Facial Pose (Connecting Poses)
This week, I worked on facial poses in Maya. The process was similar to last week, but I used a different type of reference. Last week, I used animation drawings and 2D sketches, but this week I used real human actor facial references. I also used a new rig character called Yuron. It looks like a child character, around 5 years old. The face is very cute, especially the eyes and mouth, which are larger compared to the rig I used last week. I really like this more stylized animation style rig.
I realized that using real human references is more difficult than using animation references. This is because the rig is stylized, but the reference is real human. So I need to exaggerate the facial shapes more to match the animation style and to show clear emotions. This was the most difficult part for me, but I tried my best.
After I submitted my work, my teacher gave me feedback. She said my eyebrows are moving too much, so I should keep them simpler, like only moving up or down slightly. She also advised me to think more about C-shape and S-shape lines, and to check which side of the face is open.
Overall, I learned a lot from this exercise.
Heavy Object & Change of Mind (Polished)
This week, I also polished my Heavy Object & Change of Mind animation shot. I fixed small details such as foot placement, timing, and spacing. For example, when the hand reaches the wall, I made the fingers gradually open and added a small scratching motion. I also adjusted the shoulder movement, so it moves slightly forward and backward depending on the body action.
I also focused on the Center of Gravity (COG), because it is very important in Maya animation. It helps make the movement look natural and smooth, so I paid close attention to it. My teacher also gave me advice. I should focus more on the COG in the hips, because the hips do not move too much in natural movement. If the hips do not move correctly, the animation can look unnatural. So I want to observe this more carefully next time.
Overall, my teacher said my work is good and I should keep improving. I was happy to hear this, and I want to continue polishing my animation with more passion.