Sci-Fi Character Creation with Photoshop and ZBrush

Get to know concept artist and illustrator Abrar Khan. Learn about his creative journey to becoming a professional artist and discover the influences that have shaped his style and the work he creates.

Start gathering images and create a reference board that helps you define your vision. Find the best websites for downloading high-quality photos and select your base image to work from, before defining the overall style of your artwork as well as your character’s personality.

Learn how to block out basic shapes in Photoshop using the brush tool. Then use ZBrush to understand the concept of kitbashing, and how it can be used to give characters a mechanized look. Render your image in KeyShot by matching the lighting to the environment of your base photo.

Begin post-production by using Photoshop to place and integrate the rendered assets. Then put the finishing touches to your work including layers and color correction to unify your image and give it a cinematic feel. To finish the course, Abrar shares his advice for using the skills you’ve learned to design organic characters and environments.