Photorealistic background technology in manga: 3D, CGI, photo

Manga, a Japanese form of comics and graphic novels, became popular because of its unique style and interesting stories. But behind the seemingly simple picture is a tremendous amount of work and skill, especially when it comes to the creation of the background. The background plays an important role in manga by adding depth, atmosphere, and the mood and context of history. Recently, many manga artists have begun to use modern technologies such as 3D modelling, computer graphics (CGI) and photo processing to make their work more realistic. This visual study affects various methods of creating photorealistic background in manga. It will consider how artists use 3D simulations to create complex architectural structures, CGI to add textures and lighting, and the processing of photos to integrate real images into manga. These technologies not only facilitate the creation of the background, but also create new creative opportunities, allowing artists to experiment with different styles and create more convincing and exciting works.

Before going deeper into modern techniques, it is important to understand how the technology for the construction of the manga has evolved. In the early years, the Mangaki relied exclusively on traditional painting methods, using feathers, ink and watermelon to create detailed scenes. Each background was painted manually, which took a great deal of time and required a high degree of skill. However, with the development of digital technologies and the emergence of specialized software, the background process has become much simpler and more flexible. The transition from traditional methods to digital methods began in the 1990s, when computers and software became more accessible. This allowed the Mangacs to experiment with new techniques and introduce elements of photorealism into their works. One of the first mangacs to actively use digital technology was Katsuhiro Otomo, author of the famous Akira. His work has shown that the use of computers can not only accelerate the manga process, but also open up new artistic opportunities.

Three-dimensional simulations have become one of the most popular methods of creating photo-realistic background in manga. With programs such as Blender, Sketchup and Clip Studio Paint, the Mangaki create three-dimensional models of buildings, interiors, and even whole cities. These models become the basis for drawing the background, thus greatly accelerating the process and achieving a high level of detail.

Hiroya Oku, author of the manga «Gantz» and «Inuyashiki», uses three-dimensional simulations to develop futuristic objects and urban landscapes, making his works recognized by unique visual style.

When the heads of the manga are created, Oku starts with the sketches of the pages. He then creates three-dimensional models of characters and background on his computer. After completing the work, Oku prints out three-dimensional versions of characters and background, puts shades and colors on the pages, and adds sound effects and dialogues.

Oku has already applied this style in Zero One, but for this manga there wasn’t enough hand-painting, so he decided to add more hand-paints to make Ganz more realistic and cost-effective. However, Oku acknowledges that such an approach takes a long time and has to work quickly to meet the deadlines.

Takashi Obata, a famous contemporary manga author, is also a good example of how digital technologies contribute to the creation of photo-realistic background. In his work, including «Death Note» and «Bakuman», Obata is able to combine classical painting techniques with the latest digital tools.

«Death Note» focuses on urban landscapes and interiors. Takashi Obata uses 3D simulations to create complex architectural scenes. For example, in an episode where Light Yagami’s main hero moves around town, you can see the amazing detailing of buildings and streets. These elements not only make history more realistic, but also reinforce a sense of tension and drama.

In his interview, Obata said that it would take too much time and effort to develop such scenes manually. With the use of three-dimensional models, it can quickly create the background, which then improves manually to achieve the required degree of detail and atmosphere.

CGI (computer-generated image) is a process of using computer technology to create or improve visual elements in a work. In manga, computer graphics are often used to add parts such as textures and lighting that are difficult or impossible to draw manually.

Tsutomu Nihei, author of popular mang «Blame!» and «Knights of Sidonia», was one of the first to use CGI to create photo-realistic background. In his work, he actively uses computer technology to create complex and detailed scenes.

In the manga «Blame!», computer graphics (CGI) are used to create dark and industrial decorations that highlight the post-apocalyptic atmosphere of history. Tutomu Nihei uses CGI to develop complex architectural structures and geometric forms that are then integrated into his work. This allows it to create scenes with an incredible degree of detail and depth that is not possible with the use of traditional methods.

The use of photos as a background is a way for mangakis to become photoreal. It consists of photographing the real places and then processing the images for addition to the work. Photographs can be changed, supplemented or repainted to match the style and atmosphere of history.