This is a really interesting topic. I decided to revisit my Dark Castle Scene, which I never finished.
Here’s how I left it:
I think I got hung up on the textures too early (as usual), and then just never finished it. I’m going for a total remake.
Here’s my mock-up for the redesign:
Plan:
- Simplify shape of the castle
- Focus on the over-all scene composition before detailing
- Use a mix of image and procedural textures
- Use the Sapling add-on, or something similar to make the trees
- Try to make the moon be the primary light source (or fake it so it looks like that)
Artistically my goal is to make it seem spooky, but also make you feel invited/compelled to enter. Not sure if I can pull that off but I’m going to try. I’m open to suggestions and feedback as always.