Problems with workflow

[3dtodd]

After months of film work I finally have some free time to work with ZBrush. But I'm having problems getting a handle on the workflow.

I used ZSpheres to start then hit "A" to tweak it in polygon mode. I saved it and opened it later to work on it some more. But when it opened, all I had access to was the "Draw" tool. I couldn't go into Edit mode. What did I do wrong? How can I start editing it again?

[Jason Belec]

Did you save the tool or the file? If you saved the file it is a 3d image. If you saved the tool, you of course load it in under Tools, draw it on the canvas and eneter edit mode to continue working. If I miss understood, just say so, we'll get you sorted. ;)

[3dtodd]

That was it. I needed to save it as a tool. But, I have come across another issue. Symmetry. I need help with that.

How do I orient the ZSphere so that when I want to create symmetrical shapes they come out on the sides? I've been having it turn out like the attached image, where I click on the top ZSphere and drag, and the symmetrical "copy" comes out of the bottom ZSphere. What am I doing wrong there?

I've been watching video tutorials on this, but haven't seen any mention of this occurring.

zbrush_sym.JPG

[vincent1]

Looks like wrong axis for symmetry. Under transform, you will find symmetry axes you can click. Most likely you need x-axis symmetry. the orientation of the z-sphere is also important, you will want them to face the same direction and angle, i.e., if red half face a certain way, all should face the same way, unless you intentionally want it otherwise.

If symmetry is on, you will see TWO dots as you hover over the z-sphere, that's where the new z-sphere will sprout from. If you move until the two dots become one, you will sprout one z-sphere right in the centre.

[3dtodd]

Thanks, Vincent. Yea, I watched Glen Southern's tutorial and realized I need to have the ZSphere positioned so that the halves of ZSphere are separated with an "equator" - as in a North and South hemisphere.

I'll have to watch more "introductory" tutorials to get a grasp on the way ZBrush works. Like many new users I want to dive in and play in the sand. With more time and effort I'm sure I'll understand it better and enjoy it more. I'll try not to ask so many "newbie" questions.

Thanks again for everyone's help. Cheers.

[Jason Belec]

These might help you a little...

http://www.zbrushcentral.com/zbc/showthread.php?t=21407

http://www.zbrushcentral.com/zbc/showthread.php?t=9904&highlight=zsphere+challenge

[3dtodd]

Thanks, Jason.