Do places shape how people look?

This might be a stretch, but hear me out... when Steve Jobs was getting the word out for the iPhone for the first time, the big idea was combining an iPod, an Internet device, and a phone all in one. That was Apple's *design* philosophy.

With these characters, I tried to merge as many tools as possible into the outfit, to help the character do his job well, like it was a social contract in fabric, not just a barkeep cowboy costume from the old west.

Character Design Process — Start to Finish

This is just one of the steps I take when designing characters. I also spend a lot of time removing things, merging ideas, and just thinking about what comes next. If you walked in, it might look like I’m doing nothing... but really, I was battling with seven versions of aprons to help this guy handle happy hour better.

There's more to this than just aesthetics. For instance, do places shape how people look?

Here's a test I created for a personal project, where I tested how looks might vary depending on how far from a city these characters live, and what kind of tools they'd carry and why, depending on those very parameters.

Where does it all come from? How do we start with character design research?

Great character design isn't a fixed idea; it's the research process.

Here's a free tool I made for researching character design. This planning saves time, iterations, and avoids burning your budget with reworks.

Here's how to use it:

1. Define your character's Ego.

The Ego is a complex we all have. It helps us relate to the world around us.

1.1. Character Design Example: An Introverted Serial Killer.

He might wear a Matrix-style black coat and shades, and look shadowy and mysterious... But maybe he has a cat!

Why? It's unexpected (that's good), and you can make it work. Cats are loners and independent. Maybe he sees himself in the cat. Even if he doesn't consciously think about it, he just likes the cat... That's his Ego!

2. Define their Culture. These are the shared beliefs, values, and habits in a group. What culture supports your character?

2.1. If you design a biologist, should they look a bit hippie?

Example: Add a colorful bracelet or braid that shows the character’s culture. This helps show who they were as a kid, and how their love for nature is part of their job and has been part of them for a long time.

You're not just designing a biologist now, you're designing a person. One with a past, beyond the role they play in your game or film.

Good character design is a filter for visual information. A system of colors, patterns, shapes, and graphics that can communicate any message without using words.

If you have a project where you need concept art help with, contact me here.