Maya: Retopology for Animation
1h 2mBeginner2018-09-20
Authors
Ryan Kittleson
CG Artist who teaches 3D modeling, sculpting, and printing
Course details
Retopology is a fun combination of artistry and technique. Characters that are sculpted in programs like ZBrush or Mudbox are usually too dense to animate correctly. Retopology takes an existing sculpted model or 3D scan and optimizes the mesh for efficient geometry and more natural animation. Instructor Ryan Kittleson shows how to import the original model, plan the refined edge flow, and create new geometry, and modify the polygon mesh. By the end of the course, you should be able to apply the same theory to prepare any character for rigging and animation.
Learning objectives
Setting up the sculpted model
Drawing guidelines
Using the modeling toolkit
Adding and deleting polygons and edge loops
Retopology tips and tricks
Learning objectives
Setting up the sculpted model
Drawing guidelines
Using the modeling toolkit
Adding and deleting polygons and edge loops
Retopology tips and tricks
Skills covered
ZBrushPixologic3D AnimationRenderingMotion Graphics and VFX3D ModelingVisualization and Real-TimeAECProduct and ManufacturingAnimation and IllustrationDeep Dive (X:Y)
Concepts
Introduction
- Retopology with Maya
- Preparation for this course
Preparing for Retopology
- Set up the sculpted model
- Draw guidelines
- Establish the major flow zones
- Deal with special cases
- Finish the guidelines
Using the Modeling Toolkit
- Place vertices and polygons
- Extend edges
- Make the ear
- Add and delete polygons and edge loops
- Increase the mesh detail
- Relax the mesh
- Retopology tips and tricks
- Mirror the other half of the model
Conclusion
- Examine the finished model
- Next steps