Zhao Ying - Student Portfolio 2023

3D Modeling - Chinese Dim Sum Store (Mini Diorama)

In my first semester, I successfully completed my initial 3D modeling project utilizing Maya and Krita. This project allowed me to delve into the foundational principles of 3D modeling, basic lighting techniques, and material shaders. I also gained valuable expertise in creating multiple views to effectively showcase the final render. This learning experience was instrumental in developing my understanding of the fundamentals of 3D modeling and rendering, as well as honing my skills in presenting my work in a visually appealing manner.

Concept & Ref

Texture & Material Study

During my second semester, I worked on a Texture & Material Study project where I focused on studying specific materials and learned how to paint my own material ball and texture using Substance Painter. The project allowed me to create a still-life model, which helped me refine my skills in various areas such as modeling techniques, UV texturing processes, lighting, and rendering techniques. By using Substance Painter, I was able to greatly enhance the visual realism and believability of the final rendered images, making them more visually convincing and lifelike. This experience helped me deepen my understanding of the technical aspects involved in creating realistic textures, while also improving my visual aesthetics. Overall, it was a highly valuable learning experience that contributed significantly to my growth as a 3D artist.

3D Hard Surface Modeling - Fiat Panda 2013

During my project in which I created a 3D model of a Fiat Panda 2013, I focused on honing my skills in 3D Hard Surface Modeling using Maya and Substance Painter. This project provided me with the opportunity to further develop my expertise in topology, modeling techniques, UV texturing processes, lighting, rendering techniques, and basic compositing techniques. Through this invaluable learning experience, I gained a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of hard surface modeling and mastered UV mapping and texturing. It was a significant journey of growth as a 3D artist, as it enhanced my ability to create visually appealing and realistic textures for my models while deepening my understanding of the visual aesthetics and techniques involved in modeling hard surfaces.

3D Env Modeling - Lake of Death

During semester 3, I utilized Maya, Substance Painter, and Arnold Renderer to create 3D environment models. This project was centered around modeling an environment based on concept art perspectives, providing me with ample opportunities to refine my skills in modeling techniques, lighting, and rendering techniques. The goal was to create accurate, visually appealing, and convincing 3D environment models that are realistic in their appearance. As part of this project, I also had the opportunity to learn baking techniques, which involved transferring details from a high-poly model to a low-poly model. This invaluable learning experience deepened my understanding of the fundamental principles of baking and further enhanced my skills in creating realistic environments, adding valuable expertise to my skillset as a 3D artist.

In this project, I tested compositing in DaVinci Resolve 18 with different mood colors. This project provided me with an opportunity to learn and improve my understanding of DaVinci Resolve and 3D compositing. It was a valuable learning experience that allowed me to develop my skills in compositing techniques and understand how to effectively integrate 3D elements into compositing workflows.

Creature Modeling - Cloud Man

In my third semester, I had the opportunity to explore creature modeling using Zbrush for the first time with a project titled "Cloud Man". This assignment not only introduced me to new software but also allowed me to create a character based on concept art. Throughout this project, I familiarized myself with the Zbrush interface, honed my skills in sculpting, and created highly detailed and realistic digital sculptures using various sculpting brushes.

I also gained a comprehensive understanding of the workflow and pipeline of using Zbrush in conjunction with other 3D software to create a complete sculpting and texturing channel. The project involved multiple stages: sculpting, retopology, UV unwrapping, baking, texturing, and rigging.

This invaluable learning experience enabled me to develop diverse skills in 3D character creation, as I learned how to effectively use Zbrush and incorporate it into my workflow. It was an enriching journey that expanded my knowledge and abilities in creating realistic and visually appealing 3D character models.

Sculpting Progress

Color Testing

Turntable

Additionally, as a personal project, I aimed to hone my skills in Zbrush and human anatomy. This project allowed me to delve into the intricacies of human anatomy and other forms of anatomy, learning how to accurately represent them in Zbrush in order to create convincing and realistic 3D models. I view this project as a valuable opportunity to further my understanding of anatomy and improve my skills in Zbrush, with the goal of completing it in the future when I have more time to dedicate to it.

Rendering & Compositing - Train Interior

As part of my fifth semester, I embarked on a rendering and compositing project with the theme of "Train". This project provided me with an opportunity to deepen my understanding of rendering techniques and familiarize myself with rendering software, while also learning compositing techniques to seamlessly combine multiple visual elements into cohesive and visually appealing composite images or animations. I gained insights into the principles of lighting and shading, enabling me to create realistic lighting setups and shaders to achieve desired visual effects. In addition, I delved into visual storytelling, composition, color theory, aesthetics, and compositing principles to create visually compelling and emotionally engaging images or animations.

Throughout the project, my focus was on understanding the rendering and compositing workflow and pipeline, and effectively integrating rendering and compositing into the overall visual effects production process. This allowed me to develop my technical skills, artistic sensibilities, and problem-solving abilities, resulting in the creation of realistic and visually appealing animations in the field of computer graphics and visual effects.

Train Interior Env - 3 different Mood Colors

As part of my project, I used DaVinci Resolve 18 to composite an image with different mood colors. This project proved to be a valuable learning experience as it allowed me to improve my understanding of DaVinci Resolve and 3D compositing techniques. Through this project, I was able to further develop my skills in compositing and deepen my familiarity with effectively integrating 3D elements into compositing workflows. It provided me with valuable hands-on experience and enhanced my abilities in creating visually appealing and engaging composite images.

Weekly Progress

Texture Progress

Camera Angle Adjust

JK supplies the character model, while Zhao Ying is in charge of rigging the character and anime character walk cycle.

WIP

Rendering Study

During semester 6, this project provided me with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of rendering in Unreal Engine 5. I acquired the skills and knowledge necessary to create visually stunning and realistic graphics using Unreal Engine 5's rendering tools, which included setting up realistic lighting and shading, creating realistic materials and textures, and applying post-processing effects. Additionally, I gained a deeper understanding of Unreal Engine 5's rendering workflows, including setting up and configuring rendering settings, working with shaders, and creating custom materials to achieve desired visual results. This project allowed me to further hone my skills in mastering rendering techniques, optimizing performance, creating realistic visuals, exploring advanced rendering features, troubleshooting rendering issues, and pushing creative boundaries to create visually compelling and engaging real-time 3D content.

PS: All the models from UE Marketplace Megascans

Progress

Engle Shot

3D Animation (Sem01 - Sem06)

This video showcases all the 3D animation projects I completed from semesters 1 to 6.

My 3D student portfolio represents the culmination of my dedication, hard work, and growth throughout my academic journey, reflecting my passion for 3D design and animation. I take pride in the diverse range of projects and assets included in my portfolio, showing my proficiency in various aspects of 3D design. I have acquired a strong foundation in 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, rendering, and compositing through the creation of my portfolio, and have gained valuable experience with industry-standard software and tools. I am optimistic about the future opportunities that my portfolio may bring and have confidence that it will serve as a compelling representation of my skills and abilities as a 3D artist. I am grateful for the invaluable learning experiences, challenges, and achievements encountered during the creation portfolio, and eagerly anticipate continuing my journey in the field of 3D design and animation, armed with the knowledge and experience gained from this portfolio. The portfolio has been an invaluable learning experience, presenting me with challenges and achievements that have shaped me as a 3D artist.