Vanity Mirror Asset
Created for a 3D modeling and animation class, the vanity mirror was created using 3DS Max and Photoshop.
The original project required realistic textures which was a bit of a challenge given its chrome finish. By applying a reflection map and exporting it as a texture, I was able to creature textures that gave the illusion of a realistic chrome finish.
In polishing this piece, I decided to re-add the reflection map on top of the existing realistic texture. This allowed for dynamic reflections on the mirror during the animation sequence.
As a static environment piece, the diffuse and specular maps would suffice, but as a centerpiece as part of a CG sequence or interactive item that may be viewed closely, the reflection map may be used.
The animation showcasing the wireframe, textures, and simple animation with overlays was created using After Effects to merge the render sequences from 3DS Max.
Reflection
The biggest challenge in refining this piece was identifying areas that could be improved and implementing those changes without reworking the mesh itself as that would have likely created complications with the existing UV maps.
In lieu of reworking the texture, as it already fit its original parameters as a realistic texture of the correct resolution, the addition of a reflection map drastically improved the overall visual.
Similarly, there is only so much smoothing that may be accomplished through normal maps. Applying a smoothing modifier sufficiently reduced the few sharper spots in the mirror's base without compromising previous work or increasing poly count.
Finally, the original gray backdrop was changed to a color that contrasted the pale teal scene light to better showcase the asset.
