Max-U52

Here lately there's been some talk about learning to take better photos, and that led to some talk about doing backgrounds and figures, so it's the perfect time to get one of these going. Especially you two, Ryan and Joe. No hurry, but if you don't have a figure kit on hand it's time to look around for one. Here's what I have in mind.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cn9h8wFtXCs

R|M|D Photography

I'd like to, but none of my local hobby shops carry any figures except in 1/35. If I find something reasonable online I may pick something up but budget is kinda tight right now.

Max-U52

I know how it goes with the budget. Try this dude. I have one and it's a fairly easy build and for less than 15 bucks delivered it's not too painful.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tamiya-36303...item5420a7a50a

There are lots and lots of figures available for cheap on ebay and amazon.

Panther F

So... what's the prize or certificate of accomplishment for the "GROUP BUILD"?

I have figures in my endless stash that need to be built but need to have a slight PUSH to get motivated.





Jeff

Pah co chu puk

I'm on a strict budget these days too. I shop here for scale dudes.

https://www.scalehobbyist.com/browse...=0&era=6&sc=16

Tanker 10

Does it have to be a plastic kit, how about a resin Verlinden?


OK, I'm in with this one, I hope to have it by August 20TH.

TAM00036303_0_l.jpg

Max-U52

Hmmm, a prize. That would be a new one for me but I like new things. Any ideas? For me the prize will be another cool guy for the village and hopefully some improvements to my skills. The photo Joe posted shows me I need to up my game in the firearms department and just turning them black with a sharpie ain't gonna cut it for this build.

I suppose I could contribute a couple of 55 gal fuel drums as part or all of a prize. How do we decide who wins? It kinda sounded to me like Jeff was volunteering to print certificates of accomplishment for everyone that participates, but a prize for the best build is intriguing to me. I think it's at least worth further discussion.

So which of your figures are you gonna build, Jeff.

Max-U52

Thanks for reminding me about scalehobbyist, Greg, I've bought a lot of stuff from them in the past and they're a great vendor. These days I usually check squadron and sprue brothers first for static stuff and by the time I get done with those scalehobbyist seems to get forgotten. You'd think a cheapskate like me would go there first since they have better prices on most stuff. That first guy in your link was the first 1/16 figure I built and I've been thinking about getting another since you can build him two ways.

So are you in, too, Greg? Remember there's no hurry on this, and I expect it will be a while before everyone's figures are done. If I knew stuff like photoshop I'd volunteer to have everyone send me a photo of their finished figure and I'd put them all together for a group photo. Maybe this will be a good excuse to learn about photoshop?

Max-U52

That's great, Joe. I have that guy, too, and he's pretty cool. I like to set him up with the cavalry soldier like the guy on horseback is pointing out what he wants the other guy to annihilate. That photo you showed is what I would like to one day achieve, especially with the face! Where did you get the photo? Whoever built that guy is damn good, but it makes me wonder how much good photography can make a good figure look even better. Another one of the reasons I'm really hoping Ryan will participate.

This is Joe's photo.

Max-U52

The website says you've been browsing, Chase, so get your butt in here.

Tanker 10

I wish I could take credit for the paint Gary but that's the photo from the web site. I hope that I can come close to making mine look that good when it arrives.

Pah co chu puk

OK, I'm in.

I will do this guy...

https://www.scalehobbyist.com/catago...so=a&e=0&sc=16

all white, how hard can that be?

If I had more money, this guy would look good with my Abrams.

https://www.scalehobbyist.com/catago...so=a&e=0&sc=16

tomhugill

Does this count?

Figure primed:





Base coats:




In place in the M50:






More close up:

tomhugill

Bodys from the guy in the hatch:



Heads from the guy on the right:

Max-U52

I think that's the goal for us all, Joe. My guy doesn't look anywhere near that good, but one of the great things about figures is that you can go back and fix stuff. My guy like that needs a lot more work to his camo, but I can just keep adding the dots until I'm satisfied and then another clear coat. Here's my guy like that, and if you zoom you can see he still needs a lot of work. That's one reason I'm so glad you're doing this guy, Joe, cuz I should get some ideas and tips out of the deal.



All Right, Greg! Glad you're on board. I like this guy, and since it's resin it will be educational for us all.



I'm really looking forward to seeing this one come to life.

Sorry Tom, but as great as that TC is, he's already done so he doesn't count. I'm sure you have a next project in the wings, though, so I'm sure we all hope we'll get to see you bring it to life. You're one of the guys that I really think I'll learn valuable stuff from, so I really hope you have a figure kit in the stash or are willing to pick one up. I also hope you'll do another kitbash, because I could sure use some sharpening up there. Being able to watch you graft stuff together from different kits to get another one of those masterpieces and being able to ask questions along the way would be priceless. Stuff like what kind of glues and fillers you use in different stages is valuable info for me.

I'm still hoping Jeff and Ryan will pick one to build, and anybody else that wants to. The more the merrier!

tomhugill

Ah shucks! Never mind, I have my shouty panther commander and some Russian crew and I tiger commander I promised I would paint for a member, oh and a DAK commander that will need much cutting!

Max-U52

Now that sounds GREAT!! Exactly the kind of stuff I want to see, especially from a guy with a skillset like yours, Tom. It really is great to have you on board and I can't wait to see your first photos.

I got my guy out of the box and the body parts glued together so I'll get some stills of stage one and post them soon.

I'm really hoping we can also get Ausf in on this. I know it's not his usual cup of tea, and since he does this kind of thing professionally he doesn't like to give away trade secrets, but I think we would all benefit from his participation, so how about it, Jeff? Can we entice you to join our little foray into improving our figure skills?

Airbrushler

i have the same guy i was fooling around with the photoshop...lol

Panther F

Oh no! I never volunteer anymore... lesson learned the hard way. Just thought I'd ask since YOU started the thread. Most of the GROUP BUILDS I've been involved with (either as the Campaign Leader or a participant) has been a small symbol of finishing the build.

But it's not a mandatory thing as far as I am concerned.

And as far as what I AM going to build remains the question. So when is this to start as it looks like a few need to get theirs first.




Jeff

Max-U52

We can start whenever. I see no need to hurry. Some guys build faster than others so whenever guys are ready is cool. I've already started mine but nothing ready for photos yet. I'm looking forward to all parts, from kits arriving in the mail to finishing touches, and I don't see a need to try to adhere to any kind of schedule. Very informal and laid back is the key. The last thing I want is a competition, just guys sharing experiences as we add accessories to our tanks. We'll be very hippie about this one.

Max-U52

Now that I have the work room somewhat in order I thought I'd get started. Anybody else making any progress?



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYbHYykpM18

Tanker 10

I brought mine with me to the lake. No way to show my progress however. He's built, has some paint on his pants, shirt, leggings, and boots.

Max-U52

Great! Can't wait to see him!

Pah co chu puk

I haven't even ordered mine yet... as usual, I'm holding up the class.

Soon, I had to buy my daughter birthday presents last week.

Max-U52

You should have bought her a figure kit.