Making It Look Great 8 - complete robot

Modelling, Texturing and Rendering Techniques for Cinema 4D

3D artist, Cinema 4D expert and trainer Rob Redman hosts MILG8: The Complete Robot, step-by-step instruction for modelling, rigging, texturing and rendering a unique robot character using Maxon Cinema 4D.

Presented in a convenient interactive interface, the course is broken down into 3 main sections: Modelling, Texturing and Rendering; offering real-world Cinema 4D production techniques and workflow.

The Modelling section begins with customising your Cinema 4D interface and setting up keyboard shortcuts and tool icons, aiding efficient workflow. Adding reference images to viewports to use as modelling guides, and using the content browser is also covered.

Next we model the head, moving on to the body, arms and other parts of the Robot. Care is taken to show various methods of creating the same end result, letting you decide which way you feel more comfortable. As the model progresses certain aspects of rigging are covered, from using deformers, right through to building a joint system for the neck with Inverse Kinematics. We also look at how to use character controls in the viewport for faster workflow. The last video in the chapter shows you how to set up the Visual Selection tag, leaving you with plenty of free screen space to work in. Watch example

Although there are only a small number of materials needed for the model, in the Texturing section we look at materials in-depth, covering projection methods and a number of shaders. We use Adobe After Effects to create an animated texture and Adobe Photoshop is to create a sticker decal complete with wear and tear marks. Watch example

The Rendering focuses on setting up a beauty render. We build a set and look at lighting the scene using a combination of HDRI, illuminated materials and procedural lights. We also look at render settings for both Globally Illuminated renders and for those users not using the Advanced Render Module. Finally we move back to Adobe Photoshop for post production work, with colour correction, grading and final image tweaks. Watch example

While focussing on Maxon Cinema 4D, sections covering texture creation in Adobe After Effects and Adobe Photoshop, plus post work and decal creation in Photoshop are also included. If you use different software the principals found in the course will still apply, even if the shortcuts and tools may vary. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate user, you’ll find a wealth of material instantly applicable to your own projects, either at work or as a hobbyist.