Some new updates on my YMCA scene

So far I have spent a lot of my time rigging this Y character and trying to help resolve problems that people have identified with the animation of the model (more on that later).

Today I want to report on how my scene is coming along. SLOWLY! But do not fear, for I intend to spend some serious hours modelling over the coming days then the problems will lie in character animation and animating the lights.

So far I have modelled the light rig, the DJ stand, the dance floor and part of one deck.

The lighting rig was modelled using a series of simple lines all attached to one another once in the correct place. I made one cross then used the array tool several times to create lots more in the relevant directions. I then applied a grey material with a high specular to simulate shiny metal. I figured rather that as it is not an integral part of the animation this would be a better option than adding raytrace material to it for correct shiny metal as it would speed up the rendering time.

I have created a nice shiny dance floor with proper reflection and everything. The dance floor is where most of my animation will take place so for that reason it was important to me that it be as realistic as possible. When the lights are up you can see the reflections in it, some noise bump (to simulate it being slightly worn but well used) and a high specular to give it a nice polished look.

I have begun creation of the decks that the DJ will be using. They are in their early stages but as you can see they are coming along nicely. I have already created a lot of materials for these but I only plan to show them for a few seconds in total, I think I may have gone a bit overboard on them (as usual, it really is a curse). The main element of interest behind the DJ booth will be the use of volume light to show what is going on.

My original deadline that I imposed on myself to have the room modelled by was the 14^th November. I am going to miss that deadline due to the complications with the character and I now hope that I can have most of my scene animated by next Wednesday the 19^th. I’m fairly confident that this is a reasonable deadline and will do everything within my power to reach that goal.