Today we were taught a way to make modelling easier- Retopology. Retopology makes low polygon models that are easier to animate and model than the original meshes they were based on. A way to aid topologizing a model is to use the polygon fill tool, which involves taking an edge of a place and automatically creating a new polygon to fill out the model. By tiling up these polygons, you can, though rather a time-consuming process for it, create a new low polygon model that will use less of your computer’s processing power!

We had to use the polygon fill tool to retopologies an elephant’s head as part of the classwork. I found the process quite fiddly and long winded, and merging the edges correctly was quite a chore, as well.

We also learned about UV mapping the elephant’s head, starting with a projected plane using the projector modifier, and rotating and applying the rotation to the plane as needed, the UV viewer will show the retopologised head.

We then add our seams using Mark Seam such as around the ears, the base of the trunk, etc and then unwrap.

In addition, I learned about the various types of layers I could use to help with the look of my character.

A wetness layer can be used for accents. By creating a layer with metal and roughness as their material channels. I can select a mask on top with blur to reveal it in spots.

Blur layers can help with blending and give a painted feel.