This render was created as one of my first Houdini projects. I used it to explore a procedural scattering workflow, where random gems and color groups were generated based on hand-drawn attribute masks. After setting up the scatter system, I also created a growth mask that allowed the gems to scale into existence over time.
The project was also my first real introduction to using VEX in my workflow. Many of the material properties and random variations were driven by code, which made me realize how powerful procedural setups can be for controlling a scene while still keeping it flexible.
Another important part of this project was the compositing process. It was the first time I properly worked with AOVs in compositing software to adjust the image more precisely and push it closer to the look I wanted. That workflow has stayed with me ever since and is now something I use in almost every 3D project.
The piece was inspired by the amazing work of Kathleen Ryan. I would like to revisit and refine it with my current skill set, especially by improving the gem materials and pushing the render quality further.
