Action Hero - Mantis Man

[Moni-Poroni]

...I´m not sure if it´s been right what I wrote....maybe the meaning of it is different ^^

"I wonder every day how you manage to improve you even further"

I just wanted to say something like - I wonder how Mantis Man becomes better and better.... because everytime I look at him he looks perfect to me...
then you load up your latest version and it´s always a little bit better than the last one...altough I thought the last one was perfect
And I wonder what´s next... what can be better than perfect :D

[mantegra]

Those plates must have been a lot of work, I commend you on that, but hurry up and pose him already! ;)

[Drakelot]

Outstanding model and process ... fantastic so far Solid ...:tu:

[SolidSnakexxx]

skullbeast:
Thank you sir. updates are getting slower and slower due to New Year Holidays are over :(

Moni-Poroni:
That's very nice of you to say that. Your comments are great encouragement to me to continue on. Thank you, again.

mantegra:
The plates were tough when I was designing as I want them to interlock and still be organic in the end. I think I'll add more in the final form just want to get this phase done for now.

Drakelot:
Thank you :)

Daily Update:
I must say an hour of work is really thard to allocate these days.....when you are getting home at almost midnight....thanks to the traffic in Bangkok. Anyhow, I promised myself I would do it on a daily basis. So here I am.

I think the main form sculpt is done for now, I've added hair stuff to his right neck...making him more insect look while maintaining the left side clean cut. Also adding the spikes over the Raptorial arms. C&C are welcome. After your crits, I'll do the final form adjustment then go ahead with the Retopolgy of the head and the body.

progress_047.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('120624','progress_047.jpg', 1,0))

progress_048.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('120625','progress_048.jpg', 1,0))

[dustbin1_uk]

OK I take it back!!!! now you have those shoulder plates on the bug arm it looks amazing!!!

So are you thinking of using a comic book colour scheme or are you going to go for something darker?

I'm really eager to see this guy painted!

[zeke3d]

this is really starting to turn out!

[DAnconia]

Very nice. I would continue those shoulder plates up the neck. And only on that side. Would add another element of asymetry. Its just that the shoulder plates make his neck look really thin.

[KrakenCMT]

Very nice updates happening!

I should say that I like the sketch of the shoulder plate more as they flow into the arm better. In your sketch, they go from small to large on the way down. They still look nice here, but I think the design in the sketch has a more organic feel.

I took your last render into Photoshop - Liquify to show you what I mean.

Rev1.jpg

[Gohanf22]

OMG! OMG! OMG! Do you ever get tired of your greatness!? :lol: . I mean, your head should pop for how great you are. I'm loveing the look of the model, man. I can't wait til the retopology is done and what it will look like with colors and the final pose. Good Luck, man. I'm rooting you on. :cool: :tu:

[ravioli_rancher]

SolidSnakexxx,

Incredible detail. Do you plan one more retopology pass to make his plating just a bit sharper? Or maybe one more sub d level and a pinching marathon will do.

As mentioned by others, his feet still seem out of proportion to the rest of his features. Since he is a supermutant, I think you could get away with increasing the width of his toes and heels some.

That aside, his design, especially the torso plating is outstanding, and progressing quickly to Top Row hero status. :) :tu:

[SolidSnakexxx]

dustbin1_uk:
Glad you like him with the shoulder plates. I'll do some tweaking also...right now it's still a bit out of place. As for color scheme, I'm going for a darker tone....I want him to look scary....A scary hero that is.


zeke3d:
Thank you :) Your stuff's so marvelous as well.

DAnconia:
I think that's good idea. I'll play around wihtt hat after the Retopo body. Thanks for your suggestion.

KrakenCMT:
Wow, thank you for your kindness, your paint over is really helpful. I think your way is good...and make him more organic as well. I'll be sure to adjust this.. Again, much thanks for your effort to show me the way.

Gohanf22:
Very kind of you and glad to see you in a good mood once again. i'll be in the process of retopology today and hopefully coming back to fix minor areas like the shoulder plates, etc.

ravioli_rancher:
Yes, the Retopology would be the way to go. I want it crisp in certain areas. and then more details to be added afterward. The feet will need attention as well. Will think of a way to overcome this. And Thank you for your support :)

[chindian]

Dude - this is pretty sick... and i mean that in the slang and literal sense! haha... cuz i have a little phobia of insects up close... so this is kinda freakin me out... but in a good way i guess!
It's coming out awesome man... keep it up!

I think it needs more refinement between the plates and how they connect.. but i know it's till WIP... so expecting big things man! :tu:

[wethand]

it's coming soooo nicely along!!!
this big crushing arm is killer! but the whole sculpt...

with his blades he looks really cool!
looking forward!

[SolidSnakexxx]

chindian:
So you are scared of bugs :) Me too....their little hair do give me the creeps. As for the plates, lots to be refined after retopology. Let's hope I can get the topology done tonight :)

wethand:
That fearsome blade I modeled after the praying mantis in my back yard...they do look so fierce up close...these insects seem to be quite smart too.

Daily Updates:
Per KrakenCMT suggestion, I think it's quite a valid critique and is very useful. I'm a firm believer in good comments and alterations can improve my skill. So I decided to go back and re sculpt the shoulder plates. I think this time around it fits better. Here it is, please let me know what you think. Again, thank you KrakenCMT for your kindness in suggesting this. Now to topology.....

progress_49.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('120726','progress_49.jpg',1 ,0))

[wethand]

AAAHHH!!! this hair is AWESOME! it looks so nice!

bah... insects are not my favorite animals... just because of their HAIRY and FURY existence.... baaah, if a imagine this guy could crush my head with his hairy... arms...

it is going upwards

[henrysouth]

great work man, have u considered ur pose yet? cant wait! have u sculpted those hairs seperately?

[abe_Tamazir]

turning out reaaaally cool!

[dustbin1_uk]

I can't add any more than I have already said, so:

:tu::tu::tu::tu::tu::tu:

[Geser.]

I really like this clean sculpt. The head is great. Only siluette i'd like to see more curved.

[SolidSnakexxx]

wethand:
I spent quite a few hours on the hair. It was fun but quite laborious :) Thank you.

henrysouth:
Yes, I've been thinking a lot about the pose... If I only have time to sketch it down...I'll post for your considerations. And for the hair, originally I sculpted them individually..Later on I utilize Skullbeast idea but still a lot of individual moving and sculpting...it's fun.

abe_Tamazir
Thank you :) Glad you like him.

dustbin1_uk:
You are way kind with your comments . I also can't thank you enough.

Geser.:
Hopefully by the posing stage I'll have him be more dynamic..For now I just try to do the t-pose as best I could. Thank you so much :)

Daily Update:
All right. Although the sculpt's not complete, I want to get the topology ready for areas that need creases..So I decided to move on to the Retopology process. This is what I've got so far.... Hopefully I can get this head done tonight...


progress_50.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('120744','progress_50.jpg',1 ,0))

[Captain Sensible]

The shoulder plate definitely looks better. Beefs that arm up a bit.

[dustbin1_uk]

Retopology! It's both the most satisfying ( as you know your nearly there ) and the most frustrating part ( as your on a deadline )

But at least your computer should start running a bit quicker with all that detail!! ;)

How many poly's you got before retopo?

[SolidSnakexxx]

Captain Sensible:
Yes, it does give him an extra strong look, eh? Glad I listen to great C&C in this forum. I just love how welcome ZBC is. :D

dustbin1_uk:
Yes, redoing the topology at least means I'm getting somewhere :) What I'm trying to do is quite a semi dense base mesh...in order to hold the extra crisp lines. The original head has 1,105,920 Polygons but mostly get pushed in to make the plate shape. Hopefully with the retopology it will get better polygon utilization.

Tiny Update:
I was out for dinner but this is what I have so far....still a long way to go.

progress_51.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('120755','progress_51.jpg',1 ,0))

[JUPITER]

Looking FAAANNtasticc man.... :D

[KiVanDi]

Look greate. Love this work. :tu:

[Bret O'Connor]

Look forward to the pose and hope all the polygons go the way you want them.

[wethand]

it just gave me the idea, to retopo my guy, too.
it's nice to make density-values.

[Lucky_1]

He looks awesome yong and I really dig the transition you made(shoulder->arm)

Keep it up !

[Hamilcar]

Awesome work! great solution to the weak point on the shoulder, the detailsare coming along nicely :tu: :tu:

[SolidSnakexxx]

JUPITER, KiVanDi:
Thank you :)

Bret O'Connor:
Whew...retopology process is a time consuming process....hopefully I'll get the body done as my schedule planned out.

wethand:
Yeas, while it might be an extra process, I think it's a vital step in creating the model exact how you want it with polygon efficiency. When you get the hang of it, it's kind of fun and less mundane :)

Lucky_1:
Thanks, I've to also thanks people here for their kind and sincere comments that enable me to improve the model. This place(ZBC) is just so warm with kindness.

Hamilcar:
Thanks man, more details will sure follow...after the retop of the body for certain :)

Daily (Night) Update:
Whew, finally got the head retopology out of the way. I've tried to remain not too many polygon but still want to maintain certain crisp lines especially around the intersected plates, so it took me a long time. But after it's done. It's pretty worthwhile, as at subdivision level 4 I'd have 154208 the model can represent the shape and basic details of the old un-retopologise model at Subdiv 7 (1,105,920).

Here's the result of the fun topology work, the left side is the unorganized mesh and the right side is the topo-fixed.

It's nearly 1:30 AM here and I got to get up by 5 AM so I must excuse myself to my soft pillow :) good night guys/gals. Your C&C are most welcome.

progress_52.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('120809','progress_52.jpg',1 ,0))

[leandroloaiza]

amazing job!!! the concept and the shape are unique, shure you will be in the finals!!! :tu: :tu: :tu: :tu:

[wethand]

i think you did a great job on him so far! the topology looks really clean!
yeah, polygon efficiency is the right word! :)

[maxinkuk]

Nice job man, very even and clean and it'll look sharp. Hope you didn't get a headache doing that.

[gregoconn]

Your topology is looking nice. I think you'll get a good result from your hard work.

[KiVanDi]

I want to thank you for your eye creating guide. I`ve learned some new feature from there.

Very good work on retopology model.

