A neat, but overlooked, gem within Manga Studio 5 is the wealth of posable 3D models that are available to use for reference. To find these references, go to Window > Material > Material and select any one of the posable models from the list.
Once you have selected your model, you can manipulate its pose AND camera with the aid of MS5′s built-in 3D tools. Simply select the appropriate area you want to move (the selected area will be highlighted in red), and (depending upon the area you choose) an orbit of X,Y, and Z rotation axes appear. Here is a character I posed using the “Shriek” pose as a starting point.
Want an easy way of manipulating the hands? No problem. MS5 offers many varied hand models that you can choose from. Simply drag the hand pose you want and place it ontop of the hand on the existing 3D figure model. I had a “WOAH!” moment the first time I saw it.
Here’s how I used the initial pose in my workflow:
As an artist, having posable 3D models within a tool is an invaluable asset. And with tools to make you an even better artist already built in, MS5 is even more of a must-buy for digital artists.
-Krishna
P.S. Want more digital workflow tips? Here ya go!
