Colorization Techniques for 3D Assets in Picture Pawfect Dressup

Situation

I was tasked with developing art for the Picture Pawfect Dressup app, but there was a significant challenge: we didn't have a method to programmatically handle the colorization of assets while maintaining their 3D look. At the time, I was taking a class from Rafael Grassetti, a renowned 3D sculptor, which provided inspiration for a potential solution.

Task

Working as Art Director, artist and animator on the project, my goal was to create a proprietary process that would allow for the programmatic colorization of assets, preserving their 3D look. Additionally, I needed to maintain the look of the IP, deliver all of the art assets, and help with integration.

Rafael Grassetti's work is stunning. I have included his techniques in training my art teams on the specifics of the ambient occlusion pass.

Action

Leveraging the techniques I learned from Rafael Grassetti's class, particularly his method of exporting lighting, base models, and ambient occlusion passes as separate layers, I applied these principles to develop a process that could programmatically handle the colorization of 3D assets. My actions included:

• Building a system of layers for colorization.
• Ensuring the method maintained the visual integrity and 3D appearance of the assets.
• Maintaining the look of the IP and delivering all art assets.
• Assisting with integration and providing Art Direction throughout the project.

Result

The proprietary process I developed successfully allowed for the programmatic colorization of assets while maintaining their 3D look. This not only enhanced the visual appeal of the Picture Pawfect Dressup app but also provided a scalable solution that could be used in future projects for the Noggin app. The process became a cornerstone technique for similar projects, streamlining the colorization workflow and improving the overall quality of the assets.