Fresh & Rotten

The Art of Decay in Still Life

To create a convincing transformation of a fresh still life scene to an aged, moldy display, I first studied reference images of decaying fruits and other deteriorated still life compositions. This allowed me to identify key features and elements that contribute to the visual representation of decay and mold.

Using Substance Painter and Photoshop, I created custom textures and materials that mimic mold, rust, and dust. I then applied these textures to the 3D fruit models in Maya, ensuring that the placement and intensity of the various effects appeared natural and realistic.

The lighting and atmosphere in the scene were adjusted to further enhance the sense of decay and age. By altering the light sources and adding subtle shadows, I aimed to create a moody and somber environment that contrasted with the vibrant, fresh still life scene.

To complete the transformation, I added fine details such as water droplets, mold spores, and damaged areas on the fruits. These small touches brought the aged still life composition to life, showcasing the impact of time on once-fresh fruits.

This project not only highlights my skills in 3D VFX and digital composition but also demonstrates the power of visual storytelling through the lens of decay and transformation. Follow me to explore more fascinating projects and to gain insights into the world of VFX and digital composition.