I've been trying to create a realistic chimpanzee avatar that I can use for livestreaming, podcasts, interviews, and other video content. After spending way more time on it than I'd like to admit, I'm starting to realize I might need some help. So far I've tried Tripo 3D, Meshy.ai, Blender, Faceform Wrap, and Unreal Engine's MetaHuman Creator. I've managed to get some decent-looking models created, but getting everything rigged and working with facial tracking has been a completely different story. I'm also starting to think the models I've created might not be good enough to work with in the first place. Basically, I'm trying to create a realistic chimpanzee character with human-like proportions that can follow my facial expressions, mouth movements, blinking, head movements, arms, hands, and fingers in real time. The idea is to use the character as an on-screen host, whether that's during a livestream, participating in a podcast, doing an interview, or recording videos. Ideally, I'd like to use Unreal Engine and OBS, but I'm open to other options if they make more sense. I'd also like to be able to change clothing and accessories without having to create an entirely new character each time. I have Windows PCs, Android devices, and some decent webcams. I'd prefer not to need an iPhone, although I'm open to different tracking options. I've already put together reference images showing what I'm going for, along with some of the models I've been working with. I've looked into hiring someone and have received quotes ranging from $850 to $5,000. My initial budget: 250-750. I completely understand that this is skilled work and takes time, but this is still a personal project that hasn't made me any money. It's hard to justify putting that kind of money into something when I have no idea if it'll ever generate anything in return. I'm definitely not expecting someone to spend weeks working for free. I'm just wondering if there might be someone here who enjoys this kind of thing, is looking for a project to work on, or might be interested in helping for a more manageable cost. I'd be happy to work something out that's fair for both sides. Even if someone could just point me in the right direction or help me figure out a better way to approach it, that would be appreciated. The character would eventually be used for online content, potentially monetized, so commercial usage rights would need to be worked out for any commissioned work. If anyone has experience with 3D character rigging, facial tracking, Unreal Engine, or VTuber setups, I'd love to hear from you. Thanks!   submitted by   /u/ITM0nkey [link]   [comments]