The Train Project Part II

Ok so last we left off with the image partially mapped out. I have my 3D elements ready for texturing and my cliffs in place.  So once I had the basic idea as to how I wanted the image to feel, I began to work on finalizing the trestle by going out and shooting textures that I could apply as a texture map to the 3D model. I began by modelling a simple element, a railway tie, mapped the textures onto it, and rendered it out. I also modeled and rendered a rail as well although the rail won't really be seen. But hey, who knows where I might use this asset later.

Here's what the look like.

Two of the many rendered elements

I then mapped the entire trestle and rendered it out with the lighting angles that I determined earlier.

Textured Trestle

The final phase was to finesse the lighting through several adjustment layers. I used the rendered train "boxes" as a placeholder for the real train which I rented from a local model train shop. I took it into the studio and using the data from the 3D program, placed the model and camera and shot the train in pieces. Pieces you ask? Even at f/22 I was unable to hold the depth over the entire length of the train and I had to shoot it first with the locomotive in focus and then racking back car by car. The images were then imported into Photoshop and the train was built section by section till I had it completed.

Final Train

After that it was time to place the train in the final image and  work on marrying it in to the composite . Steam and smoke were added for more realism. I also added textures such as grime and rust to the train to make it not so "model" looking. I also had to adjust the shape of the receding cars slightly to fit the perspective of the plate and I reduced the contrast and saturation slightly to simulate the effects of atmosphere.

Once I was satisfied with the broad aspects of the image I started to drill down farther by adding smaller details.  Extra items were added such as bits of grass etc.

Here's the final image as it sits. I have a few last additions to make and that will be coming shortly. It will show what I really wanted in the final image from the start. I never intended for this to be just an image of a train chugging up a mountain pass but more of a story. An image that may make you look a bit closer and smile. It has two possible finishes. One is comical and the other is more ummm epic.

Not sure which way I'm going to go.

Posted by: Grant Waddell