Digital reflection 6

We started a new photobashing task, which was to create a character wearing futuristic bug armour. There was a focus on value design initially, and I used the symmetry tool in photoshop to develop some interesting value designs for armour. I stuck closely to the human silhouette at first, but then I explored with different armour shapes, such as robes that could be worn over the top.

I decided to go forward with this design, and used it as reference whilst photobashing.  I took many references from different bugs, such as beetles and butterflies, but most of my references came from white moths as I wanted to create a mage-like character that used the regal-looking features of moths, such as the furry wings as a cloak, and the antennae as a headdress.
I wasn't completely satisfied with the first version of the moth character. I thought that too much of the photobash looked hand-painted and the eyes of the moth did not fit over the eyes of the base photo correctly. I wanted to make a mask that resembled a moth head but I needed to remake it to fit the anatomy correctly. I also wanted to adjust the value design to make certain parts stand out better, such as the fur around the head and the cloak.

I went back to edit the concept, and used stronger photos for my photobashing, such as bigger and clearer antennae. I also added layer effects such as linear dodge to make some of the lighter values stand out and to give them a neon futuristic appearance. I was a lot happier with the final design as it looked a like photobashed concept with my own edits put in to make it my own work. I think I could have added more elements of bug armour on the skirt and the shoes, but for a first character photobash I am satisfied with the result.§