[Moni-Poroni]

You´ve much done today
:eek: :eek: :eek: Amazing Topo :)
I´m really jealous ^^
How much time did it take?

Good night.. I bet you´re really tired now^^

[MindFX]

Yong, the Topology is looking great... can't wait to the final pose. Keep it up!

CHEERS!

[Y/Haüss]

Great Work!!!
Since your first post I'm watching closely the Jorney of the MantisMan...
Congratulations... It's one of my Favorites!!!

[SolidSnakexxx]

leandroloaiza:
Thank you :) I'm trying my best at this...so I can learn the most out of it.

wethand:
Thank you...He hee, that's the heavy word for me too... "polygon efficiency".

maxinkuk:
Thank you. It was not too bad actually.. Once you are on you get the riff of it rather quickly. But I do hand planning quite a bit before jumping into topology itself (Printout the image and lay rough polygon on)

gregoconn:
Thank you, sir. The topo of the head is important so I decided to put quite an effort on it. hopefully I will benefit form this in the end.

KiVanDi:
No problem there, mate. Knowledge is about sharing...and I've learned in this place by people sharing their techniques and ideas quite a bit. I'm glad people find the tips I posted useful.

Moni-Poroni:
It took me a good hour and half but with some planning ahead. I know one thing though....late night retopology requires...energy drink...and eye drops...(Only things I'd like to get improved in the future on retopology tool would be the ability to zoom in infinitely and no more see through retop lines the other side as sometimes I get confused...)

MindFX:
Thank you sir. In a day or so, I should have time to do sketches for action pose. I look forward to your comments as well.

Y/Haüss:
I like that..."the Journey of the Mantis Man" He's been traveling far from the first post...and Thank you so much for being one of your fav entries.


Small minute Daily Update:
I did a small cleanup on the topology a bit so I decided to show the quick build up to higher res in Animated GIF. Here it is.

animated_gif.gif (javascript:zb_insimg('120923','animated_gif.gif', 1,0))

[ISK-86]

You're so great.... :tu:
Im following closeley this thread, and learning so much from here.
Really Nice topology... Is there any zbrusher out there who doesn't like to sculpt late night??? :lol:

[Harmonic]

Wow that is some nice topo work! I need to redo mine soon, if I can get it half that good I will be so stoked!

[chindian]

Nice work on the retopo man... :tu:

So wow... u retopo in zb eh? That's kool... ever tried doin it in an external program like XSI or 3DSMax or Maya?.... That's the way I do it now since I've learnt how to reproject details back onto a new mesh topo from an external program...
Saves me tones of time!
ZB's retopo tool is kool an all - but a bit slow since u have to start from scratch all the time - and u don't have all the nifty modeling tools like in XSI, etc... Just a suggestion I guess... but wutever the workflow - u're rockin out hardcore on this model!

Lookin great! :cool:

[N8]

This is all very well done snake! That head is perfect!

[gregoconn]

Heya Snake, this seems to be coming along very nicely and you are getting lots of well deserved posetive comments. I thought I'd try and give you some constructive crit. At the moment the only thing I can see about the head is that everything is super symmetrical even your bumps and dints. I'd be great to see some a symmentrical wear and tear as you go along!

All the best at keeping to your deadline. I'm finding it very head to stay on schedual as I have very limited time myself so I feel your pain.

[skullbeast]

thats a nice and clean re-top! :tu: :tu: :)

[wethand]

yeah! nice like already said! :)

i just wanted to say, i mentioned you in my thread. you inspired me to retopo a second time. when i saw your topology, i realized, my new topo was the same crap, like without retopo...
your topo helped me to realize, that i have to simplify my model, when retopo it.

so thanks for teaching me without teaching me! :)

[SolidSnakexxx]

ISK-86:
Thank you man. I'm learning a great deal viewing other threads too. This contest is so fun and so..resourceful. And yeah....night sculpting's fun and I can be very focus as it's so silent....

Harmonic:
Yours is already looking wonderful as is..I think once you have retopologized, the model would also be more efficient.

chindian:
Much appreciated for your kind comment. Yes, since I've started the project I've been on ZBrush only mainly to improve my ZSkills. I've tried out 3DCoat for Retopology as well. But I think ZBrush has quite a handful of tool/technique to redo topology.I'll be sure to check out XSI as you mentioned.. Do they have like a trial version?

N8:
Thank you :) All the hard works retopologising on the head is now quite relieved when I read such a kind comment like yours.

gregoconn:
I'm so thrilled to know quite a few people do like my character so far. You are right...the asymmetry stuff shall be added. I was trying to tke as much advantage to the symmetry topology build up as possible. Then I think I'll go full detailing again soon.

skullbeast:
Thank you. Cleaning the topology is not so bad after all :)

wethand:
You are so kind and I'm deeply honored to read that you mentioned me in your thread...I'm glad my topo work can be of your help (indirectly). I like this "....thanks for teaching me without teaching me!"

Daily Update:
Now onto the body retopologizing. Still a long way to go but this has to start somehow. I'm not too concern about the tight polygon but I want the topologised poplygons to be useful in the end. Here's the progress so far.

ZSphere Topology Mode:

progress_053.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('120940','progress_053.jpg', 1,0))

Preview Mode:

progress_054.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('120941','progress_054.jpg', 1,0))

[- FoOD -]

This model is really coming along ....good job

[faman]

topology to see goods can't wait for see more :lol: :lol:

[goldo_O]

Your talent and hard work is very inspiring Yong! Keep it up, I can't wait to see your Mantis Man in some real action! :cool: :tu:

[Flack]

Great work on the toplogy thus far. I do not envy the retopology job you have to do. Looking great, keep it up!

[Captain Sensible]

Jeez! Every day I look at this and there's always a cool update. You are really going to town on this and I sincerely hope it pays off for you :tu:

[SolidSnakexxx]

- FoOD -:
Thank you man :)

faman:
Thanks, the topo is one long / hard process...

goldo_O:
Thank you for your kind compliments. I'm also can't wait for the topo process to complete...I'm dying to get onto texturing...Argggh..

Flack:
Hahahah I know retopologty work is such a pain.....to complete once started! Whew...I still have a long way to go..

Captain Sensible:
Thaat's very nice to hear that. I try to do this on a daily basis as time would allow....and I wish to have more time....

Daily(Night) Updates:
Again almost 1 AM and I'm still fiddling with Retopology. This is what I have so far...Still have the arm hand and the feet to go...It's been a few hours....of retopo work..my hands are getting tired....whew...hopefully this part will be done by tomorrow.

progress_0055.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121002','progress_0055.jpg' ,1,0))

[GregStrangis]

Wow man! I give you so much credit for sticking it through to the end! Topology is looking mean man keep it up you are almost there :D

[petekasim]

Man, that's a whoooooole lotta work, but you've done it very well!

Are you planning on rigging this guy at some stage? The topology looks like it would work fantastically for animation.....

Anyway, I'm loving it so far, one of the top entries in my opinion

[VitorFerreira]

Dude! This an hell of a hard work. I can't belive how much that took to you. It is really impressive the amount of work that is there.

[dustbin1_uk]

Looking awesome as ever! you must have dead wrists and fingers by now with all the ctl and clicks you have to make! LOL

Here's a question for you:

Can you retopologise a mesh and then inherit the poly groups from the mesh you are retopologising?

[fluxist8070]

Your topology is looking really nice. I also like how your armor fits individual muscle groups. Keep it up! Really nice.

[therasoft]

Mantis Man is looking tight. I really enjoyed your descriptions of the setup for his life. Very cool. Thanks for showing us your process and keeping us posted on your decision process.

[Hamilcar]

wow! nice job on the topo :tu:

[wethand]

you are the topo-master! for real

[threetails]

wow, your really going for it. the topology is complex, and it looks so good. nice work.

[vincenzi]

Can't believe you're retopologizing! You could have gotten away with high poly surface detail on that one although having the edgeloops run along the edge of the details is always better. Props to you, and good luck!

[chindian]

Hey - great work so far on the retopo... u got lots of patience man! haha... but what i meant about using XSI for retopo is more that you use an external 3d modeling program to remodel a base mesh/ new topo mesh over the old mesh - then bringin it back into zb to reproject the details onto the new mesh.
That just usually works out quicker for me - since u have alot more modeling tools in XSI or other 3d modeling packages... (edge tools, extrusion, etc...)
But wutever works for u...

Keep it up! :tu:

[SolidSnakexxx]

GregStrangis:
Thank you :) Yes, almost there but not quite.....finished...Will complete this by today after work that is.

petekasim:
It's a lot of work but I think it's all worth it. Coming from film industry background, I think topology is one of the most important things. I'm in the process of changing the work flow here as well to sculpt first, topo later. As this would serve to do both concept sketch for our director/art director more efficiently. As they would look for form first but in the end, the topology has to be there for a good animation. I'm thinking of the poses at the moment and will draw quick sketches soon. Thank you for your support :)

VitorFerreira:
Yes, it's taking quite some time. But it's a good thing as it allows me to examine every single areas I've sculpted and allows me to further plan the details, etc. Thanks man :)

dustbin1_uk:
Hahahah you are are right....I have to stop at 1:30 AM so I could get some sleep but even in my sleep I would think about how to proceed to the next topoline...it's insane.. But the thing is I don't think you can inherit the poly groups from the mesh you are retopologising. I will most likely reassign them again as it's not that difficult or time consuming to do so.


fluxist8070:
Thank you. The idea is to wrap the topo around areas that needs extra poly and from my test so far it holds pretty good shape especially the creases area. And of course to follow the muscle group.

therasoft:
You are very welcome. In fact, I should be thanking you for looking.

Hamilcar:
Thank you....I now have the topo wrist.....syndrome.

wethand:
I like that title...."topo-master" sounds liek a kungfu master but a bit geeky...hee hee :)

threetails:
Yup, I'm trying to go all the way, try not to cheat but also try to conform to my schedule as best I could...Thank you for your support as always.

vincenzi:
I know, I know...but on the original model I started to feel the lag and thinking certain areas are not really optimized...So the decision was made to do so..in order to gain extra poly in areas needed.

chindian:
Hahhaha, patience....yes...and lots of hot tea to keep my eyes focused on the lines...(Especially when they are snapping). You are right about the external tool being used for Topo work. I'll definitely have to check in on that as well.


