The relighting process was executed using cinematic cameras, the sequencer, and the render queue in Unreal Engine 4. All post-processing was completed directly within the engine, utilizing advanced camera controls to enhance the final result. The lighting design draws inspiration from The Evil Within and other atmospheric styles, combining moody and cinematic elements. This breakdown will explore the lighting techniques and the methods used to achieve the final look.
Planning and Asset Selection:
For this project, I utilized Dekogon Clinton Crumpler's Subway Train asset. My goal was not only to relight the scene but also to imbue it with a sense of eeriness, capturing the atmosphere as if I were physically present, setting up the shot myself. This approach mirrors how I often envision lighting in real-world photography. Once I familiarized myself with the controls, I applied my photography knowledge, making the process smooth and intuitive. I was particularly thrilled to discover that the entire train was composed of separate modular pieces, allowing for greater creative flexibility.
Planning and Asset Selection:
For this project, I utilized Dekogon Clinton Crumpler's Subway Train asset. My goal was not only to relight the scene but also to imbue it with a sense of eeriness, capturing the atmosphere as if I were physically present, setting up the shot myself. This approach mirrors how I often envision lighting in real-world photography. Once I familiarized myself with the controls, I applied my photography knowledge, making the process smooth and intuitive. I was particularly thrilled to discover that the entire train was composed of separate modular pieces, allowing for greater creative flexibility.
Lighting Setup and Adjustments:
I experimented with rearranging elements to create a completely different atmosphere. It's amazing how much you can transform a scene when everything is laid out for you. Afterwards, I removed most of the default settings included with the pack, such as the lights, fog, and mesh light. However, I retained the emission elements, tweaking them slightly to better fit the desired mood and tone of the scene.
Camera Settings and Composition:
Only four lights were used in the scene, along with adjustments to both the fog and mesh lights. Additionally, I fine-tuned the camera settings to enhance the overall composition. Typically, in these types of environments, I prefer using a wide focal length of 20mm. After setting that up, I configured the usual ISO, shutter speed, and F-stop settings to achieve the desired exposure. I’ve always enjoyed incorporating punchy blacks into my work to evoke a sense of mystery and the unknown, and I was thrilled to bring that same approach into a 3D project.
Finalizing and Sequencing:
Once I was satisfied with the composition and lighting, I added the cameras into the sequencer and let my photographer instincts take over. Comparing the result to the original setup, the difference is striking.
Reflections on the Project:
Working on this project was an incredibly enjoyable experience, particularly because it allowed me to return to my roots as an adventurer—this time using Unreal Engine as my canvas.
The relighting was achieved by the use of cinematic cameras, sequencer and the render queue in Unreal Engine 4. All post-process was done directly in the Engine with additional camera controls. Reference is taken from The Evil Within and other various lighting styles. Here's a breakdown of this project. I'll discuss the Lighting and how this was achieved.
Reference & Inspiration:
Inspired by Sergey Tyapkin’s lighting techniques and the atmospheric style of The Evil Within (2016), this project aimed to recreate a similarly eerie and cinematic tone. These references provided a strong foundation for the lighting design, helping me craft a mood that balances tension and visual storytelling. Drawing from these influences allowed me to experiment with shadow play, color grading, and overall composition to an unsettling yet captivating environment.
Final Render:
Clinton Crumpler:
https://www.artstation.com/tyapkin
Sergey Tyapkin:
https://www.artstation.com/artwork/X02eY