Page 59 - Character Designer's Handbook [2020 Sampler Edition]

Character Inf luences

One of the best ways to create a unique and well-rounded character is to draw

inspiration from real people.

F
Familyamily
Everyone has a personal cast of real life characters in their own home.
Basing parts of a character from your family members can not only
add a realistic touch but also help you make a more intimate
connection to the character as you work with them.

Colleaguesolleagues
C
Many of us have a colorful cast of people around us in the
workplace. You can easily draw from that to add to a character
you're creating. It can also be a great opportunity to improve
observation skills and your understanding of how people interact.

Everyday Peopleveryday People
E
There's a surplus of real and interesting people in the world around
you from passersby to your next door neighbor. Learning to observe
and utilize traits in real people and translating them into parts of your
character can give you a great insight into what makes people tick
and stand out amongst each other.

C
Celebritieselebrities
Famous people are still human beings and some of them can be
valuable inspiration for a character. You can even double dip and
take traits from them as people and also from the roles they play in
society. Keep in mind celebrities aren't just entertainment people but
even athletes,politicians or anyone in the limelight.

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