:
About the mix of several shirow mangas, I totaly agree. It would be more like an homage or something.
About the gallery, I agree it would be better a bit bigger.
About my work, the test you heard is almost done. I remixed it, now I need the video to have music and picture match perfectly. I'll be working on another test, more dreamy. We'll see where it goes. After that, I'll need the video to be finished to go further, so you won't here much about my work. I keep coming twice a day (sometimes more) and post comments and sheer-ups.
This team rocks the place! We should consider collaborating again later, I think. It's sad I'm still new with CG. I could have helped. I'm working hard though. I'll be beter than you in no time;)
Keep up, y'all.
-IS-

[dodo3d]

@tessalated :

about the landing gear how exactley I can help on it send me a clear referance for it and tell me exactly what u need ok?:)
and about the Gun do u need the last model ... cause I can't understand do u need three different Guns or u will dicied to use only one ..... I can start modeling the thered design ??
and about the Gun I think texture will help in the case of shell/plating.

@softdistortion :

thx for the comments on my wip and I'll try to fix the scope...

@Igor Sandman : thx

[softdistortion]

Just checking in quickly-----

*Sandman- We still need sound fx for the scene we are working on>Hovership engine fx. Later we will need machine landing gear operation and rifle shot fx etc...for any animation we do. If you can manage, you may want to start collecting some fx for us.



*Kmesh- Thanks!

*Dodo3D- Your welcome- we don't really need the 3rd rifle now unless you want to do it. I would say do the landing gear once you and Tessalated decide how to work on it.

[igorsandman]

I handle the sound FX, Softdistortion. It's a good idea.
Stay tuned.
-IS-

[softdistortion]

Thanks Sandman.

[UberMaximus]

Im rendering out a little scene to show the leg and door mechanics. Should be ready by morning. Heres a glimpse.

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render7.jpg

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render8.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Geez. Im a prick. I just realised how much you guys have been posting sorry for not answering any questions...

Dodo: #%$!Can the third gun schematics i posted, I was in lala land that day.
Ive sort of created the landing gear ( a bit too quickly I think) Basically any little piece of mechanical 'noise' like the plating, assembly, etc that is under the exposed shell sections when the armor opens. I can just stick them any which way. Or it might be easier and quicker to just texture it all.

SoftDistortion: Sorry for copying the red names idea :p Hows the ESWAT dude going?

Igor: I reckon the best noises for little motors, hydraulics and servos comes from cordless drills.... You know the little battery ones.... they go phswrrrrrrrt...... Might need something like that for the doors and gear.... What about the matrix Nebakinezzi thingy whats it..... when the hover engines fly past..... but then that would be copying.....

KidMesh: I promise I wont do anymore animating :D .... I just wanted to show off the landing mechanism. I have used a set driven key for the gears and door. Do you think you could duplicate the same mechanism onto the rest of the doors and the other landing gear?

[softdistortion]

LoL. It's alright Tessalated. I think we are all pretty laid back on this team.... as far as getting upset is concerned. It's really encouraging to see posts from the team in here....I think most of us and quite a few others come in regularly to see what's up....so tag a post when you can.

The red names are cool :-)... Keeps the forum less congested...Saves having to do multiple replies for each teammate and Helps us zoom in on our messages easier I figure.

As far as the ESWAT guy. I had the armour and body mostly done
But I don't like it. Especially since you and Dodo3d are doing such a good reproduction job on your models. I am redoing them, but I need to get some solid time to work at it, which isn't possible for a few days now. So I hope you guys can keep your enthusiasm up while your waiting on my less than stellar modelling skills and slow results on the ESWAT model. In the meantime
>Here's a link to the clip I promised for that Appleseed film project you were mentioning.
Appleseed clip 1.27 meg quicktime (http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/appleseedclip.mov)
Just to give you guys a real booster shot (i hope) here's another clip for you.
SAC clip 1.4 meg quicktime (http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/StandAloneComplexClip.mov)
Prt2 later...if your B:cool: :cool:STED. :-)




btw Tess- MODEL IS LOOKING GREAT!!!!

[Kid-Mesh]

Sure, using set driven keys are no problem. Once your ready we can collab on how it should be best set up.


BTW, are you using maya?

softdistorion: POST SOME MORE CLIPS!!!!!!! :drool:


-KM

[UberMaximus]

Here we go:

Quicktime Clip (http://www.jiltedreality.com/QuickT_anim_test.mov)

Divx Clip (http://www.jiltedreality.com/divx_anim_test.avi)

Yes this is Maya.

If you guys like these systems for doors and landing gear then we can apply them to the rest of the doors and gear.

[softdistortion]

Pich me, I must be dreaming. :eek:

AWESOME ANIMATION! Sound FX????SANDMAN????:-)

I luv you Tessalated :love: < In a tech head kinda way !!


On a more sober note. While trying to get that hateful ESWAT guy remodeled, I am also trying to get things set up for us to store, track and as needed exchange files. Let me know what formats you all use/have.

Movie Clips-I suggest we use quicktime for movies. If that is an issue let me know.
Model files- I'm not sure what everyone is using, so what format can we all settle on?
Textures--Photoshop?
Compositing- Let me know what you are using for comping , it will be helpful when the time comes.



Anyone else reading this- Once this Mission#1 is complete we will be starting Mission#2. Feel free to shout out and join the team if you would like to contribute in anyway. Like ahhh .....maybe you would like to help me model THIS DARN ESWAT GUY??? :-)


*Kid Mesh- Glad you like....Prt 2 coming to a theater near you, soon!

[UberMaximus]

movie clips -> quicktime is good (unless you are using dialup) Im on ADSL so its ok for me..
model files -> Obj? , Dxf wont save polygon normals information. What other progs are people using? maybe theres a format that is compatible to all, that includes texture information....
textures -> .psd
compositing -> After effects, Premiere.

