You might have a conception that cartoon-like images are easy to create and render as compared to the three dimensional objects that are created through computer graphics. But that is not true at all. Ask any expert modeler, and he would say that creating stylized models is much more difficult! The simple looking cartoon objects call for the execution of the modeler's conception on their form, design and color. But here are some tips that will help you in creating the most life-like cartoon realism. Read on.

Make the silhouette interesting

The life of a stylized cartoon animation is in the silhouette. If it is interesting, it will attract attention and your project will be a hit! But if it looks boring then your labor will go waste after the strenuous process of modeling, rendering and distributing the final output. The best way to go about it is to put your idea on paper. Now when you will transform that cartoon into a CG image, create a simple flat shade to test how interesting it appears to you. You can put the image color as white and place it against a black background for better analysis.

Homologous mixture of hard and soft edges

While hard edges define your cartoon character, the soft edges make them look the way they are. But you have to be very careful about the balance of hardness and softness in your CG project. Tip here is that too much of hardness will hamper its cartoon-like looks, while too much of softness will impart a jazzy appeal.

Proportion of cartoon image

If you have thought that you can play with proportions when things concern cartoon images, you are wrong! Although cartoon characters can have long nose, slender legs, long legs and a massive head, the overall body structure must follow a proportion. So, while creating your cartoon character remember about its overall proportion.

Color says it all

You have the liberty of play with color, hue and saturation when you are working on a cartoon project. You can use bright colors and maximum saturation to depict happy mood. Likewise, you can desaturate parts of your frame for creating effects like flashbacks, reflection of sadness, etc. But always remember to retain a harmony throughout your frames. Render your trial project and check whether this synchronization persists or not. If your standalone computer does not support repeated rendering, you can look for options like render farm services.

Too much detailing is unnecessary

Although detailing is the heart and soul of computer generated characters, too much of it is unnecessary for cartoon characters. It will kill the characteristic softness of the image! However, you are not supposed to exempt yourself totally from applying any details to your cartoon animation though. Use your conception while fine tuning your cartoon with detailing.