This workshop introduced a software unfamiliar to me before now; Maxon Cineam4D. This application exists as a cross-section between 2 and 3 dimensional software, entailing for renders of a more modern dynamic. Influenced by exploration into depth of field, perception is altered through the implementation of an ‘active camera’, and general utilisation of z-space.

Cinema4D can be a useful tool for a diverse range of media outputs, from motion- posters, to packaging, from special effects to 3D animation and even VR modern technology.

A brief introduction into the potentials offered by Cinema4D, this workshop consisted of numerous smaller experiments, developing skillsets and creative abilities amongst various processes.

Part 1: Cosmetic Packaging

The first section of this workshop resolved the purpose of gaining familiarity with perspective and navigation, presenting a real example of how the software could be used. The screenshots above show the real working document, and how the software can visualise a product in a 3 dimensional space. This allows for a vision of how the object would look in a real-life situation, before its actually made/printed. The set-up in the 3rd screenshot shows how the space can be altered based on intent, and in this case, has been lit to echo a reflection of our visual reality.

Part 2: A Bottle

Similar to the previous packaging outcome, this Cinema4D document utilises shape with light with a given image, collaborated to form a visual of a consumer product. Working this way, with computer generated dimensions and space, entails for exceptionally strong clarity and depth, showing clear shape, contour and sharpness in a high output quality. The third image above showcases the final render output.

Part 3: A Room

This experiment provided insight into how specific cameras can be placed and used within a Cinema4D document, designed to capture a specific viewpoint of this scene. Potentially a very useful asset, this feature means for specific angles and still images to be recorded, condensed down from an otherwise complex, 3D product. Multiple cameras can be set up, showing various perspectives, useful to develop sustained accuracy amongst correlated still-image outputs.

Part 4: Cloner

Viewing this experiment provided insight of how certain effects placed on an object an be replicated to reform specific accuracy throughout an outcome. The rendered screenshot clips above show two separate intervals of the motion-based outcome, presenting the idea of a cast shadow. This aspect has been achieved through cloned attributes applied to the object, as well as the addition of a ‘light’. This light does not deliberately cast the shadow as this has to be applied to the object, however, it does light the scene, bringing certain elements into vision as intended. The combined effect of these two principles illustrate a ‘realistic’ light/shadow, bringing a sense of reality into the outcome.

Part 5: Effectors

This example demonstrated the use of a moving camera through a space with alternating perspective, with the application of special effects upon objects. On the balloons, reflections have been applied which change with movement, indicating a realistic sense of transition through/ around a real installation, heightening a sense of reality.

Screenshots above show clippings taken from another two examples of the use of effectors in Cinema4D, presenting how these can be used to create advanced shapes, movements and progressions throughout the visual product.

Part 6: Lighting

This next investigation entailed for experimenting with the ‘sun’ object and the different potentials this has aesthetically. Cinema4D has settings for the ‘sun’, allowing for lighting to be adjusted accurately with correct seasons and times. Input of a certain time and date changed the suns location, colour, and intensity to suit expectations in reality. This would be particularly useful if creating an element of VR, or an aspect of virtual gameplay.

Personal Practice:

Cinema 4D Initial Experiment from Katie Hughes on Vimeo.

The above video documents my experimentation with cloning, movement, and lighting, with the incorporation of a 3 dimensional object. I applied knowledge learnt from previously studied examples as part of this workshop, considering how certain effects, such as shadows, should be applied to ensure for the correct interaction of aspects.

Images above show experimentation conducted prior to creation of my motion based outcome, exploring the interaction between objects and the effect of light/ shadow.