Building a series of 3D critters
is a time consuming process.
A brilliant software package
called 3D Studio Max is widely used for such
3D design. 3D Studio Max is used for
commercial special effects, but can also be
used for simple 3D objects.
The design process..
Using the same "bent" cylinder
for the body, each creature has
it's own special appendages. If
you look closely, you'll see
they're just simple geometric
shapes. Then, metal textures
are applied to the shapes
(using "bump" and "diffuse"
maps) giving as lovely worn effect.
Lastly, the critters are touched-
up in Photoshop. And suddenly they're alive,
adding character to all kinds of DDSN
presentations...