Reallusion Software It'sMe

Austin Powers's nemesis Dr Evil has one, Dolly the Sheep is one and now you too can clone yourself. All you need is a photograph, some computer software and a bit of time.

It'sMe imports facial details from photographs to create funky 3D animated versions of real people. The end result is a personal electronic avatar that can sing, dance and walk like an Egyptian.

This can then be exported as an animated image and used for email signatures, web page icons or simply to inspire evil cohorts bent on world domination.

It's wisest to begin with the tutorials, which can be accessed from the installation window or via an internet link in the Help section. These are cumbersome but comprehensive and it's easy to get lost in the program without them.

Start the program, select a new character and a basic model will salute you and await your modifications. Select face shapes, hairstyles and outfits by scrolling through the choices and double-clicking.

Then you can add background scenery, lighting and music to accompany your avatar's realistic movement - whether it's running in circles, karate chopping or playing air guitar.

Fitting a photographed face to your avatar is the hard part. In theory, any full-face photograph will do but in reality, only a clear headshot will work.

The idea is to match up your features to a 3D 'wire frame' guide, while you perfect details like positioning and skin tone.

Skin tone is difficult to master and it may take a few goes to get past the Frankenstein's monster effect, but after all that time and effort it's satisfying to see a stylised little mini-you hopping energetically across the screen.

Price: £30

Contact: Reallusion Software/Scarlet Software 0800 169 1341
www.reallusion.com

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