Tiny Daily Update:
Just slight alterations to the topoline, mainly moving lines around overall before continue completing the Retopology work. Here's the ZSphere construct of the topoworks.


progress_056.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121114','progress_056.jpg', 1,0))

[gregoconn]

Nice topology and flow. It looks like your neck muscles might be running diagonally across you rmesh though?

[SolidSnakexxx]

gregoconn:
You are right. I'll be fixing that for certain. Thank you for your crit. Very helpful. :)

[JUPITER]

Looking good,just wondering why you wouldn't just paint the topo on and then add the details by hand,wouldn't that save alot of time??

[faman]

Supers flow topology :lol: :lol: :lol:

[dismantled]

it is so cool to see topo in action...

[SolidSnakexxx]

JUPITER:
I was thinking about using paint the topo on as well, but then the topo I planned out on paper look a lot different than the one on the base sculpt. So I decided to take the long route.

faman:
Thank you for your complement :)

dismantled:
These 3 days are all about Topology.... My mind has already wander to other stages... heehee

Minor Topo Update....(Glad it's almost completed)
This retopology is rally taking some time....but with patience, I should come with the mesh that's also work well for topological masking....that's the main idea behind all the 3 days of work..to make the transpose process more predictable (At least for me) I'm still indecisive of the pose....but have several in plan at the moment. Anyhow here's the latest topo...only the humna arm left...Wahoo...

progress_057.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121173','progress_057.jpg', 1,0))

[dustbin1_uk]

Man look at that!! Ain't it beautiful!!

See it goes to show that what I do is a bad habit!!

I just get the general shape and then let a higher resolution adaptive skin and projection do the rest, but this is uber efficient topology here!

One thing I do, I go up about 6 levels in the adaptive skin resolution use projection to get the details again, export that level out as an OBJ.

Then I go back down as low as I can go in resolution, make that adaptive skin into a mesh, Subdivide up 6 levels and import the mesh I exported earlier. That way I then have a sub-divided retopologised mesh. Handy!! :D

Do you do something similar?

[SolidSnakexxx]

:) dustbin1_uk, sometimes, I just love looking at those lines sipping a can of beer and see how the lines interact.

In fact, what I do is even simpler..As the Retopology tool has the projecting function build in . The steps I normally do are:

1. set the preview adaptive skin while I'm working on the topology to around 4-5 (As this should be more than sufficient for the new topology-it's denser with all the topo lines needed.)

2. The preview normally shows pretty accurate details I put on. (If I do need more subdivision I can also go up from here.) Bear in mind the bigger the subdivision, the longer it takes to preview projection

3. Simply hit the magic "Make Adaptive Skin" Button.

4. I'm left with the subdivision levels I created in the retopo process.

[dustbin1_uk]

Um...... OH YEAH!!! woah I did not realise that it did that!! :o

Thanks mate!!! :D

[wethand]

same here.

i can't imagine any simpler retopo tools than in zbrush. just draw the topology, project the details and you are done. without importing, exporting and exploding meshes... very simple.

anyway, the idea with the topological masking is awesome. i'll try that directly. thanks for that word again, solid!

your thread is one of my favorites! its very helpful and its progressing just awesome! keep it up mate!

[SolidSnakexxx]

dustbin1_uk:
Yeah. ZBrush is like the black magic of 3D World, eh?

wethand:
Yup. The Retopology tool once you get its grip, it's quite all right. Except for one I've mentioned earlier would be the snapping point when I gets zoomed in but not able to zoom in enough. However, I've managed to overcome that issue I think from reading one of the threads here..

1. What I then do (Like in my case the hand) certain part separately and save as a tool and then once the main body's completed, I'd load in the hand mesh then swap the body reference mesh out.

2. To swap out the base all you have to do is deactivate teh "Edit Topology" Then click on "Delete Mesh" in Rigging Submenu. Then of course click "select Mesh" to load in the already finished retopology hand

3. Then use the JUPITER suggestion to paint out the topology. The rest would be just connecting the topology lines between the two..

Minor Daily Update:
Of course I couldn't resist my crave to test out the topological masking with the unfinished model. This is by no mena the suggested pose for Mantis Man I was just testing out here and there about the topo line and how I might improve in the course of retopology. With the retopology, I think I can use the topological masking quite easily as it flow along the lines I've laid out.

progress_058.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121192','progress_058.jpg', 1,0))

[SirNeo]

looks very good, progress amazing, i'll watch this thread:tu:

[jp_smith]

Man Yong that's one crazy detailed retop! Have you considered that his feet might be a little bit small? I'm looking at the size of his human arm and the rule for feet is that they're typically the length of your forearm and yours seems a tad short by that standard. I also think it might help balance him out and give him some more weight if his feel were more substantial (since there's so much volume up top with that massive mantis arm). Just my suggestion. Looking great bud! :tu: :tu:

Jason

[dustbin1_uk]

Can I convince you and Alex to co-author a book on ZBrush? I'd buy it!!! :D

[SolidSnakexxx]

SirNeo:
Thank you :)

jp_smith:
Yes, I'm planning to increase the feet size. Thank you so much for reminding me about the size. I almost forgot (Will transpose increase before the posing stage). Your Overwatch is extremely well done, one of the best to say the least.

dustbin1_uk:
Hahahah You are again very kind. I'm still his apprentice, I dare not match up with my master. :)

Topology Update:
All done! Finally the body retopology is completed! The next step I'm pondering over would be

1. The pose
2. The texturing.

I'm still not certain which way to go just yet..but need the answer soon.

Question:
What do you guys think? If I were to texture before the pose, do you think the texture will get stretched/squashed as a result of transposing? If that's the case my answer is clear....to texture at the last step.

Here's the retopologised version.

progress_059.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121209','progress_059.jpg', 1,0))

Problems I encountered and how I solved it.
BTW, something odd happened, don't know why...when I tried to project the details using the method I posted earlier the system just crashed. But then I realized that the polygon normals were flipped. So what I had to do was:

1. Make an adaptive skin without projecting the details.

2. Do a normal Flip...by going to Tool > Display > Flip.

3. Load up the reference model and the new flipped normal one as subtools

4. Increase subdiv on the new retop version.

5. With the retop subtool active and the reference model visible, I then hit ProjectAll which brings back all the sweet details.

[cmoffitt]

Oh MAN! The pose is looking superb! Nice work on all the details. This one is really coming along nicely.

[Moni-Poroni]

Retopoloy is done :)
Really really cool... :tu:
I´m looking forward to the posing video :D

[wethand]

i bet you had this problems on his hand? do you mean, some of the polys are flipped and some are ok? or the whole part?
i had problems with flipped polys in the past. it was on the hand. i remember, i wanted them all to be quads, and that was the reason. i hope you know what i mean if you see my sketch... ^^ it looks terrible, but i didn't want to model it...

handsporblem.jpg (http://javascript%3Cb%3E%3C/b%3E:zb_insimg%28%27121238%27,%27handsporblem.jpg% 27,1,0%29)

and to the question with the pose. if you want to keep him in zbrush, you can texture him and pose him afterwards. just remember you are painting on polygons, so the texture shouldn't stretch to hard.
i'll go this way: texture and pose afterwards.

just trying to inspire you :)

anyway, very clean work! want to see this in action!

[SolidSnakexxx]

cmoffitt:
I'm glad I get the retopology work out of the way. :)

Moni-Poroni:
Thank you... I might go for texturing first..but then in the mean while, I'll be posing the pose ideas for you to help me out deciding :)

wethand:
Actually the problem was all over...the model..I didn't notice at first. But after I've made the adaptive skin out of it, I looked at the Display area and it has"double" activated...which normally left out. Then I deactivated it, the model just show inside out. So I know the normals were flipped. But I do know what you mean about the flipped polys man...they are pain in the neck...to check out.

I'll take your advice and do the texture first... Hopefully I'll have enough poly to do the nice poly painting on. :)

[SolidSnakexxx]

Daily Updates:
Now the details have been projected (But more details have yet to be added) I continued on the very small but want to make it right...area...the antennae. It took me a good half an hour on that sucker...then using Inflat brush to bulge interconnecting tube.

This would be the last update for tonight.....Been up too many nights..and tomorrow I still have work to do. Will be thinking about the texture of this guy.....I'm thinking going for reddish color as oppose to green (The Mantis do come in several colors....only the green ones are more common) as it looks more fierce.

progress_060.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121250','progress_060.jpg', 1,0))

[ISK-86]

:eek:

Everyday this looking better... I like so much the tiny hairs in the neck!

[dustbin1_uk]

Hey looking really cool!

That Mat shows off those details a really nice!!

Is it a custom mat? Fancy sharing?

[Drakelot]

Awesome update ... xcellent hairs and eyes

[gang]

great update SolidSnakexxx
its looking great man :tu: :tu: :tu: :tu: :tu::tu::tu::tu:

[petekasim]

stunning......... you've been working so hard, you really deserve a lot of recognition for your skill and efforts :tu: :tu: :tu: :tu: :tu:

Keep it coming!

[industripop]

this guy is coming along great! i can just see him lopping off multiple heads with that huge claw arm, in one big swoop! can't wait to see this dude in action.

[toddworld]

Looking super! I second the 'red' color. Much more dramatic.


Todd

[dirkrulz]

Whoa, amazing stuff. Cant believe the details in the legs. Your model has come a long way since ur designs.

[fishadder]

Wow! Man! this is insane!!!

keep this up the detail is amazing cant waite to see this posed and coloured!

[KrakenCMT]

Cool mat! It really brings out the details nicely.

[MDGeist]

Looks really cool :o i especially like the design of the armor. u have a great modelling skill. How did u make the eyeballs?

[jar3d]

WOW, SolidSnakexxx this is looking brilliant! The re-topo work you've put in is really starting to show. I love the level of detail you've managed to cover. I agree totally with the red or reddish colour, green is a little too "nice" but red is a statement. Get some sleep / rest and then get into the texturing with a recharged mind, I'm sure it will look fantastic.