Ill help with the ESWAT guy when Im finished. I need to practice organic skin modelling (not that u can see much under the helmet, But if we do the Shirow Mega Clip, theres all those girlies :P)

[Kid-Mesh]

movie clips -->Quicktime
model files -->Obj (Maya)

(But if we are using different apps then we should all consider using .FBX by Kaydra which would make us all compaitiable)

textures -->psd (Everyone has access to photoshop right?)
compositing--> After effects, Premiere, Vegas Video

In regards to the ESWAT Model....

I have a couple characters that I created with LW, I can shoot one over to you and you can hack his body parts if you like or use him as a base...

Kid Mesh Char 1 (http://www.madmotion.net/3djunk/Krell.jpg)

The only reason why I didnt jump on board and start making the guy is because I have been working in Maya for several months (converting @ work) and it would have just thrown my flow off.

Now, in regards to Mechas and the like...that wont be a problem in Maya, it just gonna take me a minute to get back up to speed organically if need be....Animation is no prob though :thumbsup:


Cheers Always,

-KM

[UberMaximus]

Im searching but cannot find the Maya plugin for .fbx yet.

[Kid-Mesh]

You have to sign up first :D Click ME! (http://kb.kaydara.com/display/1/loginRegisterFrame.asp?c=&cpc=&cid=&t=&aid=&r=0.4953882)


-KM

[igorsandman]

Hey!
Nice animation Tessalated. Good job! :thumbsup:
I'll try to add a few sound fx.
BTW, it would be cool if, when you've done a first animation, you could send me a first test, like untextured or flat shaded. just for me to see the timing of the final render. If we do so, I will be able to work on stuffs while the animation is still not yet finished. hmmm... I don't know if I made myself clear. my english is sometimes weird:blush:
See you.
-IS-

[UberMaximus]

Yeah sounds good to me.... even a playblast (really low quality render)... But I thought that Kidmesh was going to do the majority of the animation??

and Ive downloaded the .fbx plugins, if this really works across all platforms it will be wild.

Ive got some old low poly models that I can post that might help with modelling the ESWAT guys... Right now I got beer to drink at a friends house :drool: Its friday arvo here in Australia, and its well past beer o'clock.

Will post tomorrow.

[softdistortion]

Pinch me twice...I really must be dreaming! Ok....I luv you too KidMesh!:love:

On top of my ESWAT problems I think I've come down with flue virus or something---Still going, but feel like living dead. woke Up soaked from fever and couldn't get back to sleep....so of course I had to check our forum here. Seeing your post was better than drinking a gallon on NeoCitran. :-)
Please do send me a base model and I'll try to adapt it if I can.
Thanks !!

Thanks Tessalated ....Gotta get that file depot set up for all these models. :-) Send it over. Oh, and have acouple for me. :-)

Kid Mesh is our main animation guru. I'll let him decide about test animation / help etc.

[softdistortion]

File storage system is in place.
Please check you PM for your FTP login info.
You may want to try it out to make sure it is all running properly. Let me know if there are problems.

So far we can use the following file convention.

models- As Kidmesh suggested fbx if it works for us all- or .obj if it don't. Please use .obj file until we confirm that fbx works for everyone.

movies- quicktime- since most of us seem to use it, no one has objected.
models-
pics- jpeg or gif
references- jpeg/gif/text
sounds-mp3
textures- psd
compositing- is AfterFx for now.



need MORE Neo-citran.......
:surprised

[dodo3d]

Hi all

sorry for being away these days

@tessalated :

really nice work man , u rule :) ,about the plating for the landing stuff I think it will be better to make it with texture ,I can model the stuff in the image here if u like
http://dodo.homestead.com/files/mech1.jpg


if not .. just give me some referances image to start work with it ,BTW nice animation , the mechanical movement r nice .. any other mechanical details u need in the ship I am here for u

@softdistortion:

I am using 3dsmax and I think .obj r good but sorry I don't know the .fbx ???

[softdistortion]

Hi Dodo3d. Glad to hear from you. We will keep using obj file for now, so don't worry. I still have to check out the fbx plugin too.

Also, I am going to try to have some ESWAT updates to post for you by the end of the weekend t latest.

Keep in mind to Please record your Team file storage FTP login info that was PM'd to you earlier. Lets start making use of the folders for project related items. If you need an extra category let me know and I'll add it.

I also have version2 of the ShirowProject webpage ready to roll. Including sandmans soundtrack. Was just curious when you want it ....on the weekend sometime, or should I save it for a blue monday cheerup? :p

[igorsandman]

Hi all,
About the sound files format, I'm using mp3Pro because it's a twice better quality for the same file size. If you prefer me to use traditional mp3 format, just tell me. It doesn't realy matter for me.
See you.
-IS-

ps: hey, my movie "le seau" is finished. I just need to add english subtiltles. It will be available in no time! whoohoo:bounce:

[UberMaximus]

Schweet, i saw the film details on your web page. Me wants to see....

Ive uploaded some stuff to the team's Shared folder and its working fine for me.

Ive just downloaded 50 meg of metallic textures. Do you think I should upload this?

[igorsandman]

Yet another off topic thread:
My movie is finaly done after 9 month:
Check this out, dudes! (http://users.skynet.be/igorsandman/seau-dl.html)
See you.
Igor Sandman aka the bucket master (especialy at night)

[softdistortion]

*Sandman- Happy to hear you have brought your project to completion. That's cause for celebration:applause: ....break out the Fosters Tessalated! :-)

*Tessalated- Thanks for testing out the file storage. You can upload the files.

[softdistortion]

I'll try to do more before end of weekend.
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswat2.jpg

[dodo3d]

@softdistortion :

nice work waiting for the update

@tessalated :

still waiting for ur answer about the mechanical stuff for the ship :)

[UberMaximus]

dodo: Sorry for not getting back to you earlier. Yes you can model the landing gear and I'll fuse it in somehow.

