Character Design Evolution

From concept sketches to immersive 3D models

View My Process

Design Process

Concept & Sketching

Initial character concepts and rough sketches exploring different designs and silhouettes

2D Illustration

Refined 2D artwork with color, shading, and detailed character design elements

3D Modeling

Transforming 2D designs into interactive 3D models with textures and rigging

Sketch Phase

The sketch phase is where characters begin to take shape. These initial drawings explore personality, proportions, and design elements that will define each character. This crucial foundation stage allows for rapid iteration and creative exploration before moving to more detailed work.

Maid Character Concept

Character 1 is a maid-inspired design with a blend of classic and modern elements. The sketch explores her expressive personality, showing her diligent yet somewhat reluctant attitude toward her work. The design incorporates a traditional maid uniform with personal touches that reflect her character.

Character 1 sketch

Character Concept

Initial character design showing personality and work attitude

Forest Spirit Concept

Character 2 explores the concept of a mystical forest spirit with distinctive antlers and flowing purple hair. The sketch establishes the character's gentle demeanor and connection to nature, with notes about its magical abilities and role as a forest guardian. This design blends fantasy elements with traditional Asian-inspired clothing.

Character 2 sketch

Character Concept

Initial forest spirit design with antlers and flowing hair concept

2D Illustration Phase

The 2D illustration phase brings our characters to life with color, detail, and refined designs. These polished illustrations serve as the blueprint for the 3D modeling process, establishing the color palette, textures, and final proportions that will define each character.

Classic Maid Design

The refined 2D illustration of Character 1 showcases a traditional black and white maid uniform with burgundy accents. The design features a frilled apron, knee-length dress, and practical details that reflect her role. Her pink hair adds a modern touch to the classic design, creating a balanced visual appeal.

Character 1 front view

Front View

Complete maid uniform design with detailed frills and apron

Character 1 side view

Side View

Profile showing dress silhouette and hair styling details

Mystical Forest Spirit Design

Character 2 features a whimsical forest spirit with distinctive purple hair and elegant antlers adorned with flowers. The design incorporates natural elements with a traditional-inspired kimono in soft lavender tones. The character's long, flowing hair and tail create a magical silhouette that emphasizes its otherworldly nature.

Character 2 front view

Front View

Mystical forest spirit with antlers, flowers, and lavender kimono

Character 2 side view

Back View

Showcasing the flowing purple hair, tail, and decorative kimono details

3D Model Showcase

The final phase transforms our 2D designs into fully realized 3D characters. These models are rigged for animation and optimized for use in games or animated productions. Each character maintains the essence of their original design while gaining the depth and functionality needed for interactive media.

Maid Character - 3D Model

The 3D realization of our maid character brings all design elements into a fully animated model. Special attention was given to cloth physics for the apron and dress, as well as facial rigging to capture her expressive personality. The model is optimized for real-time rendering while preserving all the intricate details of the uniform.

Character 1

This character was designed with a focus on dynamic movement and expressive features. The 3D model includes detailed texturing and a full rigging system for animation. The cloth simulation allows for realistic movement of the maid uniform during action sequences.

Polygons 15,000
Textures 4K
Rigged Yes

Forest Spirit - 3D Model

The 3D model of our forest spirit character brings its mystical qualities to life with detailed antlers, flowing hair, and a delicately textured kimono. Special attention was given to the hair and tail physics, allowing for natural movement that enhances the character's magical essence. The model includes subtle glow effects for the flowers to emphasize its supernatural nature.

Character 2

This mystical forest spirit explores fantasy design elements with unique features like antlers, flowing hair, and a tail. The 3D model includes advanced hair simulation and subtle particle effects for the floral elements. The character's kimono features intricate embroidery patterns that tell stories of the forest world it inhabits.

Polygons 18,500
Textures 4K
Rigged Yes

About the Project

Emilly Cho

This portfolio showcases my character design process from initial concept to final 3D model. Each character represents a unique design challenge and demonstrates the complete workflow of modern character creation.

Project Background

This project was initiated to demonstrate the process of creating high-quality 3D characters for the gaming and animation industry. In the modern entertainment industry, character design has become more than just a visual element; it's a core component of storytelling and user experience.

Creation Process

Starting from initial sketches, I progressed through digital illustration, 3D modeling, texturing, and rigging. Each stage was carefully crafted to reflect the personality and story of the character.

The techniques used include traditional sketching, digital illustration using Photoshop and Procreate, and 3D modeling with Blender and ZBrush. The final models are optimized for real-time rendering and animation.

Concept Design Digital Art 3D Modeling Texturing Rigging Animation

Contact

emily.hi.cho@gmail.com ArtStation

Concept Development

Initial stage of developing the character's basic idea and story

Sketching & Design

Creating initial sketches and designs of the character from various angles

3D Modeling

Building the 3D model based on the sketches

Texturing

Adding color and texture to the model

Rigging & Animation

Final stage of adding a skeleton and bringing the character to life