Discover how to model and render an ultra-realistic spider
The Gnomon Workshop has released Modeling and Rendering a Realistic Jumping Spider, a masterclass in creature creation workflows recorded by industry veteran Eric Keller.
The workshop, which comprises over seven hours of video training for ZBrush, Maya, Substance Painter and Redshift, is aimed at intermediate to advanced CG artists looking to expand their skills.
In particular, the tutorial provides practical advice for integrating Yeti, Peregrine Labs’ powerful Maya hair and fur plugin, into your workflows.
Master practical CG creature design workflows based on real-world biological principles
Over the course of a series of videos, Eric Keller demonstrates his process for designing, modeling and texturing a biologically accurate jumping spider.
He begins by blocking out the model in ZBrush, creating textures and materials in Substance Painter, creating working topology and UVs in Maya, and generating fur in Yeti.
Keller then renders the final image using Redshift for Maya, demonstrating compositional and lighting techniques based on his study of macro photography.
As well as demonstrating practical CG techniques, Keller discusses important aspects of spider anatomy and behaviour that should inform creature design work.
About the artist
Eric Keller has been working as a CG artist since 1998. His recent credits include work on 10 Cloverfield Lane and Star Trek Beyond, and models for the title sequences of Aquaman and Swamp Thing.
As well as his other training videos for The Gnomon Workshop, he teaches the Introduction to Maya and Introduction to Digital Sculpting courses at the Gnomon school itself.
Pricing and availability
Modeling and Rendering a Realistic Jumping Spider is available via an online subscription to The Gnomon Workshop, providing access to over 300 detailed tutorials. Subscriptions cost $49/month or $490/year.
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