Softdistortion: Australians do not drink Fosters. That is some crap that a crocodile hunter came up with years ago. We have now learnt how to create real beer, or import it :) I was drinking Hollandia on the week end :P
The Eswat guy is looking great. I like the details in the hands and forearms...

Igor: Im downloading the film now...

Kidmesh: Ill create the rear landing gear and touch up a few spots. At that point I wont have to touch anymore modelling. I can send it to you to create the set driven keys, and ill continue the texturing.

[softdistortion]

*Dodo3D- Thanks, and, I'm workin....I'm workin:thumbsup:

*Tessalated- I kinda figured you were gonna say something like that....ain't it wonderful how Hollywood typecasts people. :blush:


Hmmmmmmm...........suddenly getting very thirsty::::::::::::


BTW, thanks for getting back from the party long enough to clear up the model issues. :p

It's time to show us your stuff Kid Mesh! :-)

PS> psssst! Version 2 ... (http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject.php)

[Kid-Mesh]

Hey fellas,

Had a busy weekend....Just trying to get set back up. I should be back to normal by tommorow eve for sure :D

Softdistortion: I will upload that model tommorow for you.

Tessalated: When ever your ready we can start working together :D

Doodo3D: Great job so far!

Rest of Team: :thumbsup:

-KM

[softdistortion]

*KidMesh- Thanks :-)

*Team- Didn't get as much as I was hoping done. Here's a bit of armor progress>

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswatarmdetail.jpg
oooow...pretty colors! :p

[UberMaximus]

Another update. Texturing takes ages :( Its slower than modelling....

What do you guys think of the colour combination? Should I rough it up as well? bullet marks, shrapnel damage?

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render9.jpg

I have uploaded the model Kidmesh. Its a zipped .mb You will notice that there are some things missing on the side away from the camera. If we dont see them, dont need them.... Maybe later if we do a flyby animation or something.....

Ill stick in the landing gear assembly when Dodo3d uploads it....

And if anyone is good at logo design, I need stickers and warning labels to paste on it...

[igorsandman]

Hey tessalated, great job so far.:drool: Can't wait to see it finished!
See you.
-IS-

[Kid-Mesh]

tessalated : Ok, Im @ work atm but when I get home Im going to upload the model for soft and download yours...Ill be in touch.

-KM

[UberMaximus]

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render10.jpg

KidMesh: Just in case your wondering, the set driven key attributes are in the top half of the front head. Door and Gear I think.

I know this pic looks far to shiny and new... looks like its never been in a raid, but ill 'rough' it up a bit later....

SoftDistortion: I like the work on the ESWAT arm, looking good...

Igor: Cheers... :beer:

Dodo3d Hows the landing gear going?

[softdistortion]

*Tessalated- Totally amazing!
Some wear would definitely add realism to the ship. Mainly on the visable nose section. I'll try to make/find some decals etc and also look for some Military aircraft references for you. Just adding a grime layer or 2 might be all that's needed.

I'm also wondering if we should put out a call for texture artists to take some of the load off the modelling team?
Anyone reading this interested?

*KidMesh- Thanks!

*Igor- Hi...how the sound FX coming? I'll try uploading some of my collection for you to try today.

*Dodo3d- How's it coming? check in when you get a chance.

*TEAM- Thanks for using the file storage system to help facilitate not only the project, but also a sharing team spirit. Thanks for being such a great bunch of team mates!
I'm pretty sure I don't have to say this, but just to reassure current and possible future team members-Lets treat each persons contributions with the same protective care we would our own. ie; give careful attention to where/how you store/use the files on your personal computer. I don't want to see our team files selling on Turbosquid. :-)

[Kid-Mesh]

Just a suggestion but I think a good idea would be to always zip or rar the files regardless and use a (Team) password that only the team knows that way it would be difficult for a non team member to have quick access to them.

-KM

[UberMaximus]

Im at work at the moment. Does someone want to pull my zipfile down and put it back up with a password? PM everyone the password?

[softdistortion]

Not sure what you mean. The folders are already all passworded . I PM'd you all your personal folder pass (which only you and I know, and the team folder pass (which only the team knows). I think that should be good for now otherwise we'll have to be PMing all the passwords which will become a pain. Unless we keep one password for the zip files. Is that what you meant?

I was referring more to what happens to the files once we download them. They should not be left accessable to just anyone if say for instance we are running on a network or sharing our workstation/HD etc.

I'm testing out a WEB team system that will allow us to upload files and images with passwording. It also will allow us a team chat and forum area, as well as asset and project tracking.
If you're interested in helping test it out let me know and I will send you login info once I have it running stable.

*Tessalated- Here's a reference for you Aircraft (http://www.af.mil/search/gallery.asp?mediaType=1&galleryID=2)

[UberMaximus]

That idea sounds great. Ill help test it...

[softdistortion]

Thanks Tessalated! Anyone else? ;-)

[UberMaximus]

Just curious, Where is everyone from?

Im from Adelaide, Australia.

[softdistortion]

*Tessalated- Hawaii :rolleyes:
UpLoaded some textures for you.

*Igor-Still need to get you those FX Igor....I'm working at it :wip:

*DODO3D- Hows it coming? how do you want to handle texturing your items? you gonna do it or should we? I will be ready for a rifle soon to pose, so let me know. Thanks

*TEAM-Here's another armor progress shot. More pretty colors:p
Still need the hip and legs armor then I think I am almost ready to texture and rig him....

BTW. Version 2 of the Shirow project page is up If you haven't noticed yet.

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswat3.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Texturing is sooooo slooooow....

I uploaded heaps of textures for everyone....

