Best alternative for digital spokesperson ...


https://forum.reallusion.com/Topic486282.aspx
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By Dr. Neo - 4 Years Ago
I am creating a digital character to be used as the narrator for a series of videos..  This character does not need to exhibit extensive human likeness, but needs to take 
my facial and hand motions as captured by an app on my iPhone and translate them onto the character.. The character will be used as both a narrator for videos, and a character than can be exhibited in interview form within ZOOM and on TV talk shows.  The character will seek to become the "obvious expert" in the field of physical and mental automation and its impact on both the global economy and average Joe and Jane.     

I want a solution not an education.  What app do I need, how do I create the character, or where do I go to get the character created.  This space is so new and moving so fast
that it is easy to go down the rabbit hole and end up chasing the next thing..  I just want some help getting from point A to point B.  Point me  in a direction, or be my guide.

The value of the character comes from the content and delivery of the information first, and the physical appearance and animation of the character second.  I have a very detailed   character profile that includes a detailed backstory and archetype analysis.  The image below is meant to communicate the concept and not the final form of the character

Any information would be greatly appreciated.  And I'm  big fan of communication by example, "like this?, or how about this ..." (link to proposed solution).

Mike.
 https://forum.reallusion.com/uploads/images/671bf382-a33f-4942-b43e-ed8a.png.   
By Peter (RL) - 4 Years Ago
Hi Mike

Unfortunately CrazyTalk 8 doesn't support motion capture in any form. However we do have other software that can meet your needs.

But first have to decide whether you want to work with 2D or 3D characters. If you want 2D characters (sprite or photo based) then Cartoon Animator 4 can help you do what you want to achieve. If you want to go with a full 3D character then iClone 7 will also meet your requirements.

In both cases you will also need to purchase the Motion Live Plug-in and the Gear Profiles for the hardware you plan to use for the motion capture (iPhone etc.).

So please let us know if you are looking for a 2D or 3D solution and we'll be happy to give you a list of what you need and point you to the necessary learning resources.
By Kelleytoons - 4 Years Ago
To add to what Pete just told you.

If you want to use ONLY your iPhone to control your avatar you are most likely better off with the RL 2D solution.  iClone (my own software of choice) can not use the iPhone to control anything other than the face (which it does superbly but that and head movements are all it will do).  For arms you would need either the Leap controller (a device which "sort of" works to do that, although not very well) or a mocap suit (a device which works supremely to do it but is a lot more $$$).

In Cartoon Animation AFAIK it can and does do *some* arm or perhaps body movements with the iPhone (while I have it I have yet to have the time to really test it out - too much software, too little time).  But even it might not do as much as you are looking to do.

You might get more help if you pointed to a sample of video, regardless of whether it's yours or not, that has the motions you are looking to achieve.  My gut tells me you will either have to lower your expectations or change your hardware requirements.