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.

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

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.

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.