Light
effects
The light effects on the sharks back were created to simulate
the refractive effects of sunlight passing through water. They
were created very simply by creating a new layer above all of the
shark's layers. This new layer is set to ‘Screen'. Using the airbrush
tool and a 75% gray, I scribble the light effects on, remembering
to follow the shark's form and volume. (Using photo reference is
very helpful when rendering this sort of effect). Once the scribbles
have been laid down, a soft-edged eraser is used to fade the effect
out toward the edges of the shark's body. Adjust the layer opacity
until you get the effect you want.
Conclusion
These are the techniques I used to create shark encounter and
can be readily applied to a wide variety of subjects. The ‘color
over greyscale' method shown here is very, very useful for establishing
your values and I can recommend it as a technique. It's not the
only way to paint, but it is a good technique to add to your toolbox.
Who is Simon
Lissaman?
I was born in 1973 in Australia and live in Canberra, the capital
city of Australia, with my fiancée Murphy and our dog Buster.
I began drawing at an early age. My artistic influences/inspirations
include Ron Smith, Will Simpson, Boris Vallejo, Frank Frazetta,
Uderzo, Hergé, Rodin, Frank Cho and Michael Whelan.
My introduction to digital art came when I did a 3D animation
course at the Academy of Interactive Entertainment in Canberra.
As a result of that course, I got a job as a 3D artist in a computer
games company. Although I have done some 3D work, the bulk of my
work has been concept art and illustration.
My other interests include building models, photography and theater.
I am an experienced actor with twenty major productions to my credit
and have also designed productions, worked backstage and, for one
very memorable two week run, dressed chorus girls in a production
of Jesus Christ Superstar!
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‘Shark
Encounter’ in the CG Choice gallery
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large copy of ‘Shark Encounter’
Words and images by Simon Lissaman |
