ds creative 06

3amazing free gifts for you to download+ a hidden surprise

and a 25 page downloadableTutorial

We show you one of the easiest ways to get to gripswith depth of field

Fuzzy or SharpDS Creative get in the festivemood with a santa sized sackload of prizes to be won

It’s Christmas time

The magazine for DAZ Studio usersDS creative

Issue 06 DECEMBER 2014

Scott LivingstonCorvidae

6Content Library OverviewDesign Anvil takes us on a journey through the content library and explain what goes where.

Page 48Depth of FieldWWe look at how to add depth of field (DOF) to your images and we include render settings to help keep it noise free.

Page 80Do you Toon?Matt Allgood tries some alternative rendering tech-niques by using the Cartoon renderer.

Tutorials

Page 16General Gallery 1The first part of monthly look at the best artwork from the DAZ community.

Page 51Our 2014 favoritesMembers of the DS Creative team look back over the Members of the DS Creative team look back over the amazing artwork from our 2014 images and pick their favourites.

Page 66General Gallery 2More amazing artwork from from some of the best artists the DAZ community has to offer.

Galleries

Page 10Vendor SpotlightIn the first of this month's vendor spotlights we talk to Fred Winkler of FWArt.

Page 26Artist SpotlightThis months artist spotlight and cover artist is California This months artist spotlight and cover artist is California based artist Sandra Bauser.

Page 42Vendor SpotlightIn the second of this month's vendor spotlights we talk to the master of the grand architectural environment Jack Tomalin.

Page 62 Page 62Vendor SpotlightIn our third Vendor Spotlight we put our questions to Chikako Hatanaka from Meshbox.

Page 76Vendor SpotlightOur final Christmas vendor spotlight are masters of the Our final Christmas vendor spotlight are masters of the whimsical it’s Aeon Soul.

Spotlights

Page 6NewsdeskA look at the news from the world of DAZ Studio includ-ing important new releases

Page 32Rythym of the Dance Competition WinnersYou sent us some amazingly good images, but who has danced to victory.

Page 41 & 57Favourite FiveNot one Favorite Five but two, so what is the content that two of our readers just can’t live without.

Page 46Competition TimeCompetition TimeIt’s Christmas so we have something special planned for this great seasonal competition.

Page 82ContributorsWe say thank you to all those people that have made this special issue of DS Creative possible.

REGULARS

CONTENTS

Page 3

Hidden Gift

Hidden within the magazine pages (on-line version only) is a link to a secret freebie - Registeration on Chikakos site is a must inorder to get it and it's only available until Dec.15th

Upon the Christmas tree it shines bright and Santa wears it withpride and might

Camilla Drakenborg Editor in Chief

It's our Christmas Special! Issue 6! Wow that's like 7 months of work and HARD work! It's constantly going on, as one issue is released the work for the next one is already in the making.Managing a magazine & team while managing "your" life has been a learning curve to say the least. But we seem to manage it, so far, each month but all thanks to my fantastic team (& a special shout out to our Phil, my sidekick that somehow manages to put together the pages with barely a week to go, you are a champ!) & of course all of you that help us out with tutorials, images and articles. I salute you!

Merry Christmas & Happy New year (yes its a bit early but next time I will "see" ya, it will be 2015!!!Merry Christmas & Happy New year (yes its a bit early but next time I will "see" ya, it will be 2015!!!

Phil Thompson Senior Production Designer

Well the Christmas season is coming and here at DS Creative we wanted to celebrate the festive season in style, So for our first ever Christmas issue we have included more: this month we have three vendor spotlights from some of the biggest names in the business and we have increased the number of freebies from our usual two to four.

Our Christmas competition reaches new heights with an amazing 25 prizes but, unlike past months where there were 3 Our Christmas competition reaches new heights with an amazing 25 prizes but, unlike past months where there were 3 winners, this month we are spreading the Christmas spirit by randomly allocating our 25 prizes to 25 winning entries, which will hopefully increase peoples’ chances of winning a prize. However, for the first time, we are having to limit com-petition entries to one entry per person.At the same time as the magazine was in mid production came the news that DAZ Studio 4.7 had been released and then came the news that Preta3D was to release Reality 4 on December 1st, so there’s lots of interest in the world of DAZ Studio.

So to all our wonderful readers, have a wonderful time over this Christmas period and we will see you in 2015.So to all our wonderful readers, have a wonderful time over this Christmas period and we will see you in 2015.

DS CreativeIssue six of

ToWELCOME

Christmas Party Free Dress

http://4eyes.code66.se/dsc/Freedress.zip

PRESENTSBobbie25

https://www.facebook.com/bobbie.brundonBobbie25 Designs

To get your copy of DAZ Studio 4.7 go to: http://www.daz3d.com/

Amongst the team here there are several features that interest us deeply

The IRP Aux Viewport. A fast, progressive, and almost interactive render to quickly give

you feedback on how lighting and materials will come out. It will give you:

• An almost instant feedback on how your render will look.• Very good for testing out different light configurations.• Handy to see displacement related poke through which are only visible at render time.

DAZ Studio 4.7 now sports 3Delight version 11, which has several speed improvements DAZ Studio 4.7 now sports 3Delight version 11, which has several speed improvements

compared to version 10 which was in DAZ Studio 4.6. Some of those improvements are:

• Overall performance enhancements for raytracing.• Using UberEnvironment in Global illumination (GI) mode is now feasible render time wise.

• People using LAMH or Garibaldi Hair System will see an improvement in 3Delight ren-dering 3Delight hair.

Also included is Camera Local Dimension Override this means that you can now set differ-Also included is Camera Local Dimension Override this means that you can now set differ-

ent render dimensions for each camera in your scene which override the global dimen-

sions in the render settings.

• Truly Transparent Backgrounds• Camera Local Dimension Override• Render Settings Pane• Script IDE Pane• City Limits Layout• City Limits Lite Layout•• Darkside Style Default• Extended Texture Format Support• Photoshop CC 3D Bridge Support• Render Engine Update

DAZ3D recently released version 4.7 of DAZ Studio and there are changes and improve-

ments right across the programme, from the visual appearance with changes to the

layouts and workspaces to changes within the 3Delight rendering engine.

So whats new in DAZ Studio 4.7

• Scene Builder (Redesign)• Keyboard Scene Navigation• Scene Navigator Tool• Center Dock Area• Viewport Pane• Aux Viewport Pane• Interactive Progressive Rendering (IPR)• Environment Pane• "Back to Base"

NEW SDESKDS Creative

Rendering via reality does not block DAZ Studio so you can work on other scenes while your render is running, so helping you to make the most of your time.

Reality takes a leap forward on the 1st of December with the launch of Reality 4 for both DAZ Studio and Poser, boasting a host of new features including automatic presets for characters such as Victoria 6 so no having to adjust a characters individual surfaces just load and go, plus new universal presets can be applied to any surface in your scene.

Some of the amazing new features

• New Skin material with SSS (sub-surface scattering)

• Light Emitting Materials

• Non-blocking interface: keep Reality open while you work in Studio

• Procedural textures: unleash the power of LuxRender to new levels

• Bricks

•• Wood

• Checkers

• Clouds

• and more!

• Mix textures together for astounding effects

• Six Water ripple presets and the ability to create your own

• Automatic Presets library with presets for V6, M6, V4, and many others. Presets work • Automatic Presets library with presets for V6, M6, V4, and many others. Presets work

between Studio and Poser.

• Material library with presets for Metals, Jade, Latex etc. Make your own and reuse any

time. Share them with other Reality artists.

• User-defined volumes that can be assigned to any shape

• Cloth material

• Glass caustics

• Material synchronization• Material synchronization

• Easy export-import of material presets

• SmartIBL direct support

• Simpler light editor

• Support for Studio instances

• And much more

For more information on Reality 4 check out the Preta3D website at:

http://preta3d.com/http://preta3d.com/


As Christmas approaches millions of children

around the world start to wonder just when

Santa will arrive, one way for them to under-

stand is by visiting the NORAD tracks SANTA

website this annual event has taken place since

the mid-1950s with radio and telephone, now in

its 59th year.

http://www.noradsanta.org/http://www.noradsanta.org/

So where does this fit in to the world of DAZ

Studio and 3D graphics, well since 2006 Proac-

tive International divisions Meshbox Design and

Mirye Software have been corporate contribu-

tors.

What do we contribute? Meshbox Design

makes the ultimate 3D Santa Claus for Poser &

DAZ Studio, Toon Santa(tm).

Toon Santa was created in 2002, with numerous

improvements since its inception. Beginning in

2006, we started doing annual releases with

new themes, props, poses and clothing sets, as new themes, props, poses and clothing sets, as

well as a corresponding themed Christmas

Village building set - typically expanding on the

North Pole, home of Santa Claus. This year, the

theme is Wild West Santa.

This year, you will also see the NORAD special This year, you will also see the NORAD special

edition version of Toon Santa on T-shirts from

itrackedsanta.com, downloadable content from

the NORAD Tracks Santa website, and possibly

more surprise appearances.


How did you get into 3d modelling & how long have you been doing it?Well, it came together by accident actually. I started off painting the traditional way, with Well, it came together by accident actually. I started off painting the traditional way, with pencil, oil, watercolour, etc. I really enjoyed it and was quite successful. But after a while my wrists started hurting and this got progressively worse over time. It got to a point where I couldn't hold the brush for a long time at all. I tried using strong supporting wrist bandages, but I was still only able to do up to approximately 30 minutes before it became too painful. After a while, the thought of even picking up the brush was too much to bear because I knew the pain would soon return. It was devastating to think that I couldn't do what I had set my heart on. However I wasn't ready to give up that easily, so I started what I had set my heart on. However I wasn't ready to give up that easily, so I started looking into alternatives. I came across Poser and I instantly loved it because I was able to make my creations with less manual action and therefore not the strain on my wrists, which was a real blessing. Even from the beginning I was constantly customising the characters, including creating new morphs, new make-ups, etc, so the creations weren't fully my own. When someone asked me what character I used as they wanted it, I couldn't let them have it, since the original wasn't created by me, it was only customised. So I then decided to create a character from scratch. I loved this so much. I gave it to some of my friends, who create a character from scratch. I loved this so much. I gave it to some of my friends, who gave me some great feedback. From there, I never looked back and everything went from strength to strength.

Fred Winkler

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT

What is the biggest challenge for you when creating a new product?Probably the biggest challenge is in Probably the biggest challenge is in creating something that is unique enough. I have some great friends who I share my WIPs with who will tell me if I go down a route I went before, to ensure my boys and girls don't end up looking too similar. The tendency is when you put your heart and soul into when you put your heart and soul into things that they will all turn out to your own personal taste and look alike. To me, there is nothing worse than having products that all look too similar. Of course we are all just human, so it may sometimes happen that I end up with a similar nose shape, or something like similar nose shape, or something like that, but I do try to keep my characters as different and unique as possible. So that's definitely the biggest challenge. Another big challenge for me is the Another big challenge for me is the make-ups... I am not a makeup artist, I never have worn makeup, so it is com-pletely alien to me. However I get pictures of makeup and try to create it on my girls. But that is bound to be a challenge for most guys.

Where do you get your inspiration from?Inspiration comes from all around me, from life itself. It could be a picture I've seen or something I've read in a book that inspires me. It can even be a walk out in the woods in the snow and it inspires me to create a snow elf, or something along those lines. I have a folder for ideas I created on my computer, so any time I have an idea, see a picture etc, I put it in there.

Which items do you enjoy creating the most? Which items do you enjoy creating the most? Well that would have to be my characters. During my time creating products I have put my hands to texturing, and while that was great, I didn't like the fact that I wasn't able to be as creative as I wanted to be. I really love creating my girls and boys and it's fun seeing them come to life.

Which program(s) do you create your models in?I do my main morphing of the characters in ZBrush, I love how versatile it is, and espe-I do my main morphing of the characters in ZBrush, I love how versatile it is, and espe-cially nowadays with the HD morphs. It's a pleasure to work with. But I also use DAZ Studio and Poser to ensure it works perfectly in both and looks great in each program. Sometimes some morph adjustments need to be made for Poser afterwards, but my main program to morph in is Zbrush. For textures, I use Blacksmith3D and Photoshop.

Typically how long does it take from initial idea to finished model?That's a tough one to answer, because each one is so different. I have some characters in That's a tough one to answer, because each one is so different. I have some characters in my store that took me a month or so to create from start to finish, while others can come together in a week. So I'd say on average we're looking at about 2 weeks.

http://www.daz3d.com/fwartVISIT Fred Winklers Store at DAZ3Dhttp://www.daz3d.com/fwart

Which are your 3 personal favorite Vendors?There are so many amazingly talented vendors out there that it would be impossible to narrow down to only 3. Also, naming 3 could set me up for a lynch mob, so I think I'll say that I love them all equally and move swiftly on.....

If you could add one new feature to daz studio, what would it be?An render in background option. When I do promos, I like to set up my next scene while one is running, since I am often on a An render in background option. When I do promos, I like to set up my next scene while one is running, since I am often on a deadline. So, an option to render in the background while working on the next scene would be awesome, especially since it would use less CPU and allows the PC to run smoother.

How does it make you feel when you see peoples artwork made with your products?I absolutely love it! I am in contact with many artists who use my characters in their work. I love seeing what is done with I absolutely love it! I am in contact with many artists who use my characters in their work. I love seeing what is done with them. Sometimes I see things done with them that I hadn't thought about before, so that makes me feel excited. I have many people tag images on FB so I get to see them, which I absolutely love. It's always great to see other people's creativity.

Can you give us a hint of what is to come?Well, I can't give too much away because it's a team release. But I really love what was done. All I can reveal is that Mirela is connected to that release and I have no doubt you'll love it :)There is also a really cool seasonal release coming soon. One or both of these may possibly be out already when this issue is There is also a really cool seasonal release coming soon. One or both of these may possibly be out already when this issue is published. I also have a lot of great new ideas for some awesome products next year, which I hope you will all love.

What one piece of advice would you give to someone starting out creating for Daz Studio?Just go for it. The barometer is following your passion. Just go for it. The barometer is following your passion. Remember that as the cliche goes, "Rome wasn't built in a day". It will take time to master your skill. But you won't do it unless you make a start. Start off with a small item, whether that is anything texture wise, or modelling, morphing, whatever it is, do something small, and build it from there. If your first attempts aren't particularly good, persevere. We all get better aren't particularly good, persevere. We all get better over time. The only really important thing is enjoying yourself.

Which 3 are your personal favorites of your own products? Well that's a tough one. It's like asking a parent who their favourite child is. But like most artists, we usually most enjoy our most recent creations because they are fresh. So, I'd have to go with my last few cre-ations as I just loved working with them. There is Mirela. She's a team release and I worked on her with some great people. I loved working with her, simply because she was great fun to create. Another one is because she was great fun to create. Another one is Ellie-Jane. She started off completely out of the blue when I was just playing around and not really planning to do anything special. But then suddenly a face appeared and she was born in that moment. After that, I am torn. I LOVED creating La LLorona with Sabby because we had so much fun. But I also love my boy, Oliver. La Llorona may win by a slight margin, but boy, Oliver. La Llorona may win by a slight margin, but as you can tell, I love them all.

http://4eyes.code66.se/dsc/FWLarissa.zip

FWArtPresents

Black is Beautiful

Black is BeautifulJeff Thomas

UntitledMarkus BaGermany

After the KillEsaPesaEsaPesaNew Zealand

Gallery

After the Kill

Untitled

20 Again

20 AgainMary VanAsscheUSA

PrayerTheresa HerlockerUSA

Pit-StopPit-StopSeliah Keller

Prayer

Pit-Stop

Warlock Family

Warlock FamilyLucinda AtmanUSA

MusicSanyel JacksonUSA

AlleyAlleyHenry PolisUSA

Alley

Music

Love Hot Dish

Love Hot DishTotte AlmSweden

Fairy Dust DragonWilliam FarrarUSA

FriendsFriendsFantail451

Gallery

Fairy Dust Dragon

Friends

Encounter

EncounterChristopher HaighoodUSA

A Touch of MagicDebbie GoreckeUSA

Sexy Anime Girl at the MallSexy Anime Girl at the MallKevin StamperUSA

Sexy Anime Girl at the Mall

A Touch of Magic

I left the church after 6 years to get married and married life was wonderful, but I felt a sense of loss because I had loved doing the artwork so much. One day I was browsing around on the internet and came across several fractal generating programs. One was Apophysis, and the other was called Mind Boggling Fractals. Both of them were free to download, so hey, anything free and I’m in! free to download, so hey, anything free and I’m in! LOL! Oh my goodness, I became a fractal making crazy lady. I started making tons of fractal artwork and posting it to Fine Art America.

As I was looking at some of the other works of art As I was looking at some of the other works of art on FAA, I came across some amazing 3D artwork and just had to know how it was made. I was then introduced to Bryce and Daz 3D, and once again, with it being free to download, I was really excited to try it.

I got my start in 3D graphics in a most unlikely place! About 15 years ago I was working for a local church as an assistant to the Children’s Ministry Pastor. One of my jobs was to do all of the artwork and layouts for event posters and publications. I could never find stock artwork that I really liked, so I came across a vector drawing program called Xara X, and it literally changed my life! Xara X had so many fantastic tutorials (and still does) and before you knew it, I was getting rave reviews on all of my art Xara X had so many fantastic tutorials (and still does) and before you knew it, I was getting rave reviews on all of my art and publication work. I was then promoted to publisher of all church newsletters and Sunday bulletins. I then taught myself how to make websites and set up a wonderful site where parishioners could listen to the Sunday sermons online.

From: Turlock, CAHomepage: www.about.me/sbdigital Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandrabauser

Sandra Bauser

Artist SPOTLIGHT

scene! Well, we’re cooking with gas now! LOL! The problem was, I still didn’t know how to use clothing, skin shaders or even hair so my figures were pretty basic. One of the first artworks I made was called “Freedom of Expres-sion” and it is still today one of my favorite artworks.

I have now been using Bryce and Daz for about 7 years and I have to say, it is a constant learning process. When I first started using Bryce, all I could make were standard Boolean objects. It took me quite a lot of trial and error to figure out what I was doing. Working in a 3D program when you’ve never done so, is really a learning process as you find your way around in a X, Y and Z envi-as you find your way around in a X, Y and Z envi-ronment. I never had any lessons and really did not use any tutorials at first. It was truly just learn as you go!

After I got tired of making orbs and boxes, I realized I could make a human figure in Daz and then send it to Bryce and integrate it into my

For every bad review, there were also praises for a job well done.

When people from all over the world started buying my When people from all over the world started buying my artwork, I finally felt like a real artist and all the hundreds of hours of work were paying off. My artwork has been on magazine and book covers, won worldwide art competi-tions and has been featured in many online magazines. It was also purchased for set decoration for the hit Disney TV show “The Neighbors”. I am currently a promotional artist for Elite 3D Artists and I’m having so much fun! If you for Elite 3D Artists and I’m having so much fun! If you haven’t done so already, I encourage you to download Daz 3D and start having fun too! :D

When I finally figured out how to put clothes on my charac-ters, it was now a whole new ballgame. I could now add character to my characters, so to speak. I learned how to pose, because at that time, I didn’t know that you could buy ready-made poses. Boy, how times have changed! But it allowed me to become a better artist and forced me to learn the process of posing your figure manually in your scene.scene.

As the years passed, I became better and better at my art. I bought Poser and started to learn how to use it, but I have to say, Daz is still my favorite 3D program. One of the things I want to say to the readers is to not give up! There were many, many days that I got so frustrated because I couldn’t figure something out, or I wasn’t getting very good peer reviews of my work. But if it’s something you love to do, like it is for me, it is so worth the many hours you put do, like it is for me, it is so worth the many hours you put into it.

Mavrosh StratiotisLoop

Jodie Griffiths1st place

Theresa Herlocker2nd place

LaMuserie3rd place

http://4eyes.code66.se/dsc/DSC_Postworking.zipA 25 PAGE STEP BY STEP GUIDE

If you would like to submit your favourite five just follow the format above, 5 items with links plus your reasons they are must haves, also include a short bio and a peice of your artwork and send it to: [email protected]

TellUs

Your Five

FAVORITE

This release took me completely by surprise. I am not a bot or sci-fi enthusiast, but the pretty promo's made it a must have and when I worked with Triton, it looked wonderful

https://www.yurdigital.com/catalog/8133-hp-tritonHP triton by Hinkypunk05

Always trying to find an excuse to make use of this wonderful set of water props! It comes with some adjustable ripple planes which I use a lot. JoLab asked on the forums for ideas or comments when this set was in the making, and when I men-tioned water droplets they were actually put into the set! How cool is that?!

http://www.daz3d.com/liquid-packLiquid Pack by JoLab198504

Very well made with lots of movement morphs. It's easy to conform to any generation and it renders nicely. Although it's a long cut, it's still very masculine.

http://www.runtimedna.com/Lucian-Hair.htmlLucian Hair by LitlleFox03

I remember making my first render with this combi and how baffled I was when I saw the results. With the aid of LuxRen-der and Reality's intuitive setup, tweaking is made easy, while giving me optimal control over my scenes.

www.luxrender.nethttp://preta3d.com

LuxRender/Reality 2.502

I strive for a level of reality in most of my work, so when DAZ brought out the HD figures I welcomed them with open arms!

http://www.daz3d.com/michael-6-hd-add-onMichael 6 HD01 Estroyer

People know me for my love of the male figure and I am one of those fanatics that's always on the prowl for the latest additions to the male gene pool from DAZ. I've been drawing from a young age and come from a family of artists and designers, so I knew from an early age what I so I knew from an early age what I wanted to become when I grew up. I studied graphic design and drew por-traits (among lots of other things). At the moment I am almost 100% focused on 3D rendering, modeling and texturing. I'm a huge DAZ Studio fan and the openminded helpful com-fan and the openminded helpful com-munity is one where I feel very much at home!

Five Runtime must havesMY FAVOURITE FIVE

Hi! I'm Jack Tomalin, a 3D content developer and part of the Platinum Club admin team at DAZ3D. I live with my wife in the UK, just outside of London. I have been brokering content at DAZ now just over 10 years and an admin for the last 2.

How did you get into 3d modeling & how long have you been doing it?I got into 3D in the very early days of owning an Amiga 500. I would say it was a bit more serious when got an Amiga 4000, I got into 3D in the very early days of owning an Amiga 500. I would say it was a bit more serious when got an Amiga 4000, back when I was around 15 or so (around 17 years ago). On the HD was a copy of Lightwave 3.5 so I basically taught myself to model, spurred on by watching Babylon 5 every week - spending the time between episodes trying to recreate the effects. It progressed from there, and was I was then introduced early on to DAZ and the concept of making money from it when I just left Uni in my early 20's. I'd just come out with my Computer Science degree, and couldn't even get a job inter-view, as was the saturated IT market at the time. So I figured I would give that a shot, and given it made me some money, view, as was the saturated IT market at the time. So I figured I would give that a shot, and given it made me some money, albeit a very modest amount, it was certainly doing better than the IT industry. From there I worked up through the ranks, and now create content alongside running the Platinum Club with the rest of the team.

Where do you get your inspiration from?It's a cliche, but everywhere pretty much. It's cool to have the internet to research stuff, coupled with my obsession for It's a cliche, but everywhere pretty much. It's cool to have the internet to research stuff, coupled with my obsession for books on the subject of art and architeture, means it's easy to grab a coffee and just peruse the bookshelf for ideas. Once something clicks, it's then just a matter of refining into into something that would make a decent product. Travel is also a good source of inspiration, and seeing classic architecture really helps get a feeling for the sense of scale and presence that I try to instill into my works.

Which items do you enjoy creating the most? Can't say I really have a preference - but ones which I can go from start to finish without having to force are always good. Can't say I really have a preference - but ones which I can go from start to finish without having to force are always good. Some projects, for whatever reason, are just an uphill struggle and as I tell other people who've asked me for help - you just have to grind your way through them. I have no idea why either, but some projects flow better than others and I can pretty much switch-off and work on autopilot. Those are the best.

Jack Tomalin

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT

do you have any formal training in architectural design?I don't, sadly. I do wish I could have done an art/design/architecture course at University but then the formal training would have put me off I think. That said, I miss the days of goofing off Uni to watch films, play videogames and eat pizza. Just don't tell anyone.

Which program(s) do you create your models in?Primarily Lightwave, but also use 3DS Max, Zbrush and others where it's appropriate Primarily Lightwave, but also use 3DS Max, Zbrush and others where it's appropriate (little apps like UV Layout). Photoshop is then used for texturing and promo work.

Typically how long does it take from initial idea to finished model?A couple of weeks generally. Larger sets like Aslan Court are more months rather than A couple of weeks generally. Larger sets like Aslan Court are more months rather than weeks though. Those are the ones where it's a test of mental strength to get them over the line. Turn-arounds have been a quick as 3 days, but given the lack of sleep I wouldn't recommend it. Conversely, the Dream Home project from start to finish was over 18 months. It's also a universal constant that by the end a project, you will have grown to hate it.

What is the biggest challenge for you when creating a new product?These days, it's simply finding the time and head-space to juggle both the admin side of These days, it's simply finding the time and head-space to juggle both the admin side of running the Platinum Club and the actual 'day job' of creating content. My ideas list is only ever getting longer, and the array of series that I have on the go (like West Park, GIS, Curi-ous/Dubious etc etc) means I'm never short of ideas or things to do. Also, having a mortgage means I won't be able to give up work any time soon either.

Can you give us a hint of what is to come? I'd love to say I know, actually. I personally have a lot I'd love to say I know, actually. I personally have a lot of plans, and we also have plans to develop the PC. What will come of it all, I honestly couldn't hazard a guess. I do know there are always exciting things coming out of DAZ which will be very cool to see - but of course, I couldn't possibly say.

When will you get a raise from DAZ?Hahaha, good question indeed! I dare say if the PC Hahaha, good question indeed! I dare say if the PC continues to grow then maybe.. that's my goal at least. We just survived the anniversary sale, so that's a good start ;)

Thanks for the invitation to contribute to DS Creative.. hope everyone enjoys the freebie.

Cheers :)

What one piece of advice would you give to someone starting out creating for Daz Studio?Make sure you enjoy it. It's a lonely existence and 90% of the real work is the mental aspect of it. You need to be self-moti-vated basically. Take plenty of breaks too, and drink lots of water. Ok, that's more than one, but.. this is more of a life-style than a job, so make sure you can live it like one.

Which 3 are your personal favorites of your own products? Tough question. 1 - Sacrament. I just love the scale of this set. It's not quite the same feeling as actaully standing inside cathederals and like, 1 - Sacrament. I just love the scale of this set. It's not quite the same feeling as actaully standing inside cathederals and like, but it's not too far off.2 - West Park (the series). This really captured the imagination of everyone. I've always loved abandoned buildings etc, and thought an old hospital ward would look cool. From there, it's grown into a whole series and everyone still loves it. You know when items are popular when you start seeing copy-cat products everywhere.3 - Aslan Court. Again, this was another grandiose set which I knocked up on a bit of a whim. It was around the time I was 3 - Aslan Court. Again, this was another grandiose set which I knocked up on a bit of a whim. It was around the time I was offered the job of joining the PC admin team so I actually put it out as a PC item to celebrate. Again, was very popular - but I think it was more the price than anything. However, for a relatively simple design, it packs a decent punch.

Which are your 3 personal favorite Vendors?I couldn't possibly pick. However, I do have a soft-spot for PA's who feature in the Platinum Club. It's a tough gig to get I couldn't possibly pick. However, I do have a soft-spot for PA's who feature in the Platinum Club. It's a tough gig to get into, so it's quite a feat. I've personally tried to mentor people too into the PC, so it's always good to pay it forward and see those people grow and develop as artists. There is a mis-conception that the PC is a closed-group and impossible to break into. That's not the case, it's just a tricky set of parameters that products (and artists themselves) have to fulfill, and often it's easier to just dismiss as 'too much effort' or the fact that we're too hard to work with. Just for the record, neither are correct! ;)

If you could add one new feature to daz studio, what would it be?If you could add one new feature to daz studio, what would it be?I'd like the rendering engine to get a revamp, so we could produce some better quality renders a little easier. It's not too bad for us that know the tricks, but I think new users would get a kick out of getting the same quality renders a little easier.

How does it make you feel when you see peoples artwork made with your products?It's always good to see, of course. Like I said previously, it's a lonely existence doing this, so to see content being used helps It's always good to see, of course. Like I said previously, it's a lonely existence doing this, so to see content being used helps establish that connection between you and the customers. I think the most surreal experience was seeing one of my products in a music store (it was a Nightwish DVD 'End of an Era'). Then there was this one time I was recognised in a local pub.. now that was weird!. But yea, I'm always humbled to see artwork made, and receive all the cool and kind emails of thanks and ideas etc.

http://4eyes.code66.se/dsc/Deco_Prop_DSC.zip

DECO PROPSJACK TOMALIN PRESENTS

DECO PROPSJACK TOMALIN PRESENTS

TheEasiest ChristmasCompetition Ever

25RANDOMPRIZES

All competition submissions are to be sent to:[email protected]

All submissions must be new artwork and must not have been displayed online beforeImages can be either portrait or landscape Deadline is 23:59 UTC on the 22nd of December-14For full prize Information and for full term’s and conditions For full prize Information and for full term’s and conditions visit our Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/dazcreative/

Prizes For our Christmas competition we have put together a pool of 25 assorted prizes ranging from store credit to specific content and software and this time there is no 1st, 2nd and 3rd, just winners after the deadline the team at DS Creative will start picking winning images who will each receive a randomly drawn prize from the pool.

Please only one entry per personIf you submit more than one entry all subsequent entries will be invalid.If you submit more than one entry all subsequent entries will be invalid.

For our Christmas competition all we are asking you to do is to send us a Christmas themed image that will make us smile, So Santa being chased by Orcs, Elves riding Harley Davidsons or Rudolph getting a tan in Bermuda or you can go with a traditional Christmas theme, It’s all up to you

The Easiest Christmas Competition EverDS Creatives

The focal length determines just how much of our scene can be seen in the render we will use the Focus Distance and F-Stop to set up our depth of field.

The smaller the focal length of the lens, the greater the depth of field. Just like a wide angle lens, longer focal length will give a much smaller range of depth of field just like a telephoto lens.

The closer the focus distance is to the camera the smaller the depth of field will be.

The F-Stop. Increasing the F-stop number increases the depth of field, so to set The F-Stop. Increasing the F-stop number increases the depth of field, so to set up depth of field in DAZ Studio, it will be a combination of the above 3 param-eters.

So why would we want areas of the image soft and fuzzy rather than crisp and sharp? Having some sections of our image out of focus while others are sharp helps to focus our attention onto the areas of more importance in the image and it also helps to give a greater perception of depth.

There are 3 things that will affect the amount of depth of field in an image and these are the same as in photography:

Focal length, Focus Distance,and F-Stop.

What is "Depth of Field" and how can we utilize this helpful tool in DAZ Studio?

In optics, particularly as it relates to film and photography, depth of field (or DOF) is the distance between the nearest object and the farthest object in a scene that appears acceptably sharp in an image. Although a lens can precisely focus at only one distance at a time, the decrease in sharpness is gradual on each side of the focused distance. The difference between the explanation above and the DAZ Studio rendering engine is that by default DAZ will render objects perfectly sharp, regardless of the distance from the camera.

NO DEPTH OF FIELD

BROAD DEPTH OF FIELD

NARROW DEPTH OF FIELD

DEPTH OF FIELD

In the image below, the camera was focussed on the windscreen of the jeep and the F-stop was adjusted to allow the depth of field to just about cover the jeep front to back. So you can see that the jeep is nice and crisp, but the guy in the foreground is nicely out of focus as is the background guy.

Now as with all things DAZ Studio we could set this up by the numbers or even trial and error but l will show you a quick and easy visual method. Change your viewport view to either perspective, top or one of the side views.We want one where we can see the camera and the item that is going to be at the point of focus. You can see from my screenshot I have used perspective view looking downward from the side and with the camera selected you can see the camera is focussed on the large white sphere. On either side of that sphere there are planes that indicate the front and rear planes of focus, in between there are planes that indicate the front and rear planes of focus, in between them will be sharp, beyond them will be out of focus. Now by adjusting the Focus Distance and the F-stop sliders we can adjust the position and amount of depth of field for our image. Just remember to switch back to your camera view before hitting render.

SO TO ADD DEPTH OF FIELD

Firstly we need a camera in our scene, Firstly we need a camera in our scene, although we can render through perspec-tive view for depth of field we must have a camera. So with a camera added and positioned as required we could add depth of field, but hold on, I suggest adding DOF after we have done every-thing else and gotten our test renders out of the way as DOF does increase render times.With the camera selected go to the camera section of the parame-ters tab, we need to turn on Depth of Field.

CAMERA OPTIONS

DEPTH OF FIELD& FINAL RENDERS

When you have your DOF set up and it is time for the final render pay close attention the Pixel Samples X and Y settings in the Advanced Render Setting pane, the default is 4.

Pixel Samples X and Y are mainly there for anti-aliasing but comes in to play more with DOF. When DOF is used these need to be increased. Refer to the low quality render below and look at where the pixilation occurs, the arrows will guide you. In conjunction with increasing the Pixel Samples X and In conjunction with increasing the Pixel Samples X and Y, decreasing the Shading Rate value, lower value being higher quality. 0.2 should be good enough for most images but you may have to lower it more in some cases.

This relationship between DOF and Pixel Samples X and Y depends on the This relationship between DOF and Pixel Samples X and Y depends on the Value of the F-Stop. The higher the F-Stop Value the less blur which requires less Pixel Samples. The lower the F-Stop value the more blur which requires higher Pixel Samples. Since I had a low F-Stop value of 10 meaning more blur (see image below) I used the Maximum Pixel Samples X and Y setting of 16.

I have been a huge Final fantasy fan since I was about 16 years old.

So when I saw "Lightning returns" my thoughts instantly went to FF without even knowing the piece was Celciles way of

honoring her love for FF.

The whole piece just oozes FF, the colors, the light, even the armor yet it stands as a original piece, a whole new character

with her own story, which I wouldn't mind seeing in an upcoming FF game!

There is just the right amount of highlights and glow and the background gives a hint of a mysterious and beautiful scenery There is just the right amount of highlights and glow and the background gives a hint of a mysterious and beautiful scenery

which FF usually has.

I chose this piece as my favorite trough out our DS Creative issues because not only does it bring back found memories of

my time playing FF, makes me wanna pull out the recent one we got and play it right now, but the overall piece of art is

just simply beautiful and so vibrant in colors!

Camilla Drakenborg

Camilla Drakenborgs Choice

As this is the last issue of 2014, our fledgling year we decided that the team members of DS Creative should pick their favorite image that has been show-cased since our first issue way back in july.

Favorite 2014 Images>

>DS Creative’s

With such an amazing and diverse selection of images that we have received since we started DC Creative Magazine, it’s

been no easy task for me to pick the image I liked the most. But, after much consideration, I managed to narrow it down

to “Battle Ground” by Sandra Bauser which was published in our very first issue. I’ve always been a sucker for strong

female characters, and Sandra’s character here shows that strength hands down. The colour choices she’s made really

make the character “pop” against the environment which is suitably destroyed. And finally, the use of DOF (or Depth of

Field) hasn’t been overdone, but more importantly, it’s been used correctly in my vieField) hasn’t been overdone, but more importantly, it’s been used correctly in my view. The pose of the character is one

of high energy, high action, arms wide and I imagine the feet are equally spaced as well. Because the character is pointing

off to the side, having them totally in focus wouldn’t be right, so only having the body and head in focus while the arms

and gun are out of focus fits perfectly.

Matt Allgood

Matt Allgoods Choice

It was a hard decision picking just one image from four issues but this image stuck me, well slapped me around the face

really. Ok not your typical image size but the composition works so well to draw the eye to the very expressive figure.

The contrast between light and dark blew my mind. The lighting is of the highest quality in my uneducated opinion. It adds

drama and shows off the surfaces and small details of the props used. The camera position gives the viewer an uneasy

feeling of actually being there which adds to the drama. Why she is so angry adds that interpretation of story that so

many images lack these days. My only negative opinion is that the breasts are too big and/or don’t have enough gravity. I many images lack these days. My only negative opinion is that the breasts are too big and/or don’t have enough gravity. I

think it spoils a great, no a superb image.

Szark BWC

This image really go to me. I can’t say it’s a technically perfect image, but her pose, expression, hair and the dramatic

lighting really speaks out I’m here and I’m gonna kill you, no matter who or what you are.

On the technical aspect there are some shards of glass that is over exposed or whitened during post work, but I mentally

crop those out and focus on her. I would have cropped that away, just having her perfectly framed, but all in all, this

image really stood out.

Totte Alm

Totte Alms & Szark BWC’s Choice

Could anything be more perfect than David Ella Ella's "Sixth" piece? As a beginner in DAZ in always amazed at the various

quality of art we feature. But seriously... The skill level of this particular piece has a top place in my favorites. It's a perfect

example of what can happen when you follow the rule of thirds correctly, from the slightly blurred background to the

almost realistic skin texture he used. The character's expression is one of serenity, as if he knows he is a work of art in

progress that will become an amazing portrait of the street pharaoh being created. Bravo, Mr. Ella. The light choice is

exceptional, and everything in this piece just meshes together so damn well that it made this beginner stare in awe at the exceptional, and everything in this piece just meshes together so damn well that it made this beginner stare in awe at the

perfection that is rapidly becoming David's trademark in all the work he creates.

Bravo David, exceptional artwork.

Sanyel Jackson

I've choose this image because the lighting, composition and expression of the character are in perfect concordance. The

rule of the thirds seems perfectly applied here. The blurred background give a very strong contrast to this render and

subtly underline the delicacy of the skin.

Samir Rouabhi Deleuze

Samir Rouabhi Deleuze & Sanyel Jacksons Choice

Well, there you have it, the favourite image submitted by you, our readers, and chosen by the members of the team here

at DS Creative Magazine. And speaking of images, I have to say that the sheer number of pieces that have been submitted

since we started this little venture has been staggering! But what has been a surprise to all of us I think, is the quality of

the work that has been submitted.

WWe would all like to give you, our readers, a huge round of applause, a high five, a pat on the back, to congratulate you all

on the amount of effort, dedication and skill that has been shown in every piece that has been submitted. The gusto with

which you have taken up every challenge has been inspiring to the whole team, and believe me when I say that at times

we have needed that inspiration.

Starting and then continuing a project like DS Creative Magazine has been something that none of us really had any idea on Starting and then continuing a project like DS Creative Magazine has been something that none of us really had any idea on

what to expect, how to do it, how to cope with the pressure that success brings. One of the things that has helped is you

and your support through the submission of your work. So with the year drawing to a close, the team would like to thank

you for your support on Facebook, through the viewing of the magazine, but more importantly, through the submissions of

yours for inclusion in each issue. We have been blown away by what you have all shown us this year, and we can’t wait to

see what you will have to show us in the future.

DS Creative Mag

The challenge of picking just one image from all the ones we have featured since we started back in July was so difficult

there have been so many wonderful images covering so mang genres, but after a lot of deliberation I finally picked "Wish

you were" here by Penelope Chaput I just love this one the colours, the balance. the retro feel This reminds me of my

travels to the south of France and Tuscany, and yes I wish I was there.

Phil Thompson

Phil Thompsons Choice

Bellatryx NoirKuroi

If you would like to submit your favourite five just follow the format above, 5 items with links plus your reasons they are must haves, also include a short bio and a peice of your artwork and send it to: [email protected]

I waited years for a good beard before this one. I love it and use it a lot. It also works on GM2 most of the time, that is it doesn't move when the lower jaw moves on some morphs. There are a good variety of beards and mustaches. It uses fibermesh that isn't dense, so it renders fast. It's not good for closeups because the individual hairs are too far apart and thick to look natural.

http://www.daz3d.com/unshaven-beard-for-genesisUnshaven Beard for Genesis05

You can make a large variety of tops and skirts from this as well as the dress. It has great posing controls, and wonderful smoothing in chest area. It has tights, stockings, and leggings of various lengths. It comes with very nice materials.

http://www.daz3d.com/super-dress-and-leggings-for-genesis-2-female-s

Super Dress and Leggings for Genesis 2 Female(s)

04

A great SciFi environment with mix of building styles and layed out so you can do renders from lots of angles. If there is an empty spot in the background I fill it in with a Stonemason Greeble or Utopian Cityscape Block.

http://www.daz3d.com/urban-future-4-street-levelUrban Future 4 :Street Level03

I like to use a lot of background figures and these are easy on my system. They aren't good for closeup; it helps to add SubD to smooth them.

http://www.daz3d.com/lorenzo-and-loretta-bundleLorenzo and Loretta Bundle02

I like all three of these lights. The Advanced Ambient Light is great for simple renders and for filling in dark areas in a larger scene. The Advanced Distant Light and Advanced Spot Light have great shadow control. I like that with all three I can select slow-rendering surfaces like hair and use "primitive hitmode" or "do not illuminate" for faster render time.

http://www.daz3d.com/advanced-daz-studio-light-bundleAdvanced DAZ Studio Light Bundle01

Lucinda AtmanI am a retired graphic artist, tech illus-trator and draftsman (among other things.) I graduated from art school a long time ago and have been a mostly frustrated painter. I have been involved with CG since the early 80s, working on very primitive CAD software. I fiddled with Poser from software. I fiddled with Poser from the early versions trying to make models for painting. Three years ago I began learning DAZ Studio and now spend a lot of time (and money) doing renders. My favorite genre is mixed genre and humor, from whimsy to darkly satirical. to darkly satirical.

Five Runtime must havesMY FAVOURITE FIVE

Some of the stunning entries from this months Rythym of the Dance competition.

Thanks to everyone that entered, some truly amazing work.

DANCEFROM THESNAPSHOTS

Jean MorneauAlice in Phaserland

Is Chikako solo or a team? chikako (with a little "c") is my online persona, but it's also my first name. It sort of became a business moniker for me because so many Poser and DAZ Studio sites insist on personal names rather than business names.

I wear a lot of hats. One of them is Art Director at Meshbox Design, but I also do some I wear a lot of hats. One of them is Art Director at Meshbox Design, but I also do some work for Mirye Software, a sister division of Meshbox Design. Both are a part of a larger organization, Proactive International, which is a business development company. Meshbox Design is all design and animation. Mirye Software is software and content publishing.

Meshbox Design is a team of seven, plus an assortment of part time and contractors.

Nowadays, Meshbox has its own spin off team: Toon People. Toon People is responsible for Nowadays, Meshbox has its own spin off team: Toon People. Toon People is responsible for our line of free toon characters. There is a blog for Toon People announcements at http://www.toonpeople.com.

How did you get into 3d modeling & how long have you been doing it?I got into 3D in the year 2000. Our parent company had negotiated a republishing agree-I got into 3D in the year 2000. Our parent company had negotiated a republishing agree-ment in Japan for e-on software, makers of Vue. I became interested in Poser in 2002, when Poser was still a part of Curious Labs. The Proactive team had negotiated a deal for an early version of PoserFusion to be included in Vue.

chikako

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT

A few of us content creators have set up Content Creator's Guild for indepen-dent vendors. The new site at: http://www.contentcreatorsguild.com looks a bit empty. That's because we just rebooted it. In fact, we haven't done an official announcement yet! My advice is to join and pitch in with your advice, and also to ask questions. Submit your vendor site to the directory. Submit your releases.releases.

Where you go all depends on if you want to really make a living as a content creator. I know some individuals make a modest full time living selling DAZ Studio content, directly through DAZ 3D. DAZ 3D's terms (and HiveWire3D are similar) tend to force you to either go 100% with them or not at all. If you can live with them or not at all. If you can live with the risk of 100% of your money depending on only one company selling your goods, then DAZ 3D is probably just for you. But then there is the flipside to the risk of being independent, selling directly and through multiple partners like Meshbox does - there is a lot of like Meshbox does - there is a lot of work that goes into being independent.

Where do you get your inspiration from?Ideas come from every member of our team.

Which program(s) do you create your models in?We use several applications in house. Most modeling is done in 3DS MAX with Texturing We use several applications in house. Most modeling is done in 3DS MAX with Texturing in Mudbox or Zbrush. I happen to like Vue a lot for rendering, though just recently I've started using FluidRay RT and that's got me quite excited. I am always hunting for a better modeling experience.

Typically how long does it take from initial idea to finished model?Most of our buildings take 2-3 weeks in total. Characters are a lot harder, especially our Most of our buildings take 2-3 weeks in total. Characters are a lot harder, especially our Toon People ones. A base model takes 1-2 months for modeling, then we regularly update those. Each update can take a few weeks.

What is the biggest challenge for you when creating a new product?It is a combination of fresh concept and estimating interest. We've stayed away from doing a lot of add-ons for popular characters.

What one piece of advice would you give to someone starting out creating for What one piece of advice would you give to someone starting out creating for Daz Studio?DAZ Studio is part of a larger market that also includes Poser. Both have competing tech-nologies and often content creators get caught in the middle. What either company suggests to you is often in their interest and not necessarily yours as a content creator. Both also have competing marketplaces.

VISITMESHBOXATWWW.MESHBOX.COM

Can you give us a hint of what is to come?We have a new free character coming from the Toon People group. Its our missing link after Chunk 3D, Slim 3D and Norm 3D. Once that's done, we can finally kick off DungeonFolks(tm). More info on that will appear on our Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/dungeonfolks.

If you could add one new feature to daz studio, what would it be?That would be modularity. DAZ Studio is designed to be a standalone solution in much the way Poser is. Over the years, the owners of Poser have tried to build workflow links with other solutions, but Id like to see a completely hostable DAZ Studio solution, and not just for DAZ products.

How does it make you feel when you see peoples artwork made with your products?Wonderful! Toon Santa has really gotten the most widespread use through NORAD Tracks Santa. We've also seen our Wonderful! Toon Santa has really gotten the most widespread use through NORAD Tracks Santa. We've also seen our Bible models appear in some television documentaries.

How did Toon Santa come alive?That was really Lynn's contribution. He came up with the original concept.

Toon Santa has evolved since 2002. For the last eight years, a version of Toon Santa has been the official NORAD Tracks Toon Santa has evolved since 2002. For the last eight years, a version of Toon Santa has been the official NORAD Tracks Santa "Santa" and we've been an active corporate contributor to the program. In December 2013, over 20 million people tracked Santa and watched out Santa trek around the world. I would venture a guess that while Victoria is probably the most popular DAZ Studio character, Toon Santa may compete in views with people not directly associ-ated with the 3d market.

Which 3 are your personal favorites of your own products? My all time favorite is Toon Santa. He's charming. He's famous. Plus he gets a new outfit every year. He's a lot of fun.My second favorite is Granny's Trailer from Mobile Park Volume 1. It's full of pink granny goodness.My third favorite is a toss up, but I think from our original My third favorite is a toss up, but I think from our original Elven Village the Elven Village Inn is beautiful.

Which are your 3 personal favorite Vendors?Oh, that's hard! Les Gardner of Sixus 1 Media produces Oh, that's hard! Les Gardner of Sixus 1 Media produces some amazing, creepy characters. Chris Creek is another favorite, for obvious reasons that he's continued to support the platform with Dawn. Colm and Syyd continue to amaze with IDL Studio 2 - sorry that's just for Poser, but it's awesome.

Camilla DrakenborgRuby Tears

N.Y. Police 3535

Somebody Forgot Something

Somebody Forgot SomethingKat TheriaultUSA

N.Y. Police 3535Mario HeyerGermany

Photo ShootPhoto ShootAnnie Altherr a.k.a Sister of DarknessUK

Meddling Kids

Meddling KidsBowskiUK

CenturionMarcius HessBrazil

Employee of the MonthEmployee of the MonthLeandro HannaArgentina

Gallery

Centurion

Flapper

Allure

AllureJodie GriffithsWales

FlapperElle A WalbyUSA

MalechaiMalechaiVicki LeversedgeCanada

Malechai

Serpent Dancer

Serpent DancerPenelope ChaputUSA

FrenzyAlex LedanteUSA

Maja's PortraitMaja's PortraitRod E. KokCanada

Frenzy

Instant de magie

Instant de magieLaMuserie

Tea TimeMary VanAsscheUSA

Gallery

An urban fantasy

Who is in the team of Aeon Soul? Aeon Soul is first and foremost a couple. We're geeks, love everything creative in every form and art at large. We believe in the "mens sana in corpore sano" motto and don't have enough hours in the day.We like sport, drawing, writing, making music, cooking, doing crafts…!

How did you get into 3d modeling & how long have you been doing it?The interest in digital art dates way back, to the Amiga computer/console days, but at The interest in digital art dates way back, to the Amiga computer/console days, but at that time it was mostly 2D pixel graphics and design for games.3D was already alive in those days (albeit being a slooooow thing), however we started doing this seriously around 2000. The reason being we discovered Poser and wanted to use it for our own comic (we had also used Bryce, but just for fun). We weren't satisfied with the content available though, nothing that would fit our characters, and we started modelling and texturing our own.

Where do you get your inspiration from?Where do you get your inspiration from?Today we are surrounded by creativity, which is awesome, so being inspired is quite easy. Mostly we feel inspired by games, since it is our main hobby: the overall style of the world Mostly we feel inspired by games, since it is our main hobby: the overall style of the world and characters or something particular that we use as spark for our imagination. We have a list of "styles" we use when we need some inspiration for either products or texture styles. The list is divided up into "sci-fi/futuristic, fantasy and contemporary". Another great source of inspiration is miniature games and their art, comics, and great artists in general. We have many artbooks at home, of the most different kind; we do enjoy browsing We have many artbooks at home, of the most different kind; we do enjoy browsing through them to be inspired, although lately we also go to Pinterest for reference: such a big amass of wonderful art!We are also inspired by our own worlds, characters that live in our own stories and that we simply design on our own. Ideas sometimes just need to be squeezed out of your neurons, it doesn't always work, but it often does. Creativity does need to be trained and kept fit to work efficiently!

Aeon Soul

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT

We often feel that we haven’t shown enough of what we’re offering: whether in the texture detail or the included morphs. We put a lot of things into our products, and it’s not always easy to show every feature!

What one piece of advice would you give to someone starting out creating for Daz Studio?To be patient and do not pretend to become great To be patient and do not pretend to become great at it in a couple of weeks. Every artist/creator/-crafter needs time to become good, and even more time to become really good. Be focused, be commit-ted and the results will come.And DO learn/use ZBrush.

Which 3 are your personal favorites of your own products? Well, every product has a story and depending on when this question is posed we’d probably answer in a different way. At this moment, just looking at the range of products currently available…Entwined: we really like its uniqueness and versatil-Entwined: we really like its uniqueness and versatil-ity. It’s one of those design that we feel is distinc-tively AS.Fantasy Ornaments: we like that they are intricate and elegant, yet bold. They stand out even from a distance without looking exaggerated.Soulforged: the Outlander, previously named “Hear Soulforged: the Outlander, previously named “Hear No Evil” will always be a favourite. It’s gritty, survivor look is meant as the attire of and other-worldly presence come to fix a few things in a post-apocalyptic kind of work

Which program(s) do you create your models in?We use Maya and ZBrush. Maya used to be our main tool, but nowadays many projects actually start in ZBrush with Maya used for refining or particular tasks it is better/faster at. Tools and techniques have evolved and ZBrush is becoming ever more central for us. It's role is also central in creating textures, where we couple it with Photoshop.

Typically how long does it take from initial idea to finished model?That's hard to say, as each project is unique. Also, sometimes we just put things aside and That's hard to say, as each project is unique. Also, sometimes we just put things aside and resume them after months (or even years). We usually develop more than one at the same time, keeping track is really hard. We tried noting down work hours, but in the end it didn't work. A big project can take up to a whole month. Smaller ones, maybe a couple of weeks. We mostly create clothes and that’s a very time-consuming kind of product!

What is the biggest challenge for you when creating a new product?The biggest challenge is never in the creative process, but in coping with the boring parts: The biggest challenge is never in the creative process, but in coping with the boring parts: creating UV Maps, testing, making morphs. Your hands and mind hitch to create something new, to bring a new idea or design to life, but you have to finalize and take care of all those non-creative aspects to make things usable and sellable... sometimes it can be hard to do, to just put the creative process apart.But all creative works also include menial work that needs to be done if one wants to But all creative works also include menial work that needs to be done if one wants to accomplish something. We do try to make it an ever smaller part of our process, by always experimenting and finding creative ways for the boring work as well.Another challenge is showing all the potential of our products.

http://www.daz3d.com/aeon-soulhttp://www.runtimedna.com/Aeon-Soul/ &

Do you have any plans to update some of your classic items for genesis 2?We really don't, updating is time-consuming and risky as older stuff was modeled with different techniques and not everything fits well with Genesis needs/requirements. Also, revamping oldies, basically means giving up all the fun involved in creating something new and only doing the boring part. It isn't just economically unsounds, it's also creatively dry!If we really wanted to update something, we’d probably just do it anew, unless it’s something that can be updated/con-If we really wanted to update something, we’d probably just do it anew, unless it’s something that can be updated/con-verted really easily, but we’re not really taking chances.