[Moni-Poroni]

:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: ( I need more and more of those smileys^^)
But today I don´t only admire your talented work...( lol...this sentence sounds really wrong regarding the grammar ^^)
Today I´ve got a question :)

The material you´ve chosen for the last update image... are you going to use it for the final ?
and just texture it/paint on it?
Because I think it´s a perfect match...
Cool buggy style:cool:

[languidcorpse]

Total sweetness!

[squeige]

I hadn`t seen this thread in a while, I gotta say what a beautiful thread. You have shown so much and shown such level of creativity using z-brush I truly believe you are already a winner regardless of outcome.

[*sparks]

I'm inspired by the amount of detail you got going. Although you might have some issues printing out those tiny hairs.

[GarciaD42]

I like how you think about the design function and not just a design for the sake of it looking like eye candy. It reminds me of the crysis suits and the new batman suit.

[SolidSnakexxx]

ISK-86:
Thanks man :) Your words always make me jump into ZBrush ad get to work.

dustbin1_uk:
The material was one my friend sent me...the name is Rogelio-clay 5...Not sure whether whom should I thank the person created it. (I'll post in this thread as well below)

Drakelot:
Thank you sir, your stuff's progressing well too.

gang:
Thanks man, just saw your topo work, it's looking great so far.

petekasim:
Hahahah just some late nights...fun with ZBrush...kind of addiction now....daily shot of Brush always does you good.

industripop:
Thanks man... I'm happy you like him :)

toddworld:
Glad you like the red...I'll definitely do a lot of test before actual texturing.....if I have time that is

dirkrulz:
Thank you, the journey for the Mantis Man has just begun....(Still many things I want to do with him)

fishadder:
The color work should start tonight....If I have enough energy that si after reading through the plethora of cool entries...

KrakenCMT:
The material's really good in showing minute details.. I've attached below..I wish I know who created it so I can thank him on the forum.

MDGeist:
The making of Eyeball was simply using tillable alpha and the Stencil feature... I've put a mini tut on http://www.pixolator.com/zbc/showpost.php?p=517461&postcount=152 Since this contest started, I've been using techniques and stuff to stay in ZBrush only....

jar3d:
Yeah, the Retopo hard work's really paying off... for me. and thank you for supporting "red" :) I'll try my very best.

Moni-Poroni:
Very kind of you with all the smileys....your comments make me want to work harder.. The material I chose is Rogelio Clay MapCap which I do nto recall who did it but I'm grateful for it's great at displaying details..I've attached in this thread as well. But I'll most likely use another material for actual coloring.

languidcorpse:
Thank you....very sweet comment :)

squeige:
Thank you so much for your kind words..and I'm honored you like my model.

*sparks:
Thank you so much. ...Hmm..you think the hair will be problematic? I've been thinking about the other method of using just sculpting..but that's easy to accomplish...If ...I even win the print that is.... But for now I jsut want to go fourth with as much details I could get. :)


Daily Update:
Not quite update...Just want to notify that I'm working out on 2 things:

1. The overall color design....which I'm still indecisive......but have narrowed down to reddish...color.

2. The pose....this work I'll do while I'm away from my ZBrush installed PC.......


I also would like to thank the person who created and shared Rogelio Clay MapCap that I've received..So I've attached in this thread as well.

:idea:
BTW, there are so many contestants...and I just finished reading most of them and they are amazing.....Since the contest entry deadline's past. I'd like to say... This contest is cool and I sure think we all will learn a lot from one another....So..Good Luck to you all.... :)

[wethand]

ohhhh man! sorry i missed that last update! damn nice!!!
this hair. man, this is outstanding!
and sorry i missunderstood you... i'm just a hobbyist who wants to help... :)

so... keep it up! i want to see this finished!

[dustbin1_uk]

Thank you!! This looks so nice on some of my models!

Thanks again!

[Shapeworldwide]

I like the loose sketches. Then you can play around with ideas really fast.
Already we canhave a sense of both sides of the character. Also my next step.

[SolidSnakexxx]

wethand:
Thank you man. I;m also hoping to finish it in time..as I see many projects (Works) coming my way....it will be tough to keep both at bay.

dustbin1_uk:
You are very welcome.

Shapeworldwide:
Thank you. I like doing sketches loosely but still defined enough to be able to identify certain elements.

Daily Update:
Today's an experiment day with basic texture. As I'm going for a dirty looking texture I started out filling the mesh (the head test) with some brownish color then using polypaint to start out base color of red then laying some dark colors texture atop. I'm still not quite sure about it... But here's the result so far.

head_animated.gif (javascript:zb_insimg('121496','head_animated.gif' ,1,0))

[jackdaniels666]

Nice, texture is looking good.

[Y/Haüss]

Man... It's looking fine.... I've learned to texturize in ZBrush in Polypaint following the techinique of AirBrush... Here you can see my Last Job: http://web.me.com/betoprado/3D/pumpkin_2.html

And here an explanation of how to get the results with his techinique:
http://www.zbrushcentral.com/zbc/showthread.php?t=64252&page=1&highlight=wild+life

Hope you enjoy it and Help you with your fantastic hero!!!

[GregStrangis]

Liking the texture so far man, also can't wait to see your pose :)

[Marsyas]

Super-awesome work you're doing here, SolidSnakexxx. Definitely inspires me to try harder. :tu:

[DAnconia]

Uhhhhh.....not really feeling the colors. I would not go with multiple colours starting off. Set up a basic skin colour and then add variances on top of that. Right now your base colour has nothing to do with your colour scheme. The brown and red isnt working for me. The last material you had on that was like midnight blue would be perfect. Just add a few variances of that colour. Accentuate the grooves you have in the armour with the complimentary colour. The spikes you can colour anything within red, blue, orange or yellow. The muddy look you have right now is going to confuse the detail you have worked so hard to achieve. Keep it simple.

Otherwise your thread has been an inspiration to me when i thought i was done for the night. i would come here and see that i needed to stay up and work harder.

[skullbeast]

hey snake I found a few pic online if you want em' for ref.

7557974-md.jpg 3935345-md.jpg 5099207-lg_2.jpg 5803199-lg.jpg 5084991-md.jpg mantis_mouth2.jpg 5756887-lg.jpg 7308808-md.jpg 6505200-md.jpg

[wethand]

i like the textures very much!

[MDGeist]

Cool progress u have here :) I think the texture fits very well. Do u just polypainted them or do u use zapplink ?

[SOLcreator]

Love your work on Mantis Man, you've got a really powerful eye and imagination.

It is a pleasure and honor to soar in the skies with you on this contest.

Love, Magic, Light
- SOL

[gang]

texture is looking great :tu:

[Moni-Poroni]

Woooooooow....this is looking so promising.. :) !!!!!!!!!!!!!
I really like the dirty way you´re going (sounds weird :lol: lol )
I hope you know what I´m talking about ^^
---->I love the brownish colours...;)
I´ve seen some real Mantis in my parents backyard...
but they were all green...
I think the brown version you´ve chosen suits him much better....:)

Your Mantis-Man looks really true-to-life :tu: :tu: :tu: :tu:
Keep up your fantastic work...

I´m looking forward for moooore :D

[Fess]

Woah, nice progress on the mantis man. I also like the colours you ve picked for him, much better than what nature could come up with imo. :)

[jempix]

Great work with the polypaint. He's a really solid design. I always loved the idea of using the preying mantis. Bugs are cool inspiration. I also like how you decided to break the symmetry. (The one big bug arm rocks)

[TheProCreator]

This one is the one to watch! Great sculpting and amazing textures. I'm looking forward to more!

[luis2008]

mmmmm yummy. its looking really good. nice texture work and the model speaks for itself :D

[SolidSnakexxx]

jackdaniels666:
Thank you sir :) The texture itself I think will go through several adjustments...I'm still not liking the result....

Y/Haüss:
Oh thank you for the links...After I watched it, I think I will do it a bit differently.... Thanks man.

GregStrangis:
Thank you :) The pose is coming along...in my head...for now

Marsyas:
Your complements are very kind, thank you so much.

DAnconia:
You are absolutely right...I'll redo the whole thing over tonight..Your fresh eyes can really help me..in this case the horrid of bad texture....I'll definitely try to improve this.

skullbeast:
Thank you so much...wow! they are so vivid.....These are great ref...Thank you so much, skullbeast :)

wethand:
Thank you...Look out for its texture...it will get changed drastically.

MDGeist:
At the moment just Polypainting with standard brush only...it's fun.....but again texture will be changed quite a bit...I'm even not sure about the brown...may be the green...Hmmmmm... lots of thinking to do.

SOLcreator:
Thank you for your kind words. It's an honor for me to be your Zfriend too :)

gang:
Thanks mate, what's your process on coloring? Any tips?

Moni-Poroni:
Thank you, miss. I'll try a different palette. See how it goes. :) Glad you like what I have so far.

Fess:
Thanks...after all he's a freak of science. :)

jempix:
Thank you, the Raptorial blade arm is one I'm going to have fun with..they are so menacing even in real mantis.

TheProCreator:
Thank you sir :)

luis2008:
Thank you...I'll continue to try my best at this contest :)


:idea: Daily Update:
Not much really....As I'm still pondering over the texture and the new technique I'm trying out. In the mean while, I stepped back ward a little and try to organize....the polygroup..Here's the result...

grouped.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121580','grouped.jpg',1,0))

[snoopalu]

lol cool i like the one mantis arm. lol =)

[warriah_021]

just wanted to pop in and say this model is looking fantastic. you nailed the proportions perfectly. nice texture test as well

[threetails]

love the retopo, and your ref for textures are great. looking cool.

[notecg]

bewtiful Very most!!!

[SolidSnakexxx]

snoopalu:
:) This arm will rip anything apart...hee hee. Just kidding. Thanks for your comment.

warriah_021:
Hey there. I was just admiring your sculpt works on the other thread..your stuff's super cool. And thank you for popping in, you are more than welcome to provide me C&C as I see you are quite an expert, so your comments would be most valuable.

threetails:
Thank you sir. The texture's getting revamped...Hope you like it better..

notecg:
Thank you so much krub :) Glad to see some Thai people on this forum.

:idea: Daily Updates:
Last night I had a conversation with my girlfriend regarding the texture of the Mantis Man. She was mentioning about the Mantis is being known as green all over the world and that's already set as the color of Praying Mantis (Although they do come in various color and shape...like the ref Skullbeast provided...Thank you mate..)

