Converting DAZ Studio FBX to CC Characters

The primary method for converting a DAZ Studio character is using the Transformer feature to import an FBX file. In Basic Mode, core textures (Diffuse and Opacity) are loaded automatically.

In the following steps, a G9 character from DAZ Studio is used as an example.

Exporting Characters from DAZ Studio (FBX)

  1. Create your character in DAZ Studio, including all desired morphs and clothing.
  2. In Character Creator, select the appropriate A-pose for the DAZ character based on your requirements.
    • Transformer Toolbar: Click the toolbar and select Get Daz A-Pose for CC3+ / CC5 HD.
    • Create Menu: Navigate to Create > Transformer > Get Daz A-Pose for CC3+ / CC5 HD.
    (Compatible A-poses for CC3+ and CC5 HD are located at: C:\Program Files\Reallusion\Character Creator 5\Program\Assets\ExternalFiles\DazResource\A_Pose).
  3. Drag and drop the compatible A-pose (e.g., Genesis9A_pose.duf) onto the character in DAZ Studio.

    Select the character and click Accept.

    The character is now ready for export in the correct pose.
  4. Export the character as an FBX file using FBX 2012 -- Binary (required).

    * Ensure that both Embed Textures and Collect Textures are deactivated in the export dialog.
  5. Save the FBX file.

Importing into Character Creator - FBX

  1. Launch Character Creator 5 and initiate the Transformer feature.
    • Transformer Toolbar: Click on the Transformer toolbar and choose the CC3+ or CC5 HD from the menu.
    • Create Menu: Choose the the CC3+ or CC5 HD from the Create > Transformer menu.
  2. Select your exported FBX file and click Open.
  3. Choose the corresponding character type and click OK.
  4. In the subsequent dialog, select BASIC to load the Diffuse and Opacity textures applied in DAZ Studio.
  5. In the Asset Import Status Report panel, enable Bake Body Texture to apply DAZ textures to the character's skin, eyes, teeth, and nails.

    You can specify the resolution for baked textures by selecting a value from the Bake Max Texture Size drop-down list.
    ClosedImporting Complete Textures

    To import a complete set of textures from DAZ Studio, you must complete the Texture Profile (*.ini) and Texture Folder fields.

    For detailed instructions, please refer to the Using INI for Loading All Body Texture section.

  6. Identify and categorize the character's components in the Asset Import Status Report panel.
    ClosedNote:
    • Typically, the Hair type must be selected manually.
    • Tear Object (CC Tearline): This item can either be set to the Hair type or deactivated entirely.
      • To set as Hair: Select "Hair" from the Type drop-down menu.
      • To deactivate: Uncheck the item in the Import column.
  7. Click OK to import the character and its associated assets. The DAZ Studio character will then be successfully converted for use in Character Creator.
  8. The Diffuse and Opacity (for eyelashes only) textures will be auto-loaded. You can verify these in the Texture Settings section. The default folder path is: C:\DAZ 3D\Applications\Data\DAZ 3D\My DAZ 3D Library\Runtime\Textures\...
    ClosedNote:

    The Metallic and Roughness channels are initially empty but will be automatically populated with default textures by Character Creator.

    When the imported character is switched to a higher subdivision level, the surface geometry is refined into finer meshes; however, no additional surface details (such as high-frequency wrinkles or pores) will be generated unless a high-poly source was used.

    Subdivision Level = 0

    Subdivision Level = 1

    Subdivision Level = 2

For further steps, please refer to the Procedures After Conversion section.