Mantobud - Pokemon creation

This was my third project at Learn3D. ([link]) The brief was to create an insect-like creature and then superimpose on an image/photograph, and through camera setup, angle and lighting, make it as believable as possible that the creature is in the same space.

I wanted to create a bug-like Pokemon and a realistic look to it. The name Mantobud came from fusing Mantodea (which is the scientific word for praying mantises) and Bud (Flower bud). It's in the first evolution stage so it's still fairly small and cute... compared to other Pokemons' size... but compare it to any other insect in the real world, think most people's reaction would be: "Kill it with fire!" But it's actually quite friendly, all it wants to do is ride on your shoulder and nibble your ear off...

He is curious seeing models of himself on the screens by my desk at my college! Don't press alt + F4! Haven't saved my file yet! lol

The project took 4 weeks. Week 1 was coming up with concepts, drawings and basic modeling done. Week 2 was sculpting. Week 3 was texturing. Finally week 4 was taking the photos, setting up the camera, lighting materials, rendering, and finishing touches of the render in Photoshop.

Thinking of doing the project again in my own time, improving the designs, make a simple, Pokemon style version to suit gaming engine and perhaps create the evolution stages and even animated pixel sprites! Anyway, just an idea.

Programs used: Autodesk Maya 2011, Autodesk Mudbox 2012 and Adobe Photoshop CS5.

Completed on: 2011-06-27