Shield

I'm continuing making props and this is the latest one. I also relaunched my website, I think its a big improvement from my old design. More to come soon!

Barrels of fun

I'm continuing with the 3d and I'm still working with simple shapes. Though I am getting more and more confident in 3ds Max, I plan on doing simple props until I get the process down cold (unwrapping UVs can be tricky). I've learned a lot from watching tutorials but knowing 3d artists has been the greatest asset. Whenever I have a question they're always there with an answer and advice. I really can't stress enough how valuable their help has been, so I give many thanks to you guys! (you know who you are ;P) Anyway, 'till next time!

Finished Sword

I dabbled in 3d a while back but then got distracted with some 2d work. This time around I'm taking it nice and slow and focusing on completing my projects, so naturally I am starting with something small. I'm working in 3ds Max which is a surprisingly straight forward and easy to take in once you learn the terminology. I'm not thrilled with how this turned out, but I am very satisfied with how much I learned just from making something as simple and basic as a sword. More to come!

UE Challenge '09

I have been away for some time doing some freelance work and I also visited family in Florida twice since my last post. Anyway, I decided to enter the Unearthly Challenge and these are the roughs for my three entrees. I had to make a team logo, even though I'm the only one in my team. I'll be posting my my work in progress in the days to come. Go team Echo!!

3DS Max

I decided to take a short break from doing 2D work so I can pick up some 3D skills. Luckily I know a few 3D artists so picking up 3DS Max has been easier than I expected. I'm at the point where I can easily block out shapes or an environment layout to use for a paint-over. I chose to make a Supermarine Spitfire MK. IX, blocking it out and getting the shape done hasn't been difficult, but I'm sure things will change once I start addressing the details. I also started an ammo box, which should be a quicker project than the plane. Anyway, I'll be sure to post them up once they're done. 'till next time folks!

Knight portrait

While the job hunt continues, I've been keeping busy with some personal projects. I decided to do something a little more traditional this time. I have some great photo reference of some knights so I thought it was about time I put them to good use. As usual I've included the steps of my work process.

On another note, Nihilistic/Konami's "Zombie Apocalypse" was recently announced. I'm very proud to say that this is the first official title that I've worked on. I had a great time working on the game and learned a tremendous amount. The game looks great and I cant wait to play it.

Movie poster

I've been away for a while but it's for good reason! I recently did this movie poster illustration for an indie film a friend just completed making. He wrote, produced and directed the film! So when he asked me to do an illustration for his movie, I was very excited and honored. Luckily I was working with someone who knew exactly what he wanted, which made my job much easier. We're both very pleased with the final poster and after seeing so many stills from the film shoot, I can't wait for the films viewing!

On another note, I recently took down my other blog which was serving as my portfolio. But now ahedkhatib.com is up! So be sure to drop by and have a look around! :D

a'pair'a'paintin's

Did these two paintings a while back. My focus in doing them was to get atmosphere and a rough layout down as quickly as I can. I think they're pretty successful! Anyway, till next time folks :)

rainy day

rainy days make me sleepy...

Mountains

I did this while practicing how to use Coral Painter and went back in Photoshop to do some touch ups.

Rapunzel

I wanted to do something romantic, so I turned to fairy tales. Rapunzel seemed like a good tale to illustrate because no movie studios have yet to make a big budget animated movie about it (though in doing reference research I discovered that Disney has a Rapunzel movie in the works). I referenced artists like Thomas Cole and Thomas Doughty which really helped me direct the mood and color palette. I used both Painter and Photoshop do to this.