Character development seems so easy when we think
about legends like Bugs Bunny and Mickey Mouse or even modern cartoon
characters like SpongeBob but is it as simple as it looks like? That seeming
simplicity of designing a character is actually a tricky task. The following
tips will not make that task easy but they may help
you through the process of character development.
The toughest part of developing a character is the
very beginning. Now it is time to plan
and write down everything. What is your character's target audience? Where
will your character be seen? What are your character vices and strong
qualities? These are all details that have a direct bearing on your character's
appearance.
Experiment.
You never know which queer detail will distinguish
your character and grab people's attention. Don't concentrate only on those parts of the character that are closely
connected with the story. Ignore all
rules and try something unusual – a peculiar skin color, twice bigger than the
normal-sized head, exaggerated features.
Give your
character a personality.
Characters that lack individuality will lack people's
interest in them too. How will your character express his/her emotions? Is he/she
communicative or shy? Is he/she evil or is he/she good? Does your character own
strength of will? Does he/she have any dreams, goals? These are all parts of
your character's personality and it can all be conveyed in the
way your character has been drawn.
Think 3D.
Don't forget that even on a two-dimensional surface
your character has more than one side.
Think of your character in its entirety and see how he/she would look
like from every viewpoint.
Think in
motion.
The image of your character may be static but the character
itself is probably not. Consider how you character would look in motion. Is
there anything unique in his/her movement – a trembling belly, hopping along,
etc.?
Test your
creation.
Show your work and ask people to describe how they see
your character's personality judging only by its appearance. This is a great
way to test whether you have conveyed well the personality you want.
And last but
not least – be patient!
No matter how great your talent is, you should always
be prepared for some struggle when developing your character. Don't allow
yourself to get discouraged if a certain feature doesn't fit the way you would
like or if your character does not quite convey the desired mood. Creating a
character requires you to give life to a drawing and that is never a simple
task.
Just about every business nowadays needs Graphic Design Services. Visit DreamsDesigning freelance graphic design studio’s website for a look at what CD / DVD cover design solutions it can offer for any design need.
