Lotus Pond: Cinematic Lighting and Render

The project, Lotus Pond came to be with an idea to exploring lighting and cinematic shots in Unreal Engine 5.6 as part of my first big project inside the real-time game engine. All elements of this scene are kitbashed from the Fab Marketplace, with me customizing their textures, size and placement. I placed a statue in the centre of the composition, focusing on symmetry and leading lines to bring out the emphasis on the centre. I playing with the volumetric fog settings, giving it a dull green and vibrant gold color. I also explored the implications of the lights and shadows against the arches, giving a beautiful mosaic pattern on the pond. I eventually opted on keeping the lighting simple, effective but magical, adding in a subtle Niagara system throughout to bring out the magic. I wanted to focus on the mood and the feelings generated by this piece, to highlight the serenity, stillness and calm of the devoid of faeries environment.

I wanted to created a world wherein after humans have perished, tiny faeries have taken over an old lotus pond once used by humans. They have co-opted this garden space, creating societies and cozy spaces in these tiny nooks and crannies; on the steps and in the greenery. They have adapted to the mess the humans left behind, building and living over daggers, treasure and gold left behind. Through these shots I wanted to bring forth the juxtaposition of these tony beings living in a human environment; and how seemingly small spaces have a rich and vibrant ecosystem.