Carpe Diem

I created this short demo from scratch, using the software I generally use for video games and real-time rendering. I set up a composition with lighting and cameras, and then used the sequencer in Unreal Engine 5 to create a cinematic rendering with path tracing.

As shown below, for the mug creation process, I made a model sheet based on reference photos provided. I began by using Blender to create the basic 3D geometry of the prop, and then used ZBrush to add fine details and ornaments, ensuring accuracy and fidelity to the original model.

In the video below, you can see that after working on the mesh's clean retopology and UV layout using both Blender and ZBrush, I moved on to Substance 3D for the baking and texturing process.

For the creation of the old book, I also used Blender for polymodeling. To find inspiration for the dust jacket design, I browsed the internet, where the title 'Carpe Diem' came to mind. I then used ZBrush to sculpt the engraving and embossing, applying efficient techniques.

As shown in the sped-up video below, I completed the retopology and UV layout of the mesh using both Blender and ZBrush, followed by baking and texturing in Substance 3D.

For the wooden planks where the props are placed, I sculpted them in ZBrush and Adobe, then retopologized and unwrapped the UVs using Blender and ZBrush, and completed the baking and texturing in Substance 3D.

To finalize the project, I exported all the props and textures into Unreal Engine, along with scanned assets like the apple and basil. I set up a layout with cameras and lights, created UE materials, and made final adjustments in Unreal to achieve the visual results displayed at the top of this webpage.

Additionally, I added the beautiful soundtrack from the Harry Potter film to the clip and completed the cinematic editing in Unreal Engine using Adobe Premiere Pro. Below is the model sheet of the Harry Potter mug that I used as a reference to create it as a 3D real-time asset.

This is the model sheet of the Harry Potter mug, which I used as the foundation to create it as a 3D real-time asset.

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I created the miniatures for this released game based on the specifications I was provided.

I created this gramophone using Houdini SideFX, as I wanted to explore Houdini's techniques for low poly modeling with nodes, in contrast to the 3D polygon modeling in Blender or Maya that I typically use. This was during my time learning procedural techniques in Houdini. I then proceeded with unwrapping the UVs, also in Houdini, and used Substance 3D for baking the input maps, such as normal maps, curvature, ambient occlusion, etc., and for texturing. Finally, I utilized Marmoset Toolbag for real-time rendering and MViewer, which I should embed here, as well as Adobe Premiere Pro for the Ken Burns presentation and turntable. I chose the delightful "Petite Fleur" music by the soloist and composer Sidney Bechet.

Here is a collectible I created from scratch based on my own concept art and love for this character, using ZBrush. Dragon Ball Z is one of my favorite childhood anime series, and I had a great time sculpting this piece in 2014; it’s one of my older works. I remember struggling at that time to create the cloud in 3D because there were only 2D references available, and there weren't many merchandise items or collectibles of Son Goku molded back then.

Here is another collectible I created from scratch in ZBrush. I used Unreal Engine 5 and its sequencer to produce the 3D turntable presented here.

I designed the central piece of the game, the metal-cast medallion, based on the specifications I received and my own concept art. I utilized 3D sculpting and printing technologies, along with my traditional art and molding skills. Additionally, I designed the back of the cards and the token illustrations to match the medallion.

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Here are some miniatures I created based on my concept art for the board game Battle Zone. I sculpted them in ZBrush, using the same techniques employed by Avalanche Software for the creation of the Disney Infinity figures, which have always been a great inspiration for me in terms of design and game concepts. I also used KeyShot for the 3D rendering. Additionally, I designed some trading cards for the game, as shown.

I'm happy to share this 3D asset I created in ZBrush and Substance 3D. Once again, I chose an object to teach my students some hard surface techniques and procedural texturing. Here is the final visual version of the related course, rendered in Iray and Marmoset Toolbag. During my classes, I demonstrate the entire process using a video projector, and for online teaching, everything I explain is directly visible through screen sharing.

Here is the Lapin Crétin I created based on the famous Ubisoft game character, which I like very much! I wanted to reproduce Ubisoft's techniques and art style to create another course for the Art and 3D class I teach. This presentation showcases the full process: I used ZBrush for sculpting, retopology, and UV mapping; texturing in Substance 3D; rigging and skinning in Blender; and finally, I created a short animated sequence in Unreal Engine 5, incorporating some post-processing effects to enhance the clip's appeal. I also handled the video editing in Adobe Premiere Pro, adding the original soundtrack from the Raving Rabbids that I downloaded

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