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render11.jpg

[softdistortion]

Thanks Tessalated!

Ship is looking very good.
heheh...never mind texturing time....I'm going to have some extra trouble rigging this ESWAT guy cause I used a relax pose figure for reference to get his shape and scale. I should have started with arms/fingers up and out. :surprised

Guess I need more human modelling experience... This project should help take care of that! :)

I hope having the body layer and the armor layer together won't cause me more trouble when I get to rigging him. I haven't done 2 layer model like this before.

PS: Thanks very much for your contibution of textures....on top of your being busy texturing the ship.
There are some nice surfaces in there. As I looked at them, I also wondered, would you mind if I organize your texture upload? Some might be better in the reference folder or maybe are not usable right now with this mission.

Thanks

[UberMaximus]

sure I think theres even a cell shaded animation in there somewhere. Might be an idea for rendering a later mission?

[softdistortion]

K, I cleaned up the files and added some folders for diffuse and bump maps.

Cellshade could come up down the road. I think we're gonna be pretty freaked with the photo-real renders for a while though. Especially since no one else has really done anything like that with Shirow's works. We may even get CGtalk's front page if it turns out as good as it seems to be shaping up to be. ;)

[softdistortion]

Think I figured out how to deal with the rigging hands problems- due to improper model pose . Hand seems ok. Atleast for simple movement/grip

Ready with that rifle yet Dodo3D? ;)

Here's a quicktime hand rig test clip 1.2meg (http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/handrigtest.mov)

[UberMaximus]

What program are you using soft?

[softdistortion]

Lightwave....seems like I should be learning Maya too.:blush:

[UberMaximus]

can u post a divx or a wmv? I cant view quicktime at work :cry:

[UberMaximus]

doesnt matter now. Im at home.... but the quicktime wont work...

[softdistortion]

Sorry Tess, just got back in. I'll check it and repost. I think I might have used Sorenson3 codec in my rush to render it. I was using plain jane Sorenson for the other .mov files.

[softdistortion]

try it now.
Here's a quicktime hand rig test clip .7meg (http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/handrigtest.mov)

[UberMaximus]

That looks fuggin' boonta!!!!!! :drool:

[softdistortion]

Here's a quick and dirty pose for you before I have to pack it for the night. http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswat-pose.jpg

I know.....it needs more work. Just a test of the basic rig. I think I have to redo that stoopid chest/shoulder armor again. More leg armor still needed too. etc...etc....:hmm:

[igorsandman]

Hey Soft, good work dude.
I'm gathering sounds samples. I'm now waiting for the first animation.
Keep up.
-IS-

[softdistortion]

Hi Thanks Sandman: , and Thanks for checking in! Look forward to hearing some of the fx you have so far. I'll try to still get you my FX today....I hope :)

While your waiting, for the final images, could you do a test of your music and sound fx on the short animation Tessalated has already posted of his ship landing?

[igorsandman]

Originally posted by softdistortion
Hi Thanks Sandman:
While your waiting, for the final images, could you do a test of your music and sound fx on the short animation Tessalated has already posted of his ship landing?
Ok I'm on it.
-IS-

[UberMaximus]

Are KidMesh and Dodo3d still with us?

[softdistortion]

Hope so. Probably just busy. How are the textures coming Tess?

[UberMaximus]

Not too realistic..... I need to find a texturing tutorial for realistic, metals/rust...

[UberMaximus]

hmmm

http://www.planetquake.com/polycount/cottages/kingscastle/teaching.htm

[softdistortion]

Tessalated- Net Link...might be end of project if we get hooked on that:)

I'll check for some tuts for you. I would suggest for now just using procedurals before you run out of steam. Other wise make a obj file for me of part of the ship you need help with. I can tryu texturing and send it back with UV.

TEAM- I think the ESWAT guy is done. I had a horrible time with the chest plate armor. I think I did it 4 times before I thought it was half decent. The reference shots we were using are all a bit different, so its hard to know just how it should be modelled and still function and pose.

I am including a posed render. some parts like the butt are pinching because I still have to do the weight maps.

Let me know if you see anything I missed or needs changing.

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswatpose2.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Top half done :bounce:

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render12.jpg

[softdistortion]

Tessalated- Guess I can forget about looking for tutorials for you. :bowdown: LOOKS SUPER!

Here's another image of the ESWAT.


http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswatpose2b.jpg

TEAM- Hey guys....you still alive? :p

[UberMaximus]

Im rendering another small DIVX clip.....

http://www.jiltedreality.com/render13.jpg

KidMesh you out there somewhere?

[UberMaximus]

:eek:

SoftDistortion : That is looking sick...

[softdistortion]

Maybe something happened to him....he never did upload that model he promised. Hope he's ok.


Hate to have to do a team eugoogaly for him.:hmm:

[igorsandman]

hey good job to both of you. I hope KM is not dead.
btw soft, maybe you should try to darken a bit those googles. I think they're a bit too bright, imo.
Otherwise, great stuffs.
-IS-

[softdistortion]

Sandman- Yeah, I still need to texture him. The textures he now has are just provisional. Goggles will probably glow green when finished. Thanks for your observation though. :)

[UberMaximus]

That armour looks mad.

The animation I was working on, got scrubbed. Maya crashed as I saved it.....

Ill set it up again tonight, so hopefully we have something decent tomorrow.....

[softdistortion]

Hey Tess, I uploaded a .fbx file for you to try (to your personal folder) -should give you model 3 light and 2camera one with motion. I included a quicktime of what the arrangement should look like....try changing some of the positions and resave/upload for me to try.

Upload an fbx file saved from your Maya for me to try inporting on my end. Then if it works we can start setting the scene up so that we are ready to do the fx once we get the model texturing done.

