Lesson Today
In today’s lesson, we explored the rigging process for an octopus, a dragon, and a character within Unreal Engine (UE). Rigging involves adding a skeletal structure and control systems to a model to enable animation in the subsequent stages. I find rigging in UE both intriguing and challenging. Although various plugins in UE streamline the rigging process, it remains difficult to retain and apply the required blueprint configurations, which are essential for effective rigging. I believe additional practice would enhance my proficiency in this area.
Project Progress
I utilized an alternative model and integrated plugins to construct the environment, as the previously downloaded file was an HDMI image, which did not meet the project requirements. This format restricted character movement around rocks and corals, which is essential for achieving a realistic effect. Consequently, I opted to modify my approach.
Environment and Camera Angle
Using the available resources, I arranged models and configured elements such as lighting, god rays, shadows, and cameras. This version represents an initial test of the environment setup.I utilized an alternative model and integrated plugins to construct the environment, as the previously downloaded file was an HDMI image, which did not meet the project requirements. This format restricted character movement around rocks and corals, which is essential for achieving a realistic effect.
Consequently, I opted to modify my approach. Using the available resources, I arranged models and configured elements such as lighting, god rays, shadows, and cameras. This version represents an initial test of the environment setup.
At present, I am satisfied with the results and plan to proceed with blocking the animation for the character, particularly the fish.
However, I encountered an issue when reopening Unreal Engine on a different computer, as the downloaded textures for the models and surfaces were missing. I plan to seek a solution for this issue through online resources and by consulting my tutor.
Animatic
Before beginning the animation of the fish, I created an animatic to provide a preview of the character’s movement and camera angles. This process aids in better planning for the animation, as I am using Maya to create the animation and Unreal Engine to build the environment.
Rigging
I attempted to rig the fish I had previously found, but encountered some issues in the process. Due to its shape and the fact that it was sculpted, I had difficulty inputting the skeleton (the bones highlighted in white) into the model.
The “fins” of the fish were not moving correctly with the controllers. I have decided to use a different model for my animation to determine whether the same issues persist.
This rig appears more suitable for use, as it allows me to add controllers to enhance the animation.
For my fish texture, I plan to use purple as the main colour for the environment and yellow for the fish, creating a strong contrast that helps the fish stand out from the background. This approach is inspired by the color palette in the following padlet.
I am going to change the main colour for the environment after I solved the texture issue in Unreal Engine.
I tried to reference the colour from the colour padlet above, but it does not really give a good result and rather seems like the sea was poisonous or cursed. I would continue experimenting with the colours by importing the fish to the environment together with doing the animation,