But if he were to appear and have..sudden recognition...the green might not be the bad idea. So today I've spent sometime...repainting everything from scratch..only on Polypaint...and it's quite fun..almost like my old times airbrushing...only not having to clean the airbrush head or other hard stuff... Here's the result of the initial test (The details and such will be added after the overall colorization's set.) Thanks to DAnconia to yank me back and redoing the texture. So far I liek it better than the last texture test... The eye I decided to go a bit odd as if I set it green it would be a bit bland...so orange/yellow might break he monotonous coloring.

Please let me know what you guys think as this is stil la WIP texture / mat testing

progress_062.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121608','progress_062.jpg', 1,0))

[skullbeast]

Most excellent update! may I suggest some of that eye color edging and accenting the inner mouth highlights. Well done This is gonn'a be great! :tu: :tu: ;)

[threetails]

looking good, hey how do you do those little animations anyway.

[wethand]

that looks awesome!

[- FoOD -]

Lookin cool ....

Colour is nice ......reminds me of a old school jap monster ..the ones that are the size of buildings :D

I only got one crit - the feet dont seem to have the same level of design you put into the rest of the model ..only thing thats buggin me ...apart from that model lookin wicked :tu:

[LeXuSMalus]

beautiful polypainting. :tu:

[Moni-Poroni]

Hey..the green version looks awesome too :) :) :)
You´ve used a really cool green range of colours.
I think this is a perfect match :)
Some mantis are very neon green...I think that wouldn´t look good...
(might look too friendly...^^ and would fit better to a mantis-women ^^)
but the version you´ve chosen rocks:tu:

BTW-It´s impossible that Mantis-Man will look ugly...
even if you paint him yellow, pink or whatever :lol:

[BARON_3D]

OH !!! Very nice painting :tu: :tu: :tu:
____________________
Sea Creature (http://www.zbrushcentral.com/zbc/showthread.php?t=66002&page=2&pp=15)
(http://showthread.php?t=66002&page=2&pp=15)

[wethand]

just took a closer look to the eyes... they look very realistic! respect!

[dustbin1_uk]

WOAH!!! That looks awesome!!! Can't wait to see the whole thing!!!

When this is over you're going to have to Metal Ray this guy!!!:tu::tu:

[SolidSnakexxx]

skullbeast:
Thank you, the eye will definitely need some tweaking/recoloring. Just want some color in for a moment.. Will post more for you to help out deciding.

threetails:
Thanks man :) The animation was done by saving up each step of the progress as tool then I load them in the same position then export out each image as .psd then I make a short animation out of it in Photoshop (Under the menu Windows > Animation)

wethand:
Thank you sir. The eyes still needs some love...I'll do the color again per skullbeast suggestion.

- FoOD -:
:) He's a monster looking hero, eh? Thank you for crtiting the legs, I'll be sure to make them equally well across the body. Thank you for remindign me that.

LeXuSMalus:
Texturing has never been this fun, before I was using old school texturing method..but this is by far the best..you can paint rotate/ paint much like air brushing... I'm addicted!

Moni-Poroni:
That's very sweet of you..such a nice comment.

BARON_3D:
Thank you... I'm just in love with poly painting as a process...very elegantly design program...ZBrush that is.

dustbin1_uk:
Thank you (^_^) I'm amazed at hoe ZBrush can handle materials and stuff..

:idea: Daily (night) Update:
It's Sunday night here....and I can't think of anything better but PolyPainting. It's crazy fun and addictive like...hard core drugs.

Small update to the head before I'm heading to bed...(after reading other entries that is). I've added more color to the antennae the 3 simple eyes. These elements as I've planned out so they may have different materials. Here is the initial result... (Most likely will change here and there to make things fit better) Your C&C are most welcome.

progress_063.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121641','progress_063.jpg', 1,0))

The Material/SubDiv Break down

progress_064.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121642','progress_064.jpg', 1,0))

[lander]

wow that is a kick ass concept translated to a even cooler model. So here there are only whoo and wows. Cool stuff. Very inspiring.

[VitorFerreira]

Wow, really like it green. Outstanding stuff mate. You are actually responsible for my lack of productivity on my entry, everytime I see the amount of work you been doing here I get depressed...

[GregStrangis]

Love the head Snake, looks gritty but vibrant at the same time. Perfect :tu: :tu: :tu:

[smeagol]

its coming along really awosome mate !

good luck :tu:

[MindFX]

That looks awesome, Yong. Love the texture, just the eye color seems too bright for me. Keep it up.

[askutt]

I think the head looks great, the hairs rock and the eyes look awesome too. great color scheme it makes everything really pop

[Marsyas]

The latest color test is awesome. :tu: Love the way the eyes stand out.

[Drakelot]

Most impressive polypaint ... yes, green is perfect for this guy. Xcellent eyes too.

[jp_smith]

Really nice work on the paint job Yong, when will you start testing out some poses? :tu:

Jason

[fluxist8070]

Wow!
The detail on this character is really looking fantastic! The textures are looking nice too! You are really pushing the development of this character and it shows! Nice Job.

[Ismail W]

Very nice!!!!:cool: Extremely impressive and inspiring.:) Thanks for sharing.:D

[bryzol]

Wow! You've started painting processs already and it's looking great. What you are doing here is a fantastic piece of art!
Buy the way, I gues that you are most active user of this forum! How are you finding time to be everywhere in here. It's amazing! Congrats!

[maxinkuk]

Very good texture, I agree with the view that green throughout is much better, the previous test was confusing. Good work man.

[wethand]

i don't have to say that this is one of my favorite threads! in my opinion the texture before was already really good. but this one looks really realistic.

i don't know much about texturing. nice progress!

[SolidSnakexxx]

lander:
Thank you so much. I'm glad I finally go with the green....it's a more real mantis look. Right now I'm using these 2 intermixing color green / reddish orange.. These guys are my inspirations (Along with what Skullbeast posted.)

ref02.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121790','ref02.jpg',1,0))

VitorFerreira:
Glad you feel the same about the green. I was feeling bad about making you lacking productivity..But then I visited your thread and it's like you've got amazing...stuff going on there. Your stuff rocks. :)

GregStrangis:
Heheheh I like that word "gritty but vibrant." I'll do my best :)

smeagol:
Thank you, mate for popping in :)

MindFX:
Many Thanks, I think I'll tone down the eye color like many suggested... Maybe still in warm color but less bright as you stated. Thank you for your kind crits.

askutt:
Thank you...the main reason why I chose the eyes and the 3 simple eyes to be different warm color than the rest of the body is to make sure he's not too monotone..and add some character to him. Glad you like it :)

Marsyas:
Thank you. I think I'm satisfy with the color test and will carry on to his entire body tonight.

Drakelot:
Yes, Poly paint is mind blowing for me...Since starting the poly painting I have yet to change any settings except the draw size and RgbIntensity...ZBrush's meant to be used to paint! Now I know that....Kudos to Pxiologic.

jp_smith:
Thank you...Funny you are asking about the poses. I just about to finish a few and would love to have your eyes looking at them.

fluxist8070:
Thank you so much for your kind words. Frankly, I didn't think Polypaint was going to be this fun...but this project makes me addicted to ZPaint now...

Ismail W:
Glad to share and get comments from you all. thank you for your comment, sir.

bryzol:
I was thinking it might be cool to do the transpose with poly painting on...almost like moving action figure...that's why I also chose this route rather than complete the pose then paint. And as for being active..I'm just thrilled to read other entries...and man..I've learned a lot just by reading and gathering bits and pieces of valuable information. I've learned at least 5 new techniques from reading them.

maxinkuk:
Thank you man. Yeah, the first texture test I was too "micro painting" and didn't focus on the overall color and the color came out....very muddy. Then DAnconia yanked me out of that and allow me to do it the way I would with my 2D painting.


:idea: Daily Update:
My mind always jump ahead of what I can do and I've been thinking a lot about the pose. So today I spent time and go back to drawing board and see what pose might fit him most. I'll still complete the poly painting process first then move on to the pose (Hopefully I'll try to do multiple poses) then the environment (If time allow that is.)

I've made a few poses and would love to get some comments from you guys. Again these are extremely loose sketches.....your C/C are most welcome.

posedesign.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121791','posedesign.jpg',1, 0))

[wethand]

hey solidsnake!
nice pose sketches there!!

my favorite is pose E where mantis man is jumping. i think this gives the most action.
but pose C with some heads could be very nice as well! :)

[SolidSnakexxx]

wethand:
Thanks man. The poly painting process is by far one of my favorite features of ZBrush 3.1....now. I'm so please with its ease of use. :)

[jp_smith]

I'm a big fan of E, it's a great action pose and looks like he's about to strike. The more standard "human hero" poses don't do the design justice IMO. You'll have to find a way to integrate it to the base though for the 3d print. :tu: :tu:

Jason

[SolidSnakexxx]

wethand:
That's fast respond. :)

Let me explain a bit about each pose and my current state of thought. So you guys can pitch in with the right idea about each pose.


Pose A. This is just like a normal concept sketch and doesn't show much ...more like his victory pose.

Pose B. This one I tried to show when he's really under attacked...and about to lose..but then with his Mantis will, rise up again...

Pose C. Almost like the Victory Shot A but with his opponent decapitated (Again I think this calls for too violent....so I dismiss this one for now as it may not be suitable)

Pose D.Mid action strike...nothing special yet

Pose E. Mid Air Jump Attack....is something I want to do but might not be best as I think if one of his foot has to be on the ground it might not look cool.....and the statue's got to be on a pedestal somehow....

Pose F. Mid Action Strike with him holding back the lower body/ screaming during attack. I kind of like this one and will develop further. I'll probably have his mouth wide open with his mandibles looking menacing....

Again thank you for helping me out. :o

[jp_smith]

For pose E you could drop the left leg to secure it to the base? Or you could have him completely suspended and just have a pole that connects it to the base. I own some sculpts that use that technique and it's not too distracting.

[SolidSnakexxx]

jp_smith:
Good idea there...What I might do would be doing 2-3 poses and see how they work out for now...I'm thinking E and F.... I'll work on pose F some more too. This WIP thing's really great and I wouldn't have such great suggestions elsewhere. Again, thank so much :)

[spimmy]

Really Awesome work, the head looks sweet!! :)

Your Pose sketches are great, my favourite is E since for me it gives Mantis Man a more natural stance. But they all look cool :tu: .

