How to use FilaToon and Genesis 9 Toon Shapes in Daz Studio

With the release of the FilaToon Shader and Genesis 9 Toon shapes in Daz Studio, the doors to anime-inspired creativity have been flung wide open. These tools bring the perfect balance of stylistic charm and versatility, making it easy to craft unique characters, whether you’re aiming for anime, cartoon, or entirely new visual styles.

This blog dives into the highlights of these new features, with links to an in-depth tutorial for those looking to master every detail. Whether you’re exploring the anatomy of Genesis 9 Toon or tweaking FilaToon Shader settings, there’s something here for everyone.

Genesis 9 Toon: A New Category of Characters

The Genesis 9 Toon figures redefine character design with their unique anatomy and functionality, all optimized for Filament rendering. Start with either the masculine or feminine base figure and build from there. The figures come preconfigured with elements that give them their distinct cartoon look:

– Floating Iris and Eye Shadow Plane: Designed for a dramatic, anime-style gaze.
– Anatomy Features: Brows, eyelashes, and detailed mouth components are all customizable.
– Preset Poses and Accessories: Perfect for designing Toon characters quickly without starting from scratch.

Using a distant light and the Filament Draw Options node ensures these figures look fantastic in Filament mode. The customization possibilities are nearly endless, making it easy to craft both unique original characters and fan tributes.

FilaToon Shader: Crafting the Perfect Toon Look

The FilaToon Shader isn’t just about adding a simple outline that emulates anime styles, and it isn’t just a shader engine, it’s a comprehensive system that transforms materials and surfaces to fit a toon aesthetic. Here’s a glimpse of what you can do:

1. Customize Outlines: Use the Geometry Shell offset to adjust the thickness of outlines dynamically.
2. Material Conversions: Apply the FilaToon Shader preset to hair, clothing, and even environments to create a cohesive look.
3. Real-Time Adjustments: The Shader updates in real-time as you tweak settings, offering instant feedback on your changes.
4. Expanded Rendering Options: Enjoy new Filament-specific settings, like color grading, to achieve the perfect balance of light and shadow.

Tips and Tricks for FilaToon Success

Here are a few advanced tips for those who want to push the FilaToon system further:

– Simulate Hair for Dynamic Effects: Using tools like dForce, you can create dynamic hair that responds naturally in animations.
– Experiment with Skin and Lighting: Combine Genesis 9 Toon shapes with unconventional skin tones or blend morphs for other Genesis 9 characters.
– Use Presets Wisely: Save frequently used settings as presets to speed up your workflow.

Beyond Anime: Exploring New Styles

While FilaToon excels at anime, its versatility extends far beyond. It can be used to create Western-style cartoons, stylized video game characters, or even experimental 3D art. For inspiration, try applying the Shader to non-human characters or blending toon elements with realistic ones. There are no rules to how you can use FilaToon – no need to use it on every element in the scene. Add visual effects or Iray elements to create a unique look.

For a step-by-step walkthrough of these features, including how to apply the FilaToon Shader and tips on using Genesis 9 Toon shapes, check out our detailed tutorial. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or new to 3D design, FilaToon and Genesis 9 Toon are tools that can transform your creative process.

Dive in and see where your imagination takes you!