The ‘Cars’ Animation Progression Gallery

Similar to how we brought you a “making-of” look at Disney and Pixar’s Incredibles (see here) we bring you a similar look at the making of the latest animated pic from the two studios, Cars.

Take a look at the pics and the explanations below. Each pic can be clicked on for much larger versions found in our Cars gallery.

Enjoy!

STORYBOARD

A loose, hand-drawn image showing the cars in their pose, with clues regarding where the image is to be set and how it should be composed. This Storyboard was drawn by Steve Purcell.
LINE-DRAWING (wireframe) FOR LAYOUT

Very simple imaging composed of lines drawn along the surfaces of each model. No shading, shadows, or lighting.
ANIMATION RENDER

This image shows the characters posed in the actual set, with key colors for the characters and set pieces, and the models rendered (drawn) as solid objects. Lighting is minimal, with a simple key light coming from near the camera, and no shadows.
OCCLUSION

Shows the effect of just occlusion (diffuse light reaching unobstructed geometry) on the characters, sets, and props. Note how it helps give a good sense of how the characters contact the ground.
RAY-TRACED OCCLUSION AND REFLECTION

This shows the characters in their final pose with mostly monochromatic shading, and lighting effects from ray-tracing. The key elements of this lighting setup include occlusion (the effect of diffuse light reaching unobstructed parts of the models) and reflection of the set and other characters on each car.
FINAL LIGHTING AND RENDERING

Shows the effect of the various light-sources and effects atop the completed shading on all the objects. The light direction is appropriate to the time of day, and is integrated with the effects of shadow, occlusion, and reflection. Also note the amount of detail that is contributed by the shading of the characters, buildings, and landscape.

Cars hits theaters on June 9, click here for more.

Movie News

Marvel and DC

X