Look forward to seeing more.

[Pluie.]

Hey i am looking your work everyday and really like what you are doing with one of my favourite insect :)

Your pose sketches are very impressive and the pose E is the most dynamique, but my favourite is the pose B. The B is darker than the others and Mantis man look really badass.

[animastur]

I like it. Good proportions and details... :lol:

[froyd]

One of my favourite AHC-threads so far. Unique and strange but yet believable character, well-conceived and documented in an exemplary manner. I like the structure of the head and the body, the polypainting looks very promising. Excellent use of different materials.

Keep up and stay motivated, I'd love to see him finished! :)

greets
froyd

[Fess]

I really like the "E" pose as well. I think it's the most dynamic/dramatic one. "F" is pretty cool too. Really like your updates, keep em coming!

[canndis]

Cool sketches on the pose , I like the E pose than the others

[Teyon]

Pose E would be the most visually interesting, though you may be hard pressed to make a base for it.

[Moni-Poroni]

Damned..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
you´ve got amazing drawing skills too :eek: :tu: :tu: :tu:
I love the "E" pose :)
I think the "E" stands for = "E"xcellent
I think this is a really great action pose ..:tu: :tu: :tu:
I´m curious which one you´ll choose :)

[KrakenCMT]

Very nice polypainting! I would go with E as well and connect him somehow. It's the most dynamic pose of the sketches.

[- FoOD -]

Hey SolidSnakexxx

I like E but i know what you mean bout having to drop the foot ..that could lose the pose ? - a pole could work ?

F looks cool as well.....spread out the arms like his screaming at the sky after a kill ??

Sure you will nail it with your next sketches :D

[Harmonic]

I am liking pose e as well. It might be possible to pose his wings so they would support him.

[dustbin1_uk]

Simply B it looks more bug like. :D

[SolidSnakexxx]

spimmy:
Thank you, man. Soyou liek the E Pose ....I'll try to strike that pose..but it will one challenging one.

Pluie.:
Thank you man, Glad you like it.. B Pose that is for your fav...now I'm counting the vote... :) thanks for your comment.

animastur:
Thank you sir, This contest is so much fun.

froyd:
Wow, glad to hear that this guy is one of your fav. I'll try my best at this and be focused for the rest of the contest. Agian, thank you for your support.

Fess:
Another E pose voting. I might as well do a couple if time allows...at least E and F

canndis:
Another E Pose vote...Hmmm I think I'm seriously thinking about this option now..

Teyon:
Yes, the base thing's going to be something I've to think hard about... and another vote for E pose. :) thank you

Moni-Poroni:
Thank you so much for your nice comment. All right another vote for E. It seems if "E" were a presidential candidate..he's winning by a land slide. :)

KrakenCMT:
Thank you...I guess it will be hard but definitely worth trying. BTW, just saw your character..and the pose is super BAD ASS!!!

- FoOD -:
Good thinking....maybe one foot on the ground...I'll try to find what's best for him. Thank you for your kind comment.

Harmonic:
The wings I was thinking about semi spread....but that's still yet t obe decided...

dustbin1_uk:
I was really liking B when I was sketching it...like hero in his hardship fighting the baddies... Thanks for your vote :)

:idea: Daily (Night) Update:
After the long pose vote.. E seems to be the winner pose. I'll try to incorporate the mid flight pose,...and if I do have time will refine the "F" sketch and may also do this pose as well. All right about time to get back to poly painting...didn't get much done today because I had to take my girlfriend to hospital after work....by the time I got back to my station it's already getting late...

But nothing beats a good session of ZBrushing...so here I am.......the body is 30% colored. As you may know the model's not completely sculpted out...but I decided to do so after the model's posed (As I realize there will be quite a bit of re sculpting in certain areas...So I'll be nitpicking detailing at the last stage)

The guy remains green....I have yet to tough the arm area...for now just the mid section...Just a thought I might incorporate some actual texture...to him as well..but up til now..his colorization is just pure standard brush with varying RGBIntensity. Also I might break the green tone with brownish color around his mid section as well...Got to see how it goes..

progress_065.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('121849','progress_065.jpg', 1,0))

[MINTY]

Superb work! Where do you guys get the time to do this incredible work. it's not fair I tell you lol! :lol:

This is one of my faves. Top stuff mate.

[dustbin1_uk]

:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :tu:

Nothing I can add......

[Gohanf22]

Color of the RAINBOW! lol. i had to say it. im liking the colors dude. very authentic and with the colors added to it looks amazing. ;) . your doing one heck of a job, solid.

ps. - can i steal your skills for my project? lol. :lol:

[adroit.jr]

simply I can say;)

[wethand]

oh wow! ...

no words for this.

[GregStrangis]

Absolutely EXCELLENT!! You had my vote quite some time ago already man! Keep up the great work :tu: :tu: :tu:

[Lucky_1]

Very nice work on the texturing Yong !
Keep it up.

[Captain Sensible]

Great paint job!

[PaulZB]

the eyes are really cool..
great work, yong


Paul

[jeffmeckley]

Sweet highlight and shadow work. Looks like a hand painted model.

[SOLcreator]

Looks great :)

[Digital_Vulture]

after the contest is there going to be any proper high class outside rendering done with your model?

you could really put together some outstanding things using things that are still beyond zbrush rendering capabilities

[MindFX]

WOW! The texture looks great... Just can't wait to see the final post. BTW, I think pose "E" looks great. Keep it up, Yong.:tu:

[KiVanDi]

Excelent work, he looks greate.

[Moni-Poroni]

I surrender...I´m speechless!
Amazing colours!!!!
I love those darker spaces between the armor plates...
and..and...and..
(would be boring if I´d list every part right now ;) )
Really don´t know what to say....
Well... and this isn´t even the final :)

[sirhcnait]

Great work. The form was great in the early posts and then the textures... it really brought it to life.

[chindian]

Wow man - those textures are looking really great so far... keep it up! My vote is for Pose B... altho E would be cool too if you could figure out a way to make it practical for the 3D print... :cool:

[SolidSnakexxx]

MINTY:
Thank you so much, MINTY. I do find time after work but again...very little time...as I do have to do many errands. Or sometimes, during lunch break...(Mostly sketching and stuff...not the real ZFun)

dustbin1_uk:
Thank you for such kind praises, man. Much appreciated.

Gohanf22:
Thanks, bud. (^_^) Normally I don't do much of a full f ledge modeling/texturing project by myself but this contest really raise my spirit once again..Thanks to pixologic.

adroit.jr:
Thank you, sir. And your dragon's coming along well too. Look forward on that monstrous villain.

wethand:
Thank you :)

GregStrangis:
Glad to hear I still have your vote, GregStrangis. Your comments always cheer up my heart...and making me want to continue working. Thanks mate.

Lucky_1:
Thank you...it will soon get grittier.....let's see how it goes with ZCurrents..

Captain Sensible:
Thank you man.

PaulZB:
The eyes still need some color/material tweaking but holding shape I kind of want for now. Thank you so much.

jeffmeckley:
Thanks...I'll grab a flat render of texture tonight once get home from work..Still at the beginning texture/model phase...as once posed I'll rework/refine the sculpt and coloring.

SOLcreator:
Thank you, glad you like him.

Digital_Vulture:
I sure hope so..But for now I'm so xcited about the whoel contest thing as the WIP means I'm able to amend and improve my model based on people's comments... And thank you for supporting my character.


MindFX:
I'll definitely work on "E" pose..Thanks man.

KiVanDi:
Thank you..

Moni-Poroni:
When I come to your comment...I always feel like I owe you a warm thank you as your note always left me smiling. Thank you, Moni-Poroni.

sirhcnait:
Thank you, sirhcnait. Hopefully by the end of texture phase..he'll look better...and I'm still alive :) hhahahha..the late nights are killing me.

chindian:
So you are one of those who wants to see a semi defeated hero.....on his knee....raging to get revenge..Just kidding. Thanks man for your kind comment. :)

:idea: Daily Update:
Not the update to the Poly Painting but a quick another...rough...real rough sketch to the Pose "F"...your C&C are most welcome

progress_066.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122014','progress_066.jpg', 1,0))

[Harmonic]

Hey SolidSnakexxx, I am not very exited about that pose. It seems like it would hide so much of the cool detail you put into his torso. I think a lot of different poses could be really cool with this guy, but it would be a bummer to not see all your hard work in the render.

[SolidSnakexxx]

Harmonic, you are absolutely right..... I've another pose in mind now.. kind of the updated pose (E) Will try to find some time to refine in paper first... Thanks man..Always useful comments from you.. :)

[chindian]

I dunno man - i didnt think B was necessarily a defeated pose... per say...
When i first saw it - i thought of a kinda lurking pose... like maybe if it was dramatically lit - of him coming out of the shadows - it's like he's stalking his prey... u know?

But still - either way - this model is comin out awesome! I hope i still have a chance.... haha ;)

[snoopalu]

i like the silloute* of A E and F. I like A's line of action too. I like your model alot =). :D ;) :lol: :rolleyes: :lol: :tu: :) :p :p :) :) :) :p :p :p :ex: :eek: :eek: :eek: :cry::D :D :D ;)

[SolidSnakexxx]

chindian:
Good thinking..I didn't think of that aspect before...Thank you for your constructive comment :)

snoopalu:
Thank you man. Glad you like my little bug man.

:idea: Small Daily Update:
There was a request for me to show the poly paint at no material applied stage. So here it is. I'm certain this will change quite lot when it's completed...As you can see for now his colorization's very rough ...mainly to block out main colors.

Comparison View Flat/Shaded:

progress_067.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122048','progress_067.jpg', 1,0))

[- FoOD -]

Solid looking good ...paints working a treat :D

[spimmy]

Wow, i'm speechless, that is great texturing, the tones and colours are lovely!! :D . Really great model! How do you get those really crisp lines in the model?

Looking forward to your next update :) :tu: .

