Illustrator head-scratcher...

Hello!
After using the demo of ProAnimator for about 8 hours, I was totally sold.

My first project went off great, without a hitch, and my client was very pleased. (I built the animation using the demo software, the re-rendered it after purchasing it).

Now -- my second project with the full-version of the software -- it won't open my Illustrator file :(

Nothing. Nada.

I know Illustrator quite well. Is there a problem with ProAnimator and gradients? That's really the only difference between yesterday's project and today's project. The file I'm trying to open in ProAnimator is 100% vector, uncompressed, no clipping paths... what gives?

I have posted an image of the Illustrator file I am trying to import into ProAnimator: http://www.timhuggins.com/zax/CBL.jpg (of course the actual file is completely vector, created entirely in AI).

If anyone has any tips, I'd be much obliged!

thanks
tim

Hi,

I believe gradients won't work, I had to work with a logo similar to this in complexity before. And the one you got is high up there in head scratching category as far as breaking it down in layers so ProAnimator will see it properly...

For the gradient part, pick 1 color for the shape and then let the lighting system do its magic, or create a gradient texture that will you have to apply to the shape.

The ribbon of fantasy football... well I don't know how to do that... I'd be interested to know how you will solve it.

Good luck,
NguyenCat Le

Hi NguyenCat Le,

Here is how you could create the ribbon:

-Trace the ribbon using the pentool.
-Select the path then go to Object>Path>Outline Stroke.
-You should have now a closed path with fill and no stroke.
-knowing that Invigorator/ProAnimator starts mapping objects at the bottom left you would need to rotate your artwork so the mapping starts at the left or right tip of your ribbon. (See provided artwork)
http://www.nyc-visual.com/CBL_Logo.zip

Now all you need to do is open the ai file in Invigorator, alter the depth of your object to taste and chose a wide angle camera to increase the deformation of your ribbon. The right lighting would also accentuate the look.

Salut,
Serge


"InvigoMany-Winter" is now available http://www.nyc-visual.com/invigomany-winter.html
Invigorator/Proanimator Training: http://library.creativecow.net/articles/hamad_serge/invig_training.php

Merci Serge!