Objective: Develop a dynamic and engaging animated NFT video that reflects the theme of the Pixel Ghost NFT collection and highlights the merch redemption process.

1. Initial Research and Consultation

   • Blockchain Selection: Discussed with the client to confirm their preferred blockchain for minting, ensuring compatibility for NFT marketplaces.
   • Hosting Options: Explored options for video storage, including IPFS and cloud hosting, for reliable and decentralized accessibility.
   • NFT Ticket Design Preferences: Engaged with the client on ticket design ideas, narrowing down to a universal Pixel Ghost NFT as the main ticket visual. Explored whether to include holders' unique NFTs or a standardized theme.

2. Visual Concept

   • Lego Frame Design: Since the merch is a Lego replica of the NFT, the video’s focal point became a Lego frame. In this frame, the Pixel Ghost NFT would appear, representing the "ticket" in a loopable sequence.
   • Ghostly Forest Theme: To match the Pixel Ghost vibe, I applied a moody, dark forest backdrop with blue and purple stage lighting, giving it a spooky, atmospheric glow.
   • Animation Concept: Designed an animation sequence where the Lego frame builds itself around the Pixel Ghost NFT. The NFT card appears in the center, fades out, and then the frame disassembles, creating a seamless loop for marketplaces.

Modeling and Animation Setup

1. Scene Setup

   • Created the environment in 3ds Max, setting up appropriate lights, HDRI maps, and VRay settings for a cinematic feel.
   • Modeled and textured Lego pieces to construct the frame that would encase the NFT ticket.

2. Animation Details

   • Frame Build-Up: Manually animated each Lego piece’s movement to make the frame build gradually in a lifelike fashion.
   • Spinning Animation: Added a slight spinning motion to the frame in keyframes, enhancing the mystical vibe as the Lego pieces lock into place.
   • Disassembly and Looping: Reversed the frame's build animation and adjusted keyframes to ensure the Lego pieces disassemble naturally, forming a seamless loop.

3. NFT Card Animation

   • Pixel Ghost NFT Card: Applied a slow fade-in effect as the NFT appears in the Lego frame’s center.
   • TyFlow and Fracture Effects: Fractured the NFT card using TyFlow to create smaller particles. Played with opacity keyframes to generate a "build-up" effect for the card, adding layers of intrigue.

1. After Effects Enhancements

   • Imported the rendered sequence into After Effects, applying level and curve modifiers for a refined look.
   • Added a fading digital effect for the Pixel Ghost NFT card by using modifiers and manipulating alpha channels, giving it an otherworldly vanishing effect.

2. Export and Finalization

   • Rendered the final animation in a loopable format, optimized for NFT marketplaces.
   • Delivered in social media-friendly formats to allow Pixel Ghost NFT holders to share easily, aligning with the client’s branding needs.