3D Week 03 (Cannon Prop Model)

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Another week, another 3D project. This time, I’m stepping away from the beveled cubes and finally start modeling something from a concept! The object I modeled this week was a cannon, and I went from concept to high poly that’s ready for ZBrush import.

So first I started out with a concept - done by Nick Zucarello - and cropped out the orthographic views for importing as references into Maya.

Next step, after importing the orthographic images as image planes, I then imported UE4’s mannequin as an extra reference. This helped me scale the image planes to an appropriate size before I started any modeling.

After my scale was set, I started modeling the cannon - separating the cannon into smaller chunks that made it easier to model. I first started with the base of the cannon, then the body, the back wings, and lastly the top hole.

Once I was satisfied with the overall model, I merged any overlapping vertices, created and removed edges (as necessary), and combined the final model.

Here is the low poly cannon side by side UE4’s mannequin in engine!

Next was creating the high resolution model that would be used to form the high poly of the cannon. This part was probably my favorite part! I used the multi-cut tool A LOT to make some nice edge loops along the mesh so it could hold the shape nicely. I added a blinn material to make its curves stand out a bit more :P

And here we have the high poly that’s ready for ZBrush sculpting:

As extra practice for the next assignment coming up, I thought I would practice UVing the cannon, and I think I did a decent job at it! Here’s pictures of the UV layout in Maya, and the UV snapshot imported into Photoshop:

Aaaaaaaand over the next couple of weeks, I’ll be going through this modeling process again with a NEW CANNON! The first week will be nailing down the low poly and the high resolution model, and the second week will be my attempt to texture and UV. I introduce you to Big Bertha — I mean… the Bertha Cannon from Final Fantasy XIV:

See you all next week!