[ZETS]

You know, when I was a kid, every summer I would go to the sea side and spend almost all my vacations observing Mantis Religiosa bugs. Amazing creature. Can you please tell me how much time did you spent on polypainting? Also, about retopology. I think I saw some text about 3DCoat at your blog. Is that the tool you have used to fix the mesh? Thanks.

[rasmusW]

hey man!

beautiful texture work. very nice color scheme.

-r

[ravioli_rancher]

SolidSnakexxx,

He belongs in a wax museum.

And, with any luck, this project will find it's way to DVD or book form eventually. Without a doubt, one of the most epic and entertaining entries I've seen.

You're pro. :tu:

[Pharion3d]

Awsome work SolidSnakexxx, looks like I have to get my ass in gear.
I cant even think off a suggestion on how you could improve it.

[sazar26]

SSXXX your are fuggin awesome man, I'm a huge insect fan and you have captured my heart with this fantastic character. :tu: :tu: :tu:

may I ask how long you have been a character artist for?

[jp_smith]

Yong, what do you think about going a little more spider-man with the pose? I just quickly slopped this up in photoshop but I think it communicates the idea and you wouldn't have to worry about suspending him in the air or anything and it still looks agile and heroic. Just thought I'd throw this idea out there...

mantis_pose_sketch.jpg

[abe_Tamazir]

it's looking fantastic SolidSnakexxx!

[SolidSnakexxx]

- FoOD -:
Thank you man :) Like I've stated before...painting texture has never been this fun.. It gives me a sense of freedom to paint.....

spimmy:
The crisp line's no trick simply I change the DrawSize to real low and then :idea: if you want to repeat the same exact stroke...you can just go to "Stroke > Replay Last" so the line stay right atop the previous stroke... That's something I like about ZBrush....able to repeat my stroke...

ZETS:
Yes, these cretures are way awesome...The one I saw in my backyard was a small one but still has the same gracefulness to it. For the poly painting it's been like 3 hours now (2 days...so far) And the retopology took me a good 3 days (Total of like 5 hours or something) I was experimenting with 3DCoat for Retopo work but for this..everything's done inside ZBrush. So far it's the only app that's been used for the model. I'll try to remain this way and see how much I can push my own ZB knowledge limit.

abyss103:
Thank you...Finally I like the green...but can't help adding some brown to his body :)

ravioli_rancher:
Your comment really makes me high...man. Thank you so much and I'm honor you think that way.

Pharion3d:
Thank you sir. I'm certain your Gecko man will be a visual treat :)

sazar26:
Thank you again, sazar26. I haven't been doing Character design for quite sometime as I was promoted as an MD to overview a visual effects company for Film in Bangkok (This is our current project: http://www.kingnaresuanmovie.com/). But in my spare time, I'd do the character design for Thai mythology website http://www.himmapan.com (The 3D works aren't ready for public viewing just yet).

jp_smith:
Oh I do like the pose you suggested..As it would show the front plates..and the Raptorial arm quite well. I think I have an idea..on how I'd approach the test pose now (I'll see whether it'll work in action or not)....Will definitely try this pose of yours...and Thank you so much for taking your precious time and helping me out here. Much appreciated, buddy :)

abe_Tamazir:
Thank you for your kind comment :)

[inverse catheter]

fantastic job man. he's looking awesome

[MrHappy]

Looking fantastic SSnake :D Makes me think he could be a baddie in the Guyver. Keep up the good work!

[jaruru]

i look forward to see your process. Coz it's a good way to practise my self. You're a big guy and i want to be like u some day my teacher. :tu: :tu: :tu:

[digichu]

Sweet texture man, great job.
I bet you've heard about Hellpainter, if you don't, go www.hellpainter.com.
He's got some damn good pating skill; really good for reference.

Good Luck!!

[jtruthnick]

wow solidsnakexxx, this is coming along awesome! been following it, but haven't checked it in awhile (you update too often! ;) ) Fantastic stuff. love the texturing. coloring does look a little "master chiefish" though. but that's not a bad thing. can't wait to see more!

[SolidSnakexxx]

inverse catheter:
Thank you...He'll need your help on pose decision once again..soon :)

MrHappy:
The guyvers are very cool. Wish they have some more movies...of that series. And Thank you for your kind comment.

digichu:
Thanks buddy. Just went over to Hellpainter site..and they've got mad skills...amazing stuff...But looks so expensive.. Wonder they have something like that in Thailand. And BTW, your shadowraven is looking super cool..just its silhouette is very strong.

jaruru:
Nice to see you here :) and thank you for kind comment.

jtruthnick:
Thank you so much. I was trying to update for each of my save...spot..I now have like 150 + versions from the beginning to current state..(Nearly 8 GB..But at least I can revert back to any point I like...I'm a nutcase on this issue...hehehehe)

:idea: Daily (Night) Update:
Today's my painting break day. So tomorrow I can get a fresh eye on the texture and able to improve. ....So I gear to focus on the pose..This time I had the thought since this afternoon and really wanted to get back home and test whether it might work or not.

The method I'm using is..very experimental. By using ZSphere for test posing....Basically position the ZSpheres to roughly visualize on pose especially the weight and balance of the model. As I already have a semi-all right Zsphere base..all I need to add were the head, antennae and the wings...

This is the model once I've added said elements:

progress_068.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122074','progress_068.jpg', 1,0))

The key is to use only Rotate on the ZSphere..so the overall proportion stays correct.

Alright enough talk...I decided to do the following poses and tried to capture the vid (Click to view)
Pose A: Victory Pose
zsphere_A.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122075','zsphere_A.jpg',1,0 ))
kfu01Wrlfvo

Pose B: Down Pose
zsphere_B.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122076','zsphere_B.jpg',1,0 ))
KoUt9EmRZ7I

Pose E: Mid Air Attacking
zsphere_E.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122077','zsphere_E.jpg',1,0 ))
IyroL5lqtS8

Pose F: Taunting
zsphere_F.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122078','zsphere_F.jpg',1,0 ))
bneU816lRWg

Pose F(1): Revised Taunting
zsphere_Fa.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122079','zsphere_Fa.jpg',1, 0))
r0Djfgq7hZY

Pose JPS: Pose Recommended by JP Smith (Thanks buddy)
zsphere_JpSmith.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122080','zsphere_JpSmith.jp g',1,0))
eM_O9mUo5Ww

Your C&C are most welcome...and....Now I'll need your voting power again.....thank you so much..

[luis2008]

nice. my first choice would be the mid air attack

second it would be the revised taunting. cant wait to see what you choose :D

[gang]

Pose E: Mid Air Attacking
is looking great , i will go for that

[DAnconia]

Mid air attack to the max! Just twist his torso back a little bit more and you are golden. All the detail you have put in the model is great but what really sets the model apart is the mantis arm. I would make the arm the focus of the scene. Dont forget to spreading the mouth bits out if he is gonna yell. Also, might want to add some type of flowing cloth. Cause everything on him is stiff besides the antennae on his head so it will be harder to show movement or inertia. Like Spawn. His cape adds so much more drama to his movements. You dont have that luxury with this character. His wings will be stiff and his antennae are a bit too thin to carry that type of movement. I would make them super long and a bit thicker.


Great progress.

[Gohanf22]

im definitely digging the mid air and jp's pose. only reason why im saying jp's pose is i'm a fan of spider-man. but, jp's idea is very good though. even if it wasn't base around spidey i would still like his idea. kudos to you man for doing a good job. kudos, kudos, kudos. :D :tu:

[Moni-Poroni]

Hey :) what a huuuge update :)
let me see..

A)-I´m definetely not going to vote for the victory pose... because there isn´t so much action in there :cool:

Ummmm...

B)-I like this pose BUT I think he´d look more powerful if he wouldn´t squat down...so I´m not going to vote for this one

E)-Yepp the mid air attack :) ...of course this pose is really cool :tu: but I´ll take a look at the others..

F)-Taunting pose- to make a long story short...I don´t vote for this one - I need moooooooooooooore action :D

F)-Revised Taunting
I think this pose could look really really amazing.... so much emotion in there..
and looks much more aggressive than the others....
Looks really like he´s going to fight against a villain in the following second...
and like he´s really angry :tu: :tu: :tu:

(Edit: A few minutes ago my system chrashed :mad: I lost one subtool :mad:
-My fault. I laid my leg on the tower..(right word ^^?)
I don´t know why I did that ^^ and of course I accidentally hit the power button :D (it´s on the top of my tower )
I really looked like MM with the F(Revised Taunting) Pose...:lol: )

JPS-Pose.. This one could be great too...he looks mighty and ready for the fight..

Keep in mind that this challenge is around capturing your model AT A KEY POINT...
That´s the reason why I definetly don´t vote for the victory pose....because this one´s looking like MM is posing for the camera...

Ok..so I have two favourites :
E) mid air attack ( this one´s really portraying the contest theme)
and
F) revised taunting because it´s full of emotion

JPS-Pose is cool too...but might look a little bit too simulated...
Don´t get me wrong:)
This pose rocks..but I think it´s looking a little too much like a poster pose
although it´s an amazing pose

I tried to say something constructive this time...:)
sorry I really can´t say it better even though I want to....:)
I´ll continue upgrading my english skills:o

Now it´s your choice ;) I´m sure in the end it´ll look damned good!!!!!!!!
Best wishes

[D Adami]

Pose E: Mid Air Attacking is looking great!
I liked Pose F(1): Revised Taunting too.

cheers

[sazar26]

pose E and pose F for me bro :tu: :tu:

[GregStrangis]

I love pose F and JP's pose. My only question is are you just using this to test the pose and then use transpose?? I think we have no choice but to use transpose as part of the rules :cry: Anyways man looking awesome as usual keep it up :tu: :tu: :tu:

[Crotalis]

Put me down for either JP Smith's pose, or the Mid-Air pose. JP's has a really nice silhouette (SP?), and the mid-air pose is very dynamic. I have a feeling you're easily one of the front runners right now!

[jp_smith]

Yong, if you're gonna do my pose I'd pull the butt down lower and shift his weight more to the left leg, and maybe bend the right leg at the knee slightly. If you want to send me that zsphere file I can show ya real quick.

[SFGfx]

SolidSnake,

I've been lurking on this forum since this contest started, and I have to say that this is one kick-a** entry. I make it a point to check this thread every day.

