Newbie seeks head modelling tips

[Thunderwatch]

Hi, all. I've been trying to get a handle on the basics of head modeling (with the demo version), but I'm finding it tough.

Try as I might, the brow, eye sockets, cheekbones, etc. just don't look realistic or workable to me.

I did the tutorial "Head Modeling Part 1" from Quicklinks, but I think I need the sculpting aspect of it broken down for me a little more.

Are there basic settings I should be using to make things go more smoothly, or is it purely a matter of practice and trial-and-error?

I have found that the draw-size and z-intensity values are key. Are there other settings I should be aware of (besides symmetry)?

Also, is there a preferred, generic material to use for modeling, before applying texture?

Thanks! I greatly appreciate your help.

--Thunderwatch

[upham]

Hey Thunderwatch.
I've got a ZBrush newbie site, just click the link on the bottom of my signature below, "upham's ZLand 4 newbies". This should help you.
The biggest learning curve comes through practice and trial-and-error. What you put into it is what you'll get out of it.
Give me some feedback. I need to develop this site.
Upham

[Thunderwatch]

Awesome -- thanks much! I'll check it out.

--Thunderwatch

[Thunderwatch]

Upham:

Your site for newbies is great. I found the exercise on modeling lips and ears particularly useful (increasing the polygons for detailed facial areas is a must-know).

In Exercise 5, you explained how to elongate the face by using deformation/gravity. In Exercise 6, how do you accomplish the complete skull? (I'm thinking of the profile view where you show the two ellipses in the skull.) Is this also done in the deformation subpallete?

I'm going to stick with head modeling for a while before moving on to materials and color. I'd be happy to give you more feedback on this site as I progress.

Thanks again.

--Thunderwatch.

[Silent-bob]

im bye no means on the same level as upham, but i make the basic head template with EDIT MOVE with a big brush size. and symmetry when needed.. any way, for all your models you'll really have to use the same basic head and deform it to the shape and expression you'd like.. unless the basic is really different from what you want the end result to be..

dont work extra hard if you dont absolutly have to, thats all the fun in Zbrush, you DONT have to!

waiting to see your first head..

laterZ
tomer

[Stonecutter]

HeadNeyes.txt
This is a little 'quicky' head and eyes tutorial script that might help...
Set 'Show Actions' on, and set delay to 800-1000...
It also helps to turn off the 'floating' menu so you can see the whole screen...

[upham]

Your most welcome Thunderwatch. Please take some time to check out the other links in my signature such as Southern Graphics, ZPlace, Kathies - Visionized and Aurick's - The Aurickle. There has been a lot of time and effort put into building these websites (for free) and it's been much appreciated as you'll soon see.
Have you checked out the prerecorded modeling scripts that came with ZBrush? Pixolator demonstrates how he builds head models from scratch! They take a while to watch, but you'll be glad you did!
Also theres a number of PRIMER scripts in the script draw that go over ZBrush fetchers in more detail. These can all be accessed via the LOAD button in the ZScript palette.

You'll understand how I got the skull-shape from exercise 6, after watching Pixolators modeling records. You can also slow the scripts down if you need too via the ZScript>modifier>replay delay slider.
Upham

[DM]

I put a Head txt on the forum on Sunday and only got one response, it was aimed at helping newbies although its quite long. Its was heading down the first page last time I looked. If you should find it any help, can you let me know please, so that I can decide if its worth doing other body part texts.
Dave

[upham]

Hey DM
I downloaded your head modeling text from THIS thread, and it was really great! I feel really guilty for not replying with a thank-you , Can I do it here??
THANKS DM!!!

I really like the quote from your sculpture friend ...

quote:

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“It takes as long as it takes; if it’s speed you want then unless you’re one of the few that can turn out good work at speed, then you’re most likely to sacrifice quality“.

---

Very true!
Upham

[DM]

Thanks for your thanks Upham, glad you liked it. Sorry it was nearly as long as an Cecil B. de Mille epic.
Dave