In this brand new video from cmiVFX, Michael Marcondes will introduce you to Surface Modeling Techniques inside Cinema 4D with a very dynamic and easy to follow lessons using a great concept design from a short movie called "The OttoMan" from Mike Stamm. Stamm was kind enough to let us use the Scarab Machine concept design from the short as an object of study for this training material. Modeling such a great amount of details takes a long time, so in this video we are going through some of the key steps to learn the techniques behind Surface Modeling in C4D. This tutorial is for everyone seeking to sharp their modeling skills or trying to learn this amazing art called 3D modeling.
Blocking
Understanding how to start your model or elements from it is an essential knowledge every modeler or aspiring modeler should know really well. That will define if you are going to cross the easy road of modeling or if you are going to spend endless time trying to get closer to the shape you want. We will go through several examples of the Scarab Machine elements to discuss important usages of blocking in your day to day modeling and how that can help you achieve what you need.
Shape Design
The first time you sit down to model something in 3D is usually a mind opening experience and a very rewarding one! It is like learning how to write again! It is like letting people see the art in your mind! Creating something from scratch, seeing it evolve with time is like nurturing a little seed until it is a full grown tree. In this segment we will use an important shape from the Scarab machine to talk about all the steps , challenges and techniques around the creation of a model from the ground up. Get ready!
Surface Control
The next level of modeling techniques are about adding intricate details inside a surface without losing surface information or shape integrity. Controlling the surface flow and design is one of the most demanding tasks when you come into the refining stage of your model. Your accomplishment in this area will be easily visible if your model has reflective surfaces because they show surface issues like a bright light! Here you will be presented to some important skills to control your surface inside Cinema 4D using one of the most complex areas of the Scarab Machine , the Front Light Hood. It is an integrated part of the model that must fit perfectly the design lines with proper topology flow.
Complex Surface Design
Sometimes you will be facing a challenging element of your model, very detailed and it must be a single piece of geometry. How do you design such thing without losing the ability to easily control the surface? How to make it simple and efficient but at the same time looking complex? Visual complexity is something that we can bring to our models to enrich the renders. Here we will use a very complex and detailed area from the Scarab leg to demonstrate how you can answer those questions. Starting with the blocking up to the final refined element you will understand the delicate process of adding complex details to your surface modeling.
The Author
Michael Marcondes is a Brazilian independent artist that has been working freelance for years internationally. He worked on hundreds of projects ranging from print to broadcast using a great variety of tools like Maya, Lightwave, Modo, Cinema 4D, PfTrack and many more. He has a strong passion for the detail in lighting, shading and rendering. He is in love with a good render!
Screenshot