Tremendous Characters

 

Textural Reference

Opposite is a quick demonstration of a character rendered with a claymation-style texture, shown here in an uncoloured state.

To highlight the technique, the frame rate has been deliberately reduced to mimic the feel of traditional stop-motion animation.

In this example, we’ve pushed the texture to a relative extreme to showcase what’s possible, though in the final piece we may choose to soften or refine the effect for balance.

 

Initial Reference

Using the reference images, we’ve developed a series of lively, expressive characters built from bold geometric shapes and strong lines.

We have now added a collection of 3D character renders created using the most recent feedback.

 

Character Base Sketches

We’ve used Adobe Illustrator’s beta Turntable tool to provide a rough impression of each character in three dimensions. These rotations are intended only as a guide - they are quick previews rather than final representations of the design.

 

Character 3D Renders

The characters feature eyes, mouths and eyebrows added in 2D to the 3D model. This allows for improved expression control and added flexibility.

 

Further Character Development

We’ve updated the characters in line with your feedback, focusing on dialing up the clay texture and ensuring the 3D models retain the personality and ethnicity of the original sketches.

Global A has been revised to read more clearly as Hispanic, with a modern jumper-and-collared shirt outfit replacing the vest and tie.

Global B has been redesigned closer to the 2D sketch, with styling simplified (removing necklace and blazer) in favor of a chic oversized shirt, straighter hair, and a younger, cooler feel.

Scale A retains her strong look with added hair definition and improved facial proportions.

Scale B now features the requested hair fade, along with a more youthful sweatshirt-and-tshirt outfit to replace the cardigan.

 

Further Character Development

Here’s a quick rundown of the changes:

  • All characters are now shown on a neutral #FAF8F5 background to help keep the focus on the designs.

  • Better mouth treatments so they sit more naturally within the claymation style.

  • Updated glasses to a classic black shell for a cleaner look.

  • Reverted the hairstyle you preferred, and recolored the sweater to better match your brand palette.

  • Tweaked sweater collar details so each character feels distinct. This needs to be done with geometry so have added some detailing to it and flattened it out a bit.

  • Warmed the skin tone and simplified lips on the final character for a more natural finish.