We should start shooting out some ideas on how we might do the fx, and do some test maybe? I cn start once ESWAT is done....next week hopefully:surprised

[UberMaximus]

At work at the mo.

Will do tonight. Be good to have one of the troops run out of the troop carrier.

[UberMaximus]

How's the ESWAT guy?

Divx Clip2 (http://www.jiltedreality.com/divx_anim_test2.avi)

Quicktime Clip2 (http://www.jiltedreality.com/QuickT_anim_test2.mov)

The fbx didnt work. It only imported the animation keyframes and not geometry.

[softdistortion]

ANIMATION IS COOL!

Did it at least try the camera and light placement? I have to read the instructions once more and try again, maybe I did something wrong....first time I've used it.

Any word from Dodo or KM?

I'll try to do more on the ESWAT. I have to redo the bones a bit and do the weight maps and texture. Modelling is done unless you see something missing that needs adding.

I'll keep trying to sort this .fbx. If we get it working I hope that we can have identical camera and lights and at least render our elements for the still image.

It would be nice to get it to translate everything but I don't think it does anyway. So we will have to work out some method of working the animation out without having to redo the bones/textures etc....

[UberMaximus]

The fbx didnt import anything..... just key frames.

Havent heard from them. Guess we can write them off.

I have spoken to an animator in Peru who might help.

He's got heaps of good ideas on how we can use different software for each different section of the production.

He also thinks were taking too long. Ill send him a message and see if he wants to post today.

[softdistortion]

Originally posted by tessalated
The fbx didnt import anything..... just key frames.

I'll try again and upload the ESWAT tonite.

Havent heard from them. Guess we can write them off.
Too bad I miss them.



I have spoken to an animator in Peru who might help.

He's got heaps of good ideas on how we can use different software for each different section of the production.

He also thinks were taking too long.
Glad to hear his ideas, but Sheesh .... I don't know....can you go faster? I don't think I can do with less sleep.

[UberMaximus]

He's been in the cg industry for about 5 years so I guess he can :P Maybe we can learn some tips..... And get more sleep.

[dodo3d]

I am very very sorry ,but I was very busy in the last days

Ok tessalated : I'll start in the modeling for the landing mechanizim right now and I'll send the updates soon

softdistortion : nice work in the character here keep going ... do u want me to upload the gun files to the ftp and u texture them? or what?

Sorry ppl again for being late for u and I hope I still welcome ;)

[softdistortion]

You are definitely welcome. Sorry if it seemed we wrote you off. We were just unsure what happened and figured you and KM lost interest. Please do upload the Rifles (.obj files) if you like and I will texture them.

We are trying to get the .fbx file plugin working, but need to trouble shoot it a bit more. We are also trying to get used to the GroupWork forum that has been set up. I will PM you login info so you can join in there.

Thanks Dodo3d and welcome back:thumbsup:

[dodo3d]

sorry I think I have some problem with *.obj cause I am using 3ds max and it dosn't support this extenstion and I had tried the *.fbx and it dosn't work with max or with light wave so could I send it as *.3ds?????

[UberMaximus]

Use this dodo.

MAX2OBJ (http://www.3dmax.com/databank/plugins/max2obj.zip)

[softdistortion]

3ds should work ok too if .obj is a problem. ;)

[dodo3d]

@softdistortion :

I think *.3ds will not work good with lightwave and sorry I have a problem with the ver of the plug in u send I am using 3dsmax 5 and the ver of the plug in is older .. I had search for it on 3dcafe and someother sites but I couldn't find it for ver5 ...
I'll try to send *.3ds to u and u can try it and tell me ok? u will find it in the ftp in the models directory

@tessalated :

here is a try with the ship landing mechanism I need more referances from another side to make it more detaild
http://dodo.homestead.com/files/landing.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Thats looking great. Ill see if I can find more reference.

[softdistortion]

Can I say this too often? AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWSOME!!!

Model worked fine after convert. It is rough textured and rendering as I post this....Stay tuned for image shortly!!:-)

[softdistortion]

My texturing needs work (just wanted you all to see Dodo's rifle in action) but still......:drool:


http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswatrifle.jpg

Nice work Dodo3d!:thumbsup:

[softdistortion]

Dodo3d The models are great! Thanks for your work.


Tessalated Thanks again for your work and loyalty to the project.
I Don't want to step on and Your and Dodo3d's toes, but the the landing gear detail is fine..... can you add it as is?
I am pretty well ready to start posing the scene. FBX is still not 100% but once it is I think we should start the scene layout>models/lights/camera/fx. We still need to finish texturing and make sure our seperately textured models look right together. Did your contact give any input on co-ordinating the render stage. .fbx?? etc>???


TEAM We also need to start working on the fx. I'd like you to take a look at the scene and give some input on execution of the debris /motion fx.




http://softdistortion.com/appleseed hoverscene.jpg

[dodo3d]

@softdistortion :

thanks for the kind words and for giving me the chance to join the team and btw nice start in texturing but as u say it still need work ,and I think the scale is too big or is it just a test ?or the camera?

@tessalated :

I am waiting for more referances ,did it fit with the ship ??

[softdistortion]

Dodo3D You're Welcome...you have become an integral part of the teams progress. It's not just the modelling either. We really got a boost from you being here and adding to the motivated enthusiasm:thumbsup:

As for the rifle I'll adjust the scale a bit.. I think I might have to actually take off the barrel tip to get it to match the rifle in the Mission#1 Scene.
That's not your fault, cause your model is exact to the references.
It's just a bit different in Shirow's drawings. :shrug:

I think the landing gear details you did are perfect, leave that as it is for now. If you want to you could model the cannisters that are on the ESWAT right chest area in the Mission#1 Scene

TEAM
I've Been trying to get the workgroup area I had set up sorted out. But it may be too complex for what we need at this point. Thanks for testing it out with me Tessalated. I would still like to have a team workgroup area for in depth trouble shooting and collaboration on specific details. Also it would be nice to have an archive of each mission under the ShirowProject banner. To do this in a simpler format, I have set up ShirowProject forum here> (http://softdistortion.com/shirowforum) Use same login/pass info as what you are using for the team FTP.

Thanks
SD

[dodo3d]

what is the cannisters ?? send some clear image for it and I'll start modeling until tessalated replay about the landing stuff...

and if u need to model any thing that will appear in our shot give it to me

[UberMaximus]

hmmm I want to add the landing gear but cant find it on the FTP site??

[softdistortion]

Dodo3d* I think you still need to upload the landing gear. :shrug:

[softdistortion]

Tessalated there's a decal texture for your ship in the ShirowProject under "what we still need"
link (http://softdistortion.com/shirowforum/viewtopic.php?p=26#26)

[softdistortion]

Tessalated* there is another .fbx I uploaded to your team folder. filename> 1camera_2lights_2 boxes..fbx

it is loading in motionbuilder and recognizes all my positions, so hopefully it should work in Maya for you.

Here's a Motionbuilder grab of positions>
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/fbxmotionbuilderLWS.jpg

If it works, try swapping the light positions and send it back so I can check if your changes work for me.

Thanks SD

[softdistortion]

Sandman*

How did that sound fx tset for Tessalated short animation work out?

TEAM*
There are some more animations in the references section of the Shirowproject Forum (http://softdistortion.com/shirowforum)

Use your team pass and login for access.

[igorsandman]

Originally posted by softdistortion
Sandman*

How did that sound fx tset for Tessalated short animation work out?


It didn't get very well. I should work a bit more on it. Now I'm ill :( I get back to it as soon as I get better.
See you.
-IS-

[dodo3d]

Sorry I had forgot to upload the landing gear file ... u can find it now in the models directory

[UberMaximus]

The forum is fantastic. I will update teh model with the new textures and landing gear tonight... ill try the fbx import/export as well...

I think the FTP also needs a folder for sound samples... I can upload those motor drill samples ive got then...

[softdistortion]

Thanks Guys! Hurry and get well Igor :thumbsup:

Tessalated There is a "sounds" folder in the FTP. ;)

[UberMaximus]

This fbx thing is a headache....

It keeps crashing Maya. I have maya5 i dont even know if it supports it... The best I got was two lights and a camera imported, but they were all placed at the origin....

What about this one?

http://www.okino.com/conv/filefrmt_3dimport.htm

Or what if you export out of light wave fbx and then import into motion builder, and then export out fbx and import into Maya.

or what if we import everything into motion builder in fbx format?

I have uploaded a FBX file of the troop carrier (troopcarrier2) into the models folder... Do you want to try importing that?

[softdistortion]

Yeah..... here's what I got in Lightwave and Motionbuilder. Camera and light look right? Other than some model parts being offset, I think it works. Textures did not import. I think they need to be set up in an external folder for fbx to find and load them.

uploaded My scene resaved from MB in your FTP folder named:motionbuilder resave.fbx

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/troopcarrier-comparison.gif

PS: The link you posted looks like it only does model conversion. We also need scene translation. ;)

[UberMaximus]

Hooorahh !!!!!!!

It worked....

The lightwave->MB->Maya worked!!!!

http://www.jiltedreality.com/finally.jpg

Its scaled it up massively but thats cool...

The reason some of that geometry went sqew is because I forgot to freeze transformations relative to the origin...

Theres no animation though... try doing the same with the other test .fbx animation you sent and then we can check if it imports keyframes...

Im still looking for where I put those sound effects but will upload soon.

[softdistortion]

kewl... I think we're most of the way to allowing both of us to work on the scene. I'm pretty sure this is going to be crucial to the final scene.

I will be tweaking the ESWAT textures a bit, and will work on a rough scene blocking render tonight. Once I get it set I'll resave to .fbx and let you have a look. If you get a chance, can you resend that troopcarrier with geometry locked down. I can move them myself....it would save me some fiddleing though, and also avoid any scene/model inconsistencies.

Thanks SD.

[softdistortion]

Should give you a quick looky

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswat-pose-1.jpg

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswat-pose-2.jpg

[UberMaximus]

With the first panel that we are creating, I was wondering if we should add any extra details, eg teh background... Its just left completely white in the comic panel. We could add a buildings wal or something....

Have you noticed the ESWAT guy laying on the ground just next to the ship? has he fallen or is he in a sniping position?

Dodo3d, If your not doing the canisters Ill do them tonight.

[softdistortion]

Tessalated- Lets just leave it simple for this first one.... sky and dust from the troop carrier.


Yeah, I did notice the ESWAT on the ground. I had to chuckle at the humor/realism....looks like one of his feet is in the air and kinda corkscrewed....he musta done a faceplant as he was exiting the carrier. Seems realistic that it would happen, I mean look at how fast that thing is going....and you're supposed to do a jump and run???;)

TEAM There seem to be roughly 7 ESWATs counting mister face in the dirt. should we leave some of them out of the scene since they are barely visible blobs?

[dodo3d]

I agree with tessalated about the background it'll be better if we design some bulding and stuff like that give me any drwing for a background and I'll start modeling

about the canisters ,I didn't understand softdistortion when he asked me about it sorry :) ,it's ok if u start modeling it tessalated ,how is the landing gear did it match with the ship?do u need any other details for it?

[softdistortion]

I guess I should be sorry for always shopping the snot out of everything. :shrug:
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswat-blocked-scene1b.jpg

Tessalated- Been working (no sleep)overtime lately, so in a fuzzy haze....I may have sized your model a bit off.

TEAM- I may seem to be missing for a bit till I get caught up here. There's a bigger sized render in the team forum for you all.
You Guys are the Best!:bowdown:

Calling all ARTISTS! Anyone else reading this that would like to be part of upcoming Missions please email/PM me or Tessalated.>

[softdistortion]

Hey Igor, you feeling any better? Miss ya:wavey:

[softdistortion]

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/eswat2.1-small.jpg

[dodo3d]

wow nice shot u have here , I think it's time to see some animation test right?

@Tessalated :

How is the landing gear is it ok ? do u need any details or modification on it??

btw I am starting to work in a new project to improve my bad skills in characters modeling hope to hear ur comments
my new small project (http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=107966)

[UberMaximus]

Sorry I haven posted in a while.... Been flat out...
I want to maybe make some dust particles in MAYA and animate another landing... if the rocks are upladed I can try with them as well. Can light wave export .obj or .3ds or someother format that we can just import?

Should we all agree on one prog for animation? In case FBX dont work out?

Just saw Dodo's post. Yes we shall have animation... Ive been working a 7 day week, but I have 2 days off after tomorrow so Ill defniely have something there.....

Landing gear is good, looks nice and mechanically complicated now under the armour plating.

[softdistortion]

Dodo3d- Thanks for the feedback on the image. I think your rocks add some important detail.

TEAM-
Incase you haven't been keeping up with the team forum news. We may have a new team member coming online for mission #2.
I'll try to post the mission detail today in a new thread.


Our current team can continue with mission #1 till it's Dec31 deadline. Post any ideas for animation etc in the team forum (http://softdistortion.com/shirowforum) please. There's more info on these details over there too.

Thanks guys

[igorsandman]

Originally posted by softdistortion
Hey Igor, you feeling any better? Miss ya:wavey:
I think I'm gonna die. I go to bed at 9 pm and I wake up at 12 am for five days. Can you believe that? 16 hours sleep per night and still feel tired all day long. I think I'll get well in a couple of days. I'll work twice harder after that. promise.
btw, I like the second render with motion blur. It's owesome. very dynamic.
See you.
-IS-:wavey:

[softdistortion]

Thanks Igor. Don't worry about working twice as hard, just take your time and get better!

[dodo3d]

hia softdistortion Iam still waiting to see some animation test :beer:

[softdistortion]

yeah...me too. ;)

[softdistortion]

In the meantime here's shirowproject's humble attempt to apply suggestion>More ESWATs ....More smoke/ dust....less blue sky/etc...

:love:Kirt? :love:

http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/ESWAT%20Final%20V2.jpg

[dodo3d]

cooooool nice work softdistortion I like it very much

comments:
1- the background ,I think we need to add some tuff in the background to fill this empty area in the back or increase the num of ships and e.s.w.t
2- the characeter who just jump from the ship need to be rescaled or the ship is need to be more bigger .... somthing rong there I can't descripe it :shrug:

the characters are really rigged very well ,very good work softdistortion ...
but the one in right his left hand is looking strang may be it's my eye any way still coooooooooool image

@tessalated :

I am still waiting for the animation test man .... is it will be for the whole scenes or just for the ship landing mechanizems????

[softdistortion]

Dodo3d Dodo3dThanks ... you have made more good suggestions, but I think I'm tired of working this still for now. Here's a final one with a little less of the infamous blur;)
http://softdistortion.com/shirowproject/ESWAT Final V3.jpg


I was hoping we would get a feature in the finished work forum, but to nooo alas.
===BEGIN RANT===I think for a team of non-pros who have never done a project with this degree of difficulty, we have acheived better than feature status anyway...to have done it and stayed together as a team and on freindly terms a individuals, is an even greater testament to our achievment. Kudos and BIG Respects to my shirowproject team mates :0===END OF RANT===

So, what is the status from here?
We still have 2 weeks till the official end of mission date> Dec31
Everyone....specially you :-) seems to want an animation. So lets get off our butts and do an animation. Also, If we're going to do it, I say we do it FULL ON, with the full scene >>>>Mega ESWAT >>>>troops>>>>Ships>>>> Dust ROCKS>>>etc.:eek:


I'm taking the rest of this over to the team forum, so lets discuss details there. Tessalated and I have both been mucking around with the scenes, but we need to get knuckle down serious on how we will animated this thing so we can get rolling ASAP!

I am going to mull over what we have and have not in the model/scene animation exchange area. I will post an animation strategy in roughly 6hrs from this posts time. Tessalated and I will hopefully quickly be able to refine that to a functioning plan of attack and proceed.

[UberMaximus]

Damn these friggin' maya particles and there non cacheable rendering.... wasted a whole 3 hrs rendering for nothing.....

It seems it wont let you batch render from dos unless you have the Maya program open to calculate the particles physics...

Render in Dos, its quicker, but particles physics doesnt work properly (even with caching)

Render inside Maya, its slower but renders properly... Arrrrgh I cant win.

I might post this scene in a Maya forum and see if anyone can see what I'm doing wrong.

Heres a teaser of whats coming, I will render out what I have later today.

Divx Play Blast Test (http://www.jiltedreality.com/dust_blast_small.avi)

[dodo3d]

I think I have some problem with the link ... is it just me or the link is brocken???????

[softdistortion]

His server is being backed up. :surprised

[UberMaximus]

You can access the playblast in the team ftp folder under movies. They should be finished soon.

[dodo3d]

mmm I think I like it very nice work man ... keep it up
can we see a render for it?

[dodo3d]

Ok ... a first try with our giant mech
http://dodo.homestead.com/files/mech1.jpg

[UberMaximus]

Wow.... Looking pretty 'Snazz - O' there Dodo..... Looks huge already :thumbsup:

I will post as soon as I can get MAYA to bloody render properly... Its being so retarded.

[UberMaximus]

Ok here we go. This is just the alpha map. I need to rerender the main animation today.

