Challenges:

• Character Consistency: Maintaining visual consistency between the young and older versions of each character was essential to ensure authenticity and believability.
• Aging Effects: Accurately depicting aging effects without losing the core identity and recognizability of each character required careful attention to detail.
• Alignment with Brand Aesthetics: Balancing Hallmark's signature wholesome and warm visual style with realistic AI-generated imagery.

Process:

1. Research & Reference Gathering: Studied character briefs, references, and similar Hallmark productions to capture the intended look and feel.
2. Concept Development: Created initial concepts of each character at different ages, focusing on preserving defining features while showing natural aging progression.
3. AI Generation & Refinement: Employed AI tools for image generation, followed by detailed adjustments in Photoshop to perfect expressions, skin textures, and other age-related nuances.
4. Feedback Loop: Collaborated closely with Diga Studios, incorporating feedback to fine-tune the final images.

Results:
The final deliverables included 13 high-quality, lifelike character images that effectively communicated the characters' journeys. These images supported Diga Studios' storytelling, helping to visualize the narrative arc and appeal to Hallmark’s audience.

Skills Utilized:

• AI image generation
• Character design
• Photoshop and digital painting
• Client collaboration and feedback integration