How technology and style effect face rigging
Smith, Lukas (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052214625
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052214625
Tiivistelmä
This thesis explored and discussed the rigging techniques and artistic stylization in the context of face tracking for digital character models. The study focused on niche creative communities such as VRChat and VTubing as a foundation, where face tracking is actively explored and developed through shared knowledge and freelance-led experimentation. The research revolved around the question: “how technology and art style influence rigging for face tracking?”
Qualitative research methodology was used for this study. To ensure that the paper was accessible to new readers, context was introduced regarding the communities mentioned and what they cared about regarding creating 3d models. In addition to standard research, interviews were conducted with industry relevant creators, and a project dedicated to teaching the basics of a 2d UV blendshape face rig in unity.
The work highlights how accessibility, hardware limitations, and different modeling practices impact rigging decisions. Stylization introduces unique challenges related to topology, blendshape usage, and aesthetic consistency. A common outcome was that planning is the most important step when creating a model among other minor recommendations like addons, shaders, or tools.
The results of the study were that both technology and style do affect the face rigging process. It will solely depend on what impact the creator wishes to make for their model. From the research it is recommended that a creator plan thoroughly for the style of their model, study the musculature of the face to craft accurate facial blendshapes, and go through documentation for the desired tracking software when rigging a model for tracking to understand what is required to function.
This study not only serves as an accessible entry point into the world of face tracking and rigging but also identifies opportunities for future research, such as broader community surveys and technical user insights, to further understand and enhance this evolving niche.
Qualitative research methodology was used for this study. To ensure that the paper was accessible to new readers, context was introduced regarding the communities mentioned and what they cared about regarding creating 3d models. In addition to standard research, interviews were conducted with industry relevant creators, and a project dedicated to teaching the basics of a 2d UV blendshape face rig in unity.
The work highlights how accessibility, hardware limitations, and different modeling practices impact rigging decisions. Stylization introduces unique challenges related to topology, blendshape usage, and aesthetic consistency. A common outcome was that planning is the most important step when creating a model among other minor recommendations like addons, shaders, or tools.
The results of the study were that both technology and style do affect the face rigging process. It will solely depend on what impact the creator wishes to make for their model. From the research it is recommended that a creator plan thoroughly for the style of their model, study the musculature of the face to craft accurate facial blendshapes, and go through documentation for the desired tracking software when rigging a model for tracking to understand what is required to function.
This study not only serves as an accessible entry point into the world of face tracking and rigging but also identifies opportunities for future research, such as broader community surveys and technical user insights, to further understand and enhance this evolving niche.