Divx (http://www.jiltedreality.com/dusttest2.avi)

[dodo3d]

I think I 'll use this giant mech as a body gaurd for my new female charcater that I am working in these days (Is it ok???)

BTW tessalated : I think the render will be great cause the alpha is coooool keep it up

[UberMaximus]

How does it look?

now working on getting the new animation done.

Divx (http://www.jiltedreality.com/comp1.avi)

[soulescape]

Hey, if you're looking to get some sound effects in there, I'm up for it. Yes, I have experience :beer:

[igorsandman]

whoohoo! That smoke effect kicks ass, Tessalated!
-IS-

[softdistortion]

Hey Soulescape...I read your post here after I PM'd you so just ignore that PM i guess. We have Igor Sandman on sound. He created the cool music on our shirowproject FLASH webpage ....he has been really sick though, so maybe he could use your help/input. What do you say Igor? Can we add Soulscape to the sound crew for sound FX?

[dodo3d]

cool work as usual Tessalated .. I like the effect and still wait for a full render with lights and texture and softdistortion characters
keep it up
btw didn't the landing gear that I did for the ship work ?? do u need any other details in the ship for modeling ?

[igorsandman]

Sound tests have been made:
click here or die! (http://www.jiltedreality.com/sample.avi)
If you clicked and died anyway, I'm not responsible.
-IS-

[softdistortion]

Looking...and now Sounding Very NICE:thumbsup:

Thanks Guys!

[softdistortion]

soulescape- ran it by some of the team and you are now officially part of the sound crew. WELCOME:wavey:
Keep tabs on this thread and touch base with Igor on how you two can best work together ( we were thinking Igor does music...you do FX??? sound good??)when we have some more animation for you to add sound to.




ALL READERS-

We currently need help with some buildings and vehicles for the animation. here are some refs as a guide only ( you could go with either an intact or derelict style). We only have 2 weeks left so don't think...just hit that post button and start modelling! :scream:

http://softdistortion.com/shirowprojectpublic/building-ref1.gif


http://softdistortion.com/shirowprojectpublic/building-ref2.gif

[softdistortion]

http://softdistortion.com/shirowprojectpublic/building-ref4.gif

[soulescape]

I also model btw. With 3ds max. I just can't texture or light scenes so great. Could show you some stuff or just take a crack at one of those images ;)

[UberMaximus]

Try modelling the frame that has SKREEE in it. Show us some of your previous work, or send us an email.

[soulescape]

think ill stick to the sounds for now :)

[dodo3d]

any way u want to join with (sound or modeling) u r welcome :beer:

[softdistortion]

Actually we can add as many people as are willing to join. There are many more missions to do and we could even have some side missions for individuals or small groups if we eventually have enough members to get sub teams together.

I also have been offered some free copies of rendernode magazine by its publishers. So if we are in a bind for modellers on a certain item, we can maybe use that as incentive too. :D

Infact, maybe we should have a free copy go to the most active contributer at the end of a certain period of time...? What you think?

I'm not affiliated with them, and this is not an ad!
If you want a look Here's the mags info> RenderNode Magazine (http://designtraders.com/RenderNode.htm)

[soulescape]

I had some time this morning. Keep in mind that the sound quality is at 22,050 8bit mono. I sample it down like that just for test clips.

so, CLICK HERE (http://www.desertcrisis.com/souls/test.avi) to see/hear the sample from the landing ship alpha anim render.

[softdistortion]

soulescape- Very Nice! Did you and Sandman get a work setup figured out to help your collaborations? Also you guys might wanna start running some ideas on what min/max sound file requirements we should be shooting for on the clip. I think Sandman is a high quality proponant 44.1k/16bit/stereo. We need to scale that a bit to keep the file sizes reasonable. Can you guys combine your experience to get us the highest quality sound with the lowest file size ?

Tessalated has a very nice PREVIZ (http://www.jiltedreality.com/blast10.avi) that may help you with deciding sound requirements...

[UberMaximus]

Maybe some rain effects in there?

[soulescape]

Well I normally record work at 44,100 - 16bit - stereo. If it needs to be lower qual, I just pass it through an anti-alias filter. You can't really tell the difference.

That clip I just did is about 1.16 mb. Upped to 44,100 - 16bit - stereo and it's 2.41 mb. Upped to 22,050 - 16 bit - stereo and it's 1.70mb

Depending on the length and res of the clip, I would go with 44,100-16bit - stereo for maximum.

Under that, I would stick with 22,050 - 16bit - stereo.

I'd at least like to keep it in stereo.

If I had to make a choice on a solid rate, I'd go with the 22,050 - 16bit - stereo. For file size sake.

Any thoughts?

[softdistortion]

Your FX on the previz are Excellent!! Thanks for your work.

As for sound file resolutions, I was kind of hoping to get sandman in on that decision. Igor? What do you think?

[colkai]

I'm no Lw expert but if you'd care to send me some details I'll see if there is anything I can do - would be good experience.

[softdistortion]

Originally posted by colkai
I'm no Lw expert but if you'd care to send me some details I'll see if there is anything I can do - would be good experience.

Hey thanks for your interest. We re glad to have people of any skill level join the missions.

This mission#1 you have posted in is already complete. Here are some of the other missions now active.

CGTalk mission#1 animation forum (http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=109019)
CGTalk mission#2 forum (http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=113780)
CGTalk side-mission#1 forum (http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=113779)


If you want to get modelling right away, We could use part or all of the hover ship in these panel>

http://softdistortion.com/shirowprojectpublic/building-ref1.gif

Model files should be "real world" scale (use building as reference) output should be in LW/.obj/3ds/or .fbx format.

Glad to have you with us!:)

[CGTalk Moderation]

This thread has been automatically closed as it remained inactive for 12 months. If you wish to continue the discussion, please create a new thread in the appropriate forum.