For me, Pose E is the one, but right now, imho, the pose looks like he just got kicked in the back and is about to fall down. If I were doing it, I would probably take the upper torso and twist it just a little more to his left. (Would make it look like he's really winding up to smack someone with the mantis arm, and when it hits it's gonna huuurt). Also, I would take his right leg and rotate it up so that the thigh is just about parallel to the ground. Would, I think, give a little better action line, and give the impression that he's jumping forward.

That's all I got. Keep up the awesome work. This is going to be mind-boggling when its done. :eek:

[hdrop]

I stil like pose E the most. Can’t wait to see the posed model.
Great work.

[jp_smith]

This is what I was thinking of, more dynamic and action-y while still being able to support it's own weight and stand on it's own as a 3d print. :)

mantis_pose.jpg

[Moni-Poroni]

jp_smith this is looking really cool.. yeah it doesn´t look like a poster posing anymore:)
I really love the way the mantis arm is posed now!
And it looks like he is going to storm forward to kick some villain´s a****
(hope he won´t kill my villain lady^^)

[jp_smith]

Here's a turnaround too...

hAHLksYR0io

[Drakelot]

Most impressive poses. The final texture is TOO COOL ...xcellent and SOLID ...:tu: :tu: :tu: !!!

[The Master Elite]

This. Character. Looks. Awesome!

...I am a major arthropod guy [insects, spiders, and other invertebrates] and I love mantids...I used to have a whole bunch of 'em...

...if this helps any, Mantids often sway when moving, creating the illusion that they are a branch blowing with the wind...indeed, they sometimes will only move when the wind is blowing. Also, many mantids will arch their abdomen and spread their wings, often also hissing, to surprise their predators.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/2861260031_03a85669b9.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2185/2161364827_c88f54dc04.jpg?v=0

Not the best illustration...if I had some mantids around atm I would definately post them in their ticked-off position, but I thought you might find this useful. :)

Keep up the great work! I'm lovin' this thread!

[antisymmetry]

Great work. Excellent coloring and detailing. I like pose D on your pose ideas pic. It looks like he is on the attack.

[robbiestyle]

looking amazing. My favorite is pose E. That one feels the most dynamic. Also one thing to keep in mind is it will stiffen abit once you match that pose just cause of the additional volume of the character, so you need to push it even further..but i digress :) if you are shooting for the one that is the most comic booky and would come straight out of "how to draw comic the Marvel way" E is the pose for you! :) can't wait to see where you go regardless of which one you choose!

rob

[Seavannah]

wow he is just so awesome!!! love the detailing you have done on him. He looks as if he is going to jump right out of my computer. E is a really cool pose... just an idea... could put him hanging, ready to jump at his prey off of something like make the base a building, lamppost or something. What ever you decide I know he will be awesome.:D

[electricCAT]

I really like your paint work. What kind of alphas do you use?

[askutt]

Im a big fan of pose E, it might be difficult to mount him on a stand tho,

[jp_smith]

Yeah that's the reason I suggested a pose other than E, because it needs to work as a sculpt not just a render....I think E is really cool too, tough to 3d print though. :)

[SolidSnakexxx]

luis2008:
Pose E is one of my fav as well second only to JP's revised pose. I think now I can plan what to do next. Thanks for your vote :)

gang:
Thank for your vote buddy :) E is going to definitely be one I work with along with Jp's.

DAnconia:
The main problem I see having with E pose is just how to affix it to a stand and not be too distracting.. And I do agree with the movement flow...I'll work on that with this pose :) Thanks for your vote.

Gohanf22:
Thanks man for the vote. Will most likely do both and have another vote at the end of posing session :)

Moni-Poroni:
Thank you so much, your comment's so useful and very descriptive. And I'm sorry for losing your work..from placing your leg on the box, it's annoying losing one's work, eh? BTW, your English's fine.. and the new JP's suggestion is awesome, don't you think?...and Mantis Man promise he won't kill any lady villains..

D Adami:
Thanks man, the voting system really do work.. I like that you guys are so helpful....I'm so grateful for this...

sazar26:
Thanks, bud. E will definitely see the light of day ;)

GregStrangis:
Thanks man for your vote.. This ZSphere constructs are mainly for visualization purpose... as I thought the ZSphere construct...already jointed somehow..so it might be a good idea to use for test pose...rather than drawing which is too 2-dimensional..and with this viewers can see the pose from every angles and able to assist me in choosing one that best fit. Of course, the fun of posing will still rely on the great Transpose Master..as I have so many subtools.. :)

Crotalis:
Thanks for your vote. I also do dig Jp's suggestion...and does translate better for print purpose. and Thank you for your kind praise. Much appreciated.

SFGfx:
Thank you so much for popping in and statin such kind comment. And your suggestion is very valid... I think it need to be twisted just a bit to make him look more menacing rather than being kicked :)

hdrop:
Thank you so much for your vote :)

jp_smith:
Hey Buddy, Saw your suggested pose and man it's awesome. I'll definitely do this pose for certain :) Thank you for your kindness and the turn around view too!

Drakelot:
Thank you so much, sir :) Your stuff's coming along very well too...I can't imagine making so many accessories like that..Lots of determination.

The Master Elite:
Thank you so much, The Master Elite, for such constructive comment and I think if I can incorporate your suggestion in, it would look more fluid and natural. Thank you so much.

antisymmetry:
A friend of mine also likes the D pose while it looks more static but it does show the anticipation of his upcoming moves. Thanks for your comment and vote man :)

robbiestyle:
Yes, right now it's pretty clear to go for E and Jp's Suggestion. My heart's telling to do both... :) Thank you so much for your vote.

Seavannah:
Thank you very much for your kind words. If I were to do E and have the print with a stick to hold him in mid air, do you think it will look odd?

electricCAT:
Thanks, mate.. As of now..there's not alpha work at all, just the standard brush with varying draw size / RGB Intensity. Ain't Poly paint a magic I'm in love once again..:)

askutt:
Yes, The pose will need to find its solution for the stand.... Thanks for your vote :)


:idea: Daily Update and Plan:
I would like to thank everybody who's been a big help in voting for the pose Mantis Man should be in. Especially jp_smith who's gone far out to suggest one of the coolest poses I couldn't imagine.

Here's the voting result So far:

Vote for Pose

A: 0
B: 0
C: 0
D: 1
E: 11
F: 1
F.1: 1
JP: 8 (My GF/co-workers dig this)

The plan:
The decision has been made upon the vote that I'll do 2 poses; one being the mid air attack and the other is JP's suggested pose. Now I can rest assure and go back to finish my polypaint first..then get back to this... Again, thank you so much guys... I'm in debt to you all. Meanwhile, if those who still want to comment on pose and vote, please do so as I would like to know what other members might think. Til next time... :)

[jp_smith]

Yong, it was my pleasure to help a friend. :tu: :tu: If your character wasn't so bad ass I wouldn't have had the pose inspiration. :D Keep rockin' bud!

J

[aho_cn]

be beautiful work , plentiful power is a lot of , an agent is of Thailand ,
:tu: :tu: :tu: :tu:

[cresshead]

what an amazing sculpture!
wow...brilliant work! :tu:

[sendhilv]

I love the way your's mantis man growing up, I love your activeness buddy........ :tu:

[Lucky_1]

Love to see his final pose Yong !
Keep it up

[SolidSnakexxx]

jp_smith:
Glad you like my character, buddy. I'm eternally grateful for your help on the pose. :o

aho_cn:
Thank you krub. :) I Will try my best na krub.

cresshead:
Thank you so much.. I hope it turns out well too :)

sendhilv:
Thank you....I'm really happy to see such a warm community here. Rhis place really helps me learn ZBrush real well. The best comminity yet!

Lucky_1:
Thank you man. Your chracter's keeping me motivated as well!

:idea: Daily (Night) Minute Update:
Just got back from a hospital not long ago...(Taking my girlfreidn there. :() Anyhow I got only half an hour of polypaint fun tonight before having to hit the bed as tomorrow I have a real early company project meeting. So not much update..just over all color now the arm area (Not the hand yet) tomorrow I'll start on the back and get to the raptorail blade. Again this polypaint session along with current state of sculpting still at rough state... Most likely will get refined when the model's posed so I can clean up and add gritty details.

Here's what the time allowed tonight:

progress_069.jpg (javascript:zb_insimg('122254','progress_069.jpg', 1,0))

[Etcher]

Fantastic work! I'm looking forward to every update... :tu: .

[VitorFerreira]

I love this dude. Really nice work.

I've tryed a couple times to play with materials and painting in Zbrush but I failed on all the atempts. Can you give me just a couple main points to follow to acheive such a nice material as you got?


Oh and didnt read on the first time about your girl. Sorry about that mate, hope all goes to the best :tu:

[GregStrangis]

Looks great as usual Yong, even in just a flat material it still rocks :D

[LeXuSMalus]

Good Work!!!
about poses:
Pose E: Mid Air Attacking is looking good, but his legs are not there resemble.

may be a suitable alternative, one of these poses?
maintist.jpg (http://javascript%3Cb%3E%3C/b%3E:zb_insimg%28%27122261%27,%27maintist.jpg%27,1 ,0%29)

[Moni-Poroni]

Hi...I´m sorry that your girlfriend is in the hostpital..:( All the best!

Good update as always..
I´m looking forward to your next update ...as always..:) you see..nothing has changed :D
(and I still don´t know what´s right > looking forward to or for ^^...)

I can´t wait to see those gritty details you´re talking about :eek: :eek: :eek: ;)

Regarding LeXuSMalus sketch over...
That´s really kind..:) but ...(don´t get me wrong) but I think both poses are looking too Mantis-LADY like

[Gohanf22]

hey bud. i hope your girl is going to be alright. its not good to see the ones you love in the hospital. i don't like it either. tell her i wish her the best. and dude yours is like my most favorite in this contest. i hope your in the top 10 or top 5 for that matter cause yours is going to be hard to beat. keep it up and ill keep in touch. :cool: :tu:

[Moni-Poroni]

....well for sure he´ll be in the top 10:)
SolidSnakexxx have you ever thought about what´ll happen if you win the first prize AND the prize for the honorable mention :D :D :D

[tuh3008]

Nice Shade.

[Drakelot]

Looking awesome Solid ... !!!:tu: :tu: