Maya Retopology for Animation

On September 25, 2018

Release date:2018, September 20

Duration:01 h 01 m

Author:Ryan Kittleson

Skill level:Intermediate

Language:English

Exercise files:Yes

Retopology is a fun combination of artistry and technique. Characters that are sculpted in programs like ZBrush or Mudbox are usually too dense to animate correctly. Retopology takes an existing sculpted model or 3D scan and optimizes the mesh for efficient geometry and more natural animation. Instructor Ryan Kittleson shows how to import the original model, plan the refined edge flow, and create new geometry, and modify the polygon mesh. By the end of the course, you should be able to apply the same theory to prepare any character for rigging and animation.
Topics include:
Setting up the sculpted model
Drawing guidelines
Using the modeling toolkit
Adding and deleting polygons and edge loops
Retopology tips and tricks

Table of Contents

Introduction
Retopology with Maya 39s
Preparation for this course 38s
1. Preparing for Retopology
Set up the sculpted model 3m 59s
Draw guidelines 3m 39s
Establish the major flow zones 5m 43s
Deal with special cases 4m 42s
Finish the guidelines 2m 28s
2. Using the Modeling Toolkit
Place vertices and polygons 4m 22s
Extend edges 4m 28s
Make the ear 3m 15s
Add and delete polygons and edge loops 6m 13s
Increase the mesh detail 6m 22s
Relax the mesh 3m 23s
Retopology tips and tricks 4m 47s
Mirror the other half of the model 4m 31s
Conclusion
Examine the finished model 2m 9s
Next steps 26s