AVATAR IN AI

1. In as much detail as possible record the steps it took to create this project in Adobe illustrator. Use complete sentences.​ Try to recall as many of the different tools, shapes, and keyboard commands as possible. 

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I started off this project by finding a picture of myself where my feature were clear and visible to make the process easier. Then, I had opened a blank document on adobe illustrator and uploaded the selfie I picked out. After that, I started by using the ellipse shape tool to make my face. I used a bold red outline so I was able to see and using the "Direct Selection" for movement I clicked and dragged the ellipse to form a close resemblance to my face shape. I soon started on my eyes, nose, and lips. I used the "Command +" keys to zoom in and used the ellipse tool once again to form my eye shape and filled it with a semi off-white gradient. I made my irises by starting with a circle and using the "Eyedropper" tool to find my eye color. I then used the star shape to create details. I used the "Pinch and bloat" effect to create a starry details. I copy and pasted multiple of those, making each one a shade lighter and darker, and stacked them on top of one another to give a realistic look. Making the eyelids was a difficult process, I used the curve tool and "Command +" keys to zoom in and trace the top and bottom portion of my eye. I went back and forward with the sclera and iris to made sue they lined up before grouping together. As soon as I get it how I wanted it to be I started to give everything color and mainly worked on the "Skintones" on the gradients color key for the most natural and similar look.

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2. What was the most challenging part of creating your Avatar?

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The most challenging part I faced creating my avatar was getting all my facial details proportioned how I needed them. I struggled mainly on the eye area trying to get the eye lids, irises, and rings as detailed and shaped. After watching many videos on YouTube, I soon got the hang of it and eventually managed to complete it and create a more realistic character. 

3. What ways did you move the arms and legs to create movement? Did your Avatar move like you wanted it to?

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For my avatar, I created movement by using the forearm and wrist area to do a wave. As for the leg, I attempted to do slight jump off the right foot to give it a bounce. My avatar did move how I wanted it to, though it could've been a bit smoother by adding a couple extra dartboards I was satisfied when the end product. 

4. Are there any improvements you would make next time? Why or why not?

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When making a similar project I would want to better improve on my animation process. For example, adding more art boards than what I did for a cleaner and smoother transition. Another improvement I believe is working more with gradients and color for a more realistic look.