Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)For anyone looking to learn how to model and texture a human face from the pros this is an excellent book. There are a few techniques described in the book that are not particularly helpful IMHO but, overall it is a great resource. The first chapter on modeling was not well executed because it really did not give a clear idea about how to go about modeling a human head from scratch. Instead it described how to begin modeling from a pre-existing head the modeler had already created using some proprietary tools written by the modeler to assist him so it is of no use whatsoever if you are just starting out. The rest of the book is quite good and there are some gems later on. I also purchased the DVD with the book which includes all of the models, photography and textures. Overall, I was not tremendously impressed with the DVD. The photography is well done, as are the textures (though there are some areas above the eye and in the ears that could be improved but I can forgive these as they are minor). The modeling however is not well executed IMHO. The mesh topology left a lot to be desired in some key areas around the mouth, chin, eyes, ears and nose. Also there is considerable geometry in the ears but, it is not used particularly well. I don't feel like the modeling was very accurate or faithful to the photography either, specifically around the eyes (they are much too large for a real human; I assume some creative license was taken here). TO be fair, the modeler in question (Hong Suck Suh) is a tremendously talented person and I am I awe of most of his other work but, I don't think this is one of his more successful creative ventures. I highly recommend purchasing the book but, save your money on the DVD unless you are looking for some great photography and DX tools to use for texturing.
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Designed for artists with a mid- to advanced understanding of 3-D character creation, Essence: The Face teaches the skills of a professional character modeling team encompassing reference photography, modeling, UV mapping, texturing, and rendering to create a digital double that would be at home in a next-gen game or HD movie.
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