Character Modeling Concepts in Maya

What you'll learn

When building computer generated models for games, film, or broadcast, characters provide a unique set of challenges. Character models must not only look like a particular character, but they must also be built in such a way that they are able to be readily animated. This means the topology, or edge flow, can be much more important on a character model than a prop or section of environment. In this Maya modeling tutorial, we will talk about some of the specific challenges facing artists as they build characters, using a simple character as a guide. You'll learn concepts like facial topology, working from reference, and keeping a clean scene. We'll also cover common modeling techniques from polygon box modeling, to edge modeling, to working with NURBS. In the end you'll have the knowledge and experience you need to begin creating your own custom CG characters. Software required: Maya 2013.

Table of contents