New to DazStudio; question about different 'models'

WsCG

Hello everyone,

Forgive me if this is explained elsewhere; I haven't been able to find it.

Basically, as in my subject, I'm new to DazStudio and am attempting to learn it. There are things about the program that I'm confused about, though, and I think this really comes back to getting a grasp on what the whole "thinking" is behind how it works, etc.

So, the default install for DazStudio comes with Genesis and Genesis 2 models, male and female.

I'm aware there are also other models, such as Victoria 4, Victoria 5, Victoria 4 Elite, Aiko, Stephanie 4, and so on...

Now, what I'm getting from this, is that these are different "foundations" you can work from. But what I find confusing, and a bit overwhelming, is why would I use one over another? What are the differences between them?

For example, I'm looking to create mock-ups of characters I'm creating for a game project. There are certain looks/features I'm looking to create for some of them. For example, for the main character, I want to have a woman who is about 20 years old, roughly 5' 7" tall, feminine but not "glamorous" or over-sexualized (something that seems common among Daz's content lol). She'll have a very simple, functional hair style (pulled back with pony-tail, and perhaps some bangs hanging down). She's going to be an adventurer type... so a bit tomboy-ish as well. More Merida, less Lara Croft.

Similarly I have certain ideas in mind for other characters, such as an older woman, and a rather evil looking dude, to name a couple.

How would I know what model is best to work with to get that end? Do I have to sorta just sift through all the different content/morps until I find the one that has the look I want, and then get the corresponding base model?

Are certain models designed around a certain range of uses/looks/styles? Or, is any look/style achievable with any of them, but perhaps some are just more flexible than others, etc?

Aside from learning my way around the editor and figuring out how this all works together (it feels rather like putting together a jigsaw puzzle to me at this point, sifting around 'til I find the right piece for the spot), I think that's one of the biggest hurdles I'm facing. I don't understand what the foundation of Daz Studio is, how all these different models work together, how to know which is best for what purpose, etc. etc.

So.. if someone could give me a sorta coarse, 10,000 foot overview of it... or perhaps point me to somewhere that explains the "philosophy" behind Daz's setup and workflow, so I can maybe grasp it better and understand the big picture better.. that would be awesome. I think understanding the big picture will help provide context for the more granular aspects as I come across them.

Thanks for your time and help :)

Chohole

Would this help any A History of DAZ 3D Human Figures

There is also the official Compatbility Matrix Which tells you what works with what.

WsCG

chohole said:

Would this help any A History of DAZ 3D Human Figures

There is also the official Compatbility Matrix Which tells you what works with what.

Well it certainly helps - especially the compatibility table. Gives me at least a good idea of what the 'base' looks like for each, and a clear place to start.

The history bit is an interesting read, too.

Thanks :)

In terms of "how to pick the best one for my goals", I guess it's a matter of just looking at them and seeing what morps and such are available, and building up a library?

jestmart

Stick with Genesis or Genesis 2, they have adjustable rigging that makes them more versatile for all sorts of body shapes, sizes and proportions.

SickleYield

Yep. Genesis 2 represents the latest iteration of the technology in terms of bending and rigging - look at the way the shoulders and knees bend vs. generation 4 and you'll see what I mean. Depending on how much tweaking you're willing to do, and whether you're able to buy the Generation 4 clones and UVs for G2, you can also use Generation 4 and Genesis 1's clothing and characters on G2.

Now of course I'm saying this as a DAZ Published Artist. I will always prefer the latest version of the tech because it makes creating new content easier for me personally. ;) Genesis 2 has been very good to me, and when or if there's a successor to that I will be among the first to take it up.