FACS Rigging for Facial Motion Capture
Maya & Marmoset Toolbag Workflow with Madhav Shyam
Description
Learn the complete process of building a simplified FACS-based facial rig system using Maya and discover how to constrain motion-capture data shot with the iPhone ARKit system. Madhav Shyam, Creature Supervisor at Ghost VFX, kicks off the 10-hour workshop with the theory behind the key factors that contribute to making believable character performances. From there, Madhav jumps into building an intuitive rig system that drives the FACS shapes, while also demonstrating the process of constraining mocap data. Artists will learn how to render a range of motion animation using Maya and Marmoset Toolbag, and will complete the process by transferring both the animation and the rig system over to different types of characters.
This workshop is designed for intermediate-level artists who are looking to dive into the world of realistic facial performances. Project files are provided with this workshop, including the shapes required to build the rig system. For additional resources, artists can download the Free 3D Model Scan from 3dscanstore.com; additionally, 3dscanstore’s Gorilla Écorché 3d model is available for a small fee from their website.
By completing this workshop, artists will have a robust understanding of facial performance and a strong foundation from which to start building character rigs.
Duration: 10h 24m
Format: HD 1920x1080
Madhav Shyam
Creature Supervisor at Ghost VFX
Madhav Shyam is a CFX Lead, TD, and 3D Generalist at Chemistry Films, specializing in creature development for production. His work focuses on building and simulating complex creature systems, combining technical precision with artistic detail to bring characters to life on screen.
Over the course of his career, Madhav has contributed to major feature films including The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Troll, Slumberland, and 65. He was also credited by The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for Emmy Award–winning projects, including Star Trek: Discovery (2021, Outstanding Visual Effects) and The Dragon Prince (2020, Outstanding Children's Animated Series).
Madhav began his journey in visual effects and animation in Bangalore, India, in 2012. Over the past decade, his career has taken him across three continents, shaping his global perspective and expertise in creature-focused visual effects.
