CASE STUDY: Integrating 3D

We are living in a society where there is less chance that many will experience wildlife first hand, so it would be great if there is more accurate method bringing wildlife to your home. Illustrations have limited presence, but presenting and example of a fish through a photo or an illustration is significantly different then seeing one first hand. A fish has shape and form, and the surface of its skin cannot be seen through a photo or illustration. There is sheen, a reflectivity that brings it to life.

With the technology that is available today, we can create a much more accurate sense of the whole of the animal. We can add form and structure to the details of the animal, and with advanced lighting, we can make the surface react as it would in the real world. The fish comes to life, and it provides a far greater representation than if it was flat.

The process of building the model takes several steps. We had to gather sufficient sample photos of the fish so that we can assemble a side and top illustration that is accurate to the fish physical proportion. We also had to ensure details such as fin size, texture, structure and positioning on the body were correct, because it is these details that help to differentiate one species from another. The side and top profile was brought into Lightwave 3D, and modeled. In the process, we had to take into account the polygon flow, to ensure, if necessary, the model could be animated at a later date.

Once assembled, the 3D model was brought into Bodypaint 3D. We chose this application mostly because we knew that we would have to deal with refined colour and scale patterns, which is also a key detail in determining species variation. Bodypaint allowed us to have much greater control in applying colour detail, bump, reflection and texture.

By taking our fish and building an interactive interface around it, we add the ability to inspect the animal from all sides, thus providing an enhanced user experience. Combined with points that highlight details, and we have a great learning experience. Click here to experience a fish in 3D.