Can you give us a hint of what is to come?We have to confess our plans change frequently. That’s because we may be inspired by something and we start a new project that is given precedence over anything else, because we resume some older project or just because we get carried away with what we’re doing.That said we have a nice project that’s code-named “Avenging Angel” and that features some new techniques we’ve That said we have a nice project that’s code-named “Avenging Angel” and that features some new techniques we’ve been experimenting with and also kind of items we haven’t done before.Our very next project though will be a complete sci-fi suit that completely covers Genesis, only leaving her face free of anything.

Also there are some amazing Poser/DAZ Studio artists our there and we love when people use our stuff creatively, in ways we hadn't thought about.

Which are your 3 personal favorite Vendors?Well, when it comes to characters we mostly do everything our-Well, when it comes to characters we mostly do everything our-selves: clothes, skin, hair, poses and since we have total control over everything, we rarely use someone else's work (although there is some great content our there, but we can hardly find time to enjoy our own!). We do really need sceneries and back-grounds for our images and promo material, so our favourite are scenery and props creators: Stonemason and Jack Tomalin are the two we follow most closely and we have most of their are the two we follow most closely and we have most of their stuff. Also because we don’t do much male stuff (shame on us) we do use other creators’ male items to compliment our female ones, mostly we look at Luthbel and Xurge works for when we need to fill our images with male characters.

If you could add one new feature to DAZ studio, what would it be?A better and fast(er) rendering engine. While we're happy and A better and fast(er) rendering engine. While we're happy and content using the Octane engine, not everyone can afford it and DAZ Studio users could really use something better in the ren-dering department. The material room could also use some work, if not in what it can achieve, at least in its accessibility. Perhaps that could also be covered by better documentation. Perhaps that could also be covered by better documentation. DAZ Studio as a tool has really got many great and unique features: but not all are well documented!

How does it make you feel when you see peoples artwork made with your products?We really love it. What we enjoy of creating content for Poser We really love it. What we enjoy of creating content for Poser is the fact that we can give people tools to express their own imagination and inner worlds. This is fantastic and seeing it in action is obviously awesome!

Marcius HessSci-Fi doll

Here’s an example of Glitch, rendered using his normal base material set but with the Toon Metal shader applied to the entire object. As you can see, you get that classic cartoon look straight out of DAZ Studio, no postwork done. Of course, a little judicious Photoshoppery can give you a better colour depth and highlight the changes in materials.

A second option that is available is the use of shaders on the objects within the scene. These shaders can mimic the cartoon or comic book style at the time of rendering within the 3Delight engine. The current version of Daz Studio ships with a set of DS Default shaders that gives you both normal and Toon versions of the 6 shaders normal and Toon versions of the 6 shaders (Glossy, Glossy Metal, Matte, Metal, Plastic and Skin). Applying the Toon version of these shaders to your figures or objects will render them in that style without losing the textures/colours that you may have already applied.

A single action run over the completed render in Photoshop. This action “smooths and flattens” the image, reducing the texture levels and giving it a stylized cartoon look.

Back when I first started using DAZ Studio, there was only 3Delight to render in. Over the years we’ve seen other render engines appear and plugins to allow DAZ Studio to interface with them, Reality for Lux Render for instance. With each new release we see amazing images created, things that are so lifelike that it’s hard to tell if it’s a photograph or not. But what if you want something else, something not. But what if you want something else, something that isn’t “lifelike” in it’s render style? Well, there are a couple of options.

Firstly, you can run any number of filters or actions Firstly, you can run any number of filters or actions over the completed render in Photoshop (or your preferred post work software). This can give you a variety of different effects, and along with it, a variety of different results. This method can be very hit and miss, as you try different filters, adjust opacity settings, move layers around, trying to get the result you are after. It can certainly be worth the the result you are after. It can certainly be worth the effort, but it can also lead you to pulling your hair out as you go.

Cartoon Engine Default Engine

The completed render still needs some work, but it’s more interesting than the result of the normal render setting as you can see with this comparison.

What you do with it from there is up to you. What you do with it from there is up to you. For me, I’ve taken the original render, duplicated it a number of times and used the following blending settings in Photoshop.Base Image: Colour blend at 100% opacityDuplicate 1: Hard Light blend at 100% opacityDuplicate 2: Darker Colour blend at 25% Duplicate 2: Darker Colour blend at 25% opacityDuplicate 3: Exclusion blend at 10% opacityDrop in a background and we have the finished piece, a revisit to an original I did some years ago, but now with a better depth of colour.

There is one caveat with all of this of course. There is one caveat with all of this of course. The result you achieve with any of these methods is directly impacted not only by the materials of the objects being used in your scene, but also by the lighting you use. Lighting can be critical when using the Cartoon Engine so be prepared to swap out one light set for another until you find the one that gives you best another until you find the one that gives you best the result for the scene.

But what about those times when you have a scene setup, everything is how you like but it’s just not “working” when you render it out? Perhaps it’s time to look at one of the least used tools in the DAZ Studio library. The Cartoon Render setting in the render engine. Changing to the cartoon setting is very simple. Open the Render setting is very simple. Open the Render Settings tab and at the top of the settings you will see the heading “Render Style”, under that will be a drop down box, most likely set to Default. Click this and change it to Cartoon. That’s it. Now render your image and DAZ Studio will use cartoon settings within the render engine itself. settings within the render engine itself. Simples!

And when I say judicious, I really mean it. Going overboard with filters and actions is a surefire way to create yourself problems and heart-ache. The old adage, less is more, is very relevant here I feel, so keeping with that, I’ve duplicated the original layer a couple of times, changed the blending mode to darken the colour on the top layer and used Hard Light colour on the top layer and used Hard Light blending on others to get that colour change around the plane changes on the figure.

Snowflake pattern courtesy of PhilDSC & Poznati. www.colourlovers.com

Prize Donors

BWCBobbie25PandyGirlFWArtSedorLunchladyLunchladyJack TomalinTotte AlmYURdigitalOzichickHinkypunkAelarethElennarGeorge Killibarda creator of George Killibarda creator of Image ArmadaChikako Hatanaka

The Team

Camilla DrakenborgPhil ThompsonMatt AllgoodTotte AlmSanyel JacksonBobbie Brundon JeffreyBobbie Brundon JeffreySamir Rouabhi DeleuzeGavin Wynford Jones

CONTRIBUTORS

M erry Christmas from DS Creative

Tutorial Contributors

Design AnvilMatt AllgoodPhil Thompson

Image contributors

Alex LedanteAnnie AltherrAstroGalBellatryx NoirBowskiChandra KusumaChandra KusumaChristopher HaigoodClaudia W (Kenda)Debbie GoreckeE.Bru-BremenEdwing MunozElle WalbyErik WinboErik WinboFantail 451Henry PolisJean MorneauJeff ThomasJodie GriffithsKat TheriaultKevin StamperKevin Stamper

Image contributors

LaMuserieLaura HancockLiz SchroederLucinda AtmanMarcius HessMario HeyerMario HeyerMarkus BaMary KarismaMary VanAsscheMavrosh StratiotisPenelope ChaputSandra BauserSanyel JacksonSanyel JacksonScott LivingstonSeliah KellerTerry McGarryTheresa HerlockerTotte AlmVicki LeversedgeWilliam FarrarWilliam Farrar

Free Gift Contributors

Bobbie25FWArtJack TomalinMavrosh Stratiotis

Issue 7 January 2nd 2015

FROM ALL THE TEAM AT DS CREATIVEWE HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A VERYMERRY CHRISTMAS

AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU ALL IN 2015HAPPY NEW YEAR

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