I Tried a 3D Workflow

Author

Foudo
November 16, 2024

November 17, 2024

I decided to learn some 3D.

I build backgrounds in Blender, create characters in VRoid Studio, and design clothing in Marvelous Designer.

I'm surprised that just learning the basics of these software is enough.

Previously, my goal in drawing was to improve my technique, and to be honest, it was quite painful. However, when I shifted my purpose to expressing what I want to express, I rediscovered my passion for drawing. My perspective skills are weak, and I struggle to make light and shadow look realistic. Using 3D can immediately fill this gap.

My goal is to use 3D to support 2D, but in practice, I wanted to complete everything in Blender. Later, I added some brush strokes in Clip Studio Paint to make the image look more hand-drawn, but it felt awkward. I realized I need to optimize this workflow.

Content

The story I want to depict is about an elf waiting for someone and the moment they finally meet.

They are flower elf, so the setting is in a garden-like environment.

The concept started with the main character.

I built a curved staircase, with the main character sitting on it, while the person she’s waiting for is obscured.

Then, I added some windows and plants to form the composition.

It was my first time using 3D to build an entire scene, so I wanted to add a lot of elements. However, the result didn’t look good.

 I build the dress in Marvelous Designer.

After several revisions, I reduced the number of elements.

The scene felt like it was missing something. Usually, it’s not about the lack of elements but the lack of contrast.

Once I realized this, I became frustrated with the piece and wanted to minimize the elements as much as possible.

This resulted in a very simplistic image.

Okay, I added some contrast. Adding lines to the background improved the scene a bit.

Then, I included an audience section and a camera, which added more meaning and made the scene much better.

I returned to the original piece and decided to complete it. This is the final result in Blender.

 There’s only one visible face, which is lit—the elf as the protagonist. There’s a flow leading to the second character.

 Then, I slightly enhanced this flow on the Clip Stuido Paint touch.

I really dislike the shading in this illustration. Because I tried to rely too heavily on 3D, it became counterproductive. I’ll try to resolve this issue in my next illustration. The idea and composition should take priority—don’t add too many elements just because 3D makes it easier.

-Foudo