Assignment 04: Model a Fish

Use polygon or box modeling techniques to create a properly scaled fish. Its important to model accurate proportions more than detail. Use the mirror geometry tool to duplicate geometry around the central axis of the fish. Pay special attention to creating edge loops around the mouth and eyes. You will need several sets of edge loops in order to properly open and close the eyes and mouth. Occasionaly check the model as smoothed ('3' key).

The fish should be modeled with fins extended, mouth and eyes open so that rigging will be easier as a later exercise. You may model the fish in the images, but can select your own as well. Upload the the referenced images in the Dropbox assignment folder.

Do not be concerned with materials or texture.

Put the .ma file into your assignment_04 folder in Dropbox along with a screen shot("print screen" on you keyboard) of the final modeled fish. Make sure when you do the print screen that you have the fish selected in "object" mode and be sure that we can see the entire fish.

The grades will be determined according to the following:

Proportions and Modeling Detail	20%
Topology Construction	20%
Subdivision surface appearance	20%
Completeness/Meeting Program Requirements	20%
Timliness of Handin	20%

Maya Cheat Sheet

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Assignment 03: Bridge and Rock

DUE  SEPT 28, 2012

For this exercise, we will explore a few additional tools for creating models. The bridge contains several elements; the beams, decking, railings, etc. The revolve tool can be used effectively to model the beams, the decking and the curved railings. Duplicate a single railing post and scale it as necessary to model the remaining posts. Clone the posts to create the second set on the backside of the bridge.

Model large flat stones that would support the bridge at the ends. Use a flat plane below to model the bed of the stream. It doesn't have to look exactly like the first image, but the flat stones should extend on either side of the bridge. These flat stones should have a natural appearance with curved linear edges.

Additionally, model a large rock similar to the one in the third image. Starting with a sphere, use the sculpt tool and soft-select tools.  Place this rock near the base of the bridge on the left. Be sure to smooth each of your models with the number "3" key.

Do not indicate any colors or textures for the model.

Turn-in the .ma file to the vist284 Dropbox folder.

The grades will be determined according to the following:

Model Proportions and scale	30%
Modeling Detail and appearance	30%
Completeness/Meeting Program Requirements	20%
Timeliness of Hand in	0%

Assignment 02: Japanese Lantern and Arch

Using the modeling techniques we have discussed, model the objects depicted in the images. Modeling usually starts with the research necessary to understand the object being modeled. How are the objects put together? How were these objects constructed? Spend a little time to collect information about these objects, details and other information you think pertinent. Add edge-loops and resolution only where necessary to smooth the model. 

A good way to start modeling is to use an existing image in the background so you can "model" over it (View/ImagePlane/ImportImage). This is a common and useful technique if you need to accurately replicate an object.

The shrine entrance is composed of 10 separate primitives. All dimensions can be determined from the diameter of the columns which are slightly tapered at the top. Include the concrete bases as well. Be sure to group all of this geometry inside your outliner and rename the group.

Do not indicate any colors or textures for the model. 

Turn-in the .ma file to the dropbox "vist_284_Maya" folder and inside your folder/assignment_02.

The grades will be determined according to the following:

Model Proportions and scale	40%
Modeling Detail and appearance	20%
Completeness/Meeting Program Requirements	20%
Timliness of Hand-in	20%