CINEMA 4D in action at the Sydney Morning Herald

John Shakespeare - cartoonist and illustrator for The Sydney Morning Herald

John Shakespeare works as a cartoonist and illustrator for The Sydney Morning Herald, one of Australia's biggest-selling newspapers. His work mainly consists of 2D illustrations. However, every two weeks he produces full-page 3D cover artwork for the Herald's various sections, using MAXON Computer's CINEMA 4D software.

The process starts with a meeting to discuss concepts with the editor and designer, then a hand drawn rough sketch is provided. Once approved, the 3D modeling begins. A basic 3D setup is then rendered and given to the designer for sizing on the page. The final version is then completed.

John primarily uses HDRI lighting, both for its realism and glossy reflections, and the speed with which it can be setup. With a usual lead time of 5 working days, every minute counts! He keeps a standard HDRI file at the ready, so lighting setup takes just minutes.

Formally from a clay sculpting background, John made the transition to CG nearly 3 years ago. "I was forever running around trying to find miniature props for my clay figures, and also grew tired of waking at 6 a.m. to sand and paint the sculptures for a deadline.
I find working with CINEMA 4D is extremely fast - much quicker than I could ever sculpt, and It's expanded my creative options. The editors love the 3D work, and it also gives them more options in what is possible to create for a cover image", said John Shakespeare.



Links
http://johnshakespeare.com.au/

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