Week 4 - Communicating in 3D - Marcus Spencer

 Reflection on Modelling

  • Focused on refining the upper torso and ensuring smooth, natural surface flow.

  • Sculpting the chest area has been challenging, especially maintaining correct shape, symmetry, and stylized proportions while keeping clean topology.

  • Needed to find a balance between anatomical believability and the simplified, “toy-like” aesthetic of the production bible.

What’s Working Well

  • Edge flow now follows the form more naturally and supports better deformation.

  • The Smooth tool have been helpful for fine adjustments.

What’s Causing Issues / How I’m Addressing Them

  • Difficult to get the curvature right without unwanted creases or sharp transitions.
    → Adding supporting edge loops and checking the mesh from multiple angles.

Aesthetic

  • The model continues to fit the stylized Pixar/Disney visual language.

  • Simplified, clean surfaces read well from all angles.

Opinion on Current Look/Direction

  • Like how the character’s form is starting to look cohesive and polished.

  • Still unsure whether to add slight surface definition or keep everything fully smooth for a toy-like look.

Next Steps

  • Finish refining torso and shoulder connections.

  • Prepare mesh for UVs and early texture testing.

  • Share updated files with the team via OneDrive for feedback.

Technical Notes:

Using Microsoft OneDrive for Team Collaboration

  • Upload Maya files to the shared OneDrive folder.

  • Use version naming to avoid confusion.

  • OneDrive automatically syncs and updates shared files for all team members.

  • Ideal for keeping models and textures consistent across devices and collaborators.

Feedback:

  • Said the chest and torso area looked a bit too flat from the side view.

  • Adjusted curvature slightly and re-sculpted using soft selection for smoother form.

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