Hi everyone. It hasn't been easy, but now that we've finished Bridgett (really flexing my 3D design muscles along the way) I'd like to talk about animation tests. There are certain technologies I'd like to showcase, each in a separate submission. These will start with run-of-the-mill tests like a walk cycle and lip sync animation, and end with tests describing the nuances of the more subtle technologies, like bulge, flex and dynamics.

First of all I'd like to explore a pallete of emotions. This will probably go hand in hand with a few lip sync tests, to show the character talking. I've scavenged some clips off the 'net which will do fine for a test, but we don't actually have a voice actor for her yet.

Walk cycles can be explored in a variety of ways. There are so many different ways for a person to walk, I'd like to do a few of them to show how suitable (or unsuitable) they may be for Bridgett. There's a lot you can tell of someone's personality by the way they walk.

Something I'd like to show off is the bulge subset of the physique modifier. It allows me to create "joint angles" and modify the shape of a part of the model according to how acute an angle on the body is. This means that Bridgett's muscles will bulge as she flexes them! It's a subtle effect, but it'll look great. Especially with someone who works out at the gym often.

The flex modifier is a subtle one. It allows what is called "secondary movement" - an advanced animation technique that allows certain parts of a character to lag behind. Bridgett's well toned, and doesn't have a lot of fat on her, but her boobs and butt will jiggle realistically, thanks to the flex modifier.

Dynamics are featured in many different parts of 3D animation. They basically allow such things as gravity, wind and other forces to manipulate certain objects. Bridgett will be subjected to a blizzard of a wind machine. Her hair and fur will be blown about realistically, due to the dynamics system.

This will all culminate in a short animation of Bridgett working out at the gym. Tying all of the concepts together in a somewhat more canon setting. I'm looking forward to finally getting some animation done, so watch this space!

-itoril.



I think itoril covered the technical aspects and upcoming agendas with the project quite well, so I’ll just throw a few words in here from myself.

Next on the list for us is likely clothing. We’ve got the full body model done, but we’re not going to release it until we’ve got clothes on her, because we’re bastards like that. Will you guys get to see her naked? Certainly, but in due time. Good things come to those who wait...patiently. Speaking of clothing, we have ideas as to what her wardrobe will consist of, but do any of you guys have anything you might like to see her in? Any possible suggestions? Bear in mind, Bridgett is the shy, introverted type. (but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t have a kinky side!)

Next on our model list will be Brooke, Bridgett’s best friend, and polar opposite, personality-wise. Stay tuned for updates on her...

Although it’s too early to be recording them, we’re always looking for voice talents for our models, so if you think you’ve got the talent, feel free to drop a PM and we can discuss future auditioning. Also, too early right now, but I’d just thought I’d like to mention we’ll be holding an art contest sometime in the near future with some sweet prizes (which you’ll just have to wait to see just what they are...)

Stay tuned for future updates!

-S.G.