3D modeling is the game-changing CG technology, creating virtual objects in a digital environment. This digital art technique has a successful application rate in thousands of industries’ development processes.
From the gaming and filming industry to the manufacturing, engineering, and technology industry- 3d models play an influential role. The use cases will continue to grow.
So, we’ve decided to give you an overview of the 3d model technique, how it works, what software to use, and so on. Welcome onboard!
What you’ll learn in this article
What is 3D Modeling?
3D modeling stands for creating a three-dimensional representation, look, and characteristics of an object, surface, or anything by using 3d modeling software.
Through this process, a real object is created digitally in a virtual space. As a result, it appears realistically with appropriate shape, size, and textures.
What is 3D Modeling Used for?
3D modeling is a versatile technique for designing, visualizing, developing, and refining intricate details structures for many industries including research, education, entertainment, product manufacturing, and architecture. Here is what it is used for based on industries.
Entertainment & Media
3D models are used for pre-visualizing, indicating details, special effect creating, rigging, immersive world & settings designing, and so on. The gaming and entertainment industry uses this technique for gaming character development, virtual environment creation, film, and motion graphics.
Product Design & Manufacturing
This 3D model brings manufacturing and product-designing business ideas to light. The digital representation of objects significantly reduces the cost of physical prototyping and helps businesses explore different functionalities, visualization, and further steps.
Architecture & Interior Design
In interior and architectural design, three-dimensional modeling is used for conceptualizing architectural design which is different from traditional hand-drawn methods. As a result, a realistic architect digital model creation is easier and more efficient for both small and large spaces.
Healthcare & Medicine
3D models have revolutionized the medicine and healthcare industry for better patient care. The system provides comprehensive views for research, diagnosis, and treatment segments, and also aids in pre-surgical plans, medical equipment designing, patient communication, and educating process.
Education & Training
The education and Training industry has seen revolutionary changes, thanks to interactive 3D modeling. It has simplified complicated ideas, offered a realistic representation of topics, and showed meticulous guides on different components for the students, enriching their learning process.
Marketing & Advertising
3D model is a top-level performer for business marketing approaches. With 3D, Brands provides product visualization, advertising, immersive experiences, product designing, and virtual demo creation process; boosting engagement rates.
Scientific Research & Exploration
For scientific research, 3D modeling is inevitable. It has accelerated the scientific process, for example, scientists can simulate natural phenomena and understand ecology, research human organs and fossils, explore and create celestial bodies, test robotics and artificial intelligence, and so on.
What are the Types of 3D Modeling?
The types of 3D modeling depend on the project requirements, work details, and expected results. From personal use to industrial-grade development, modeling works cover a broad range.
Here are the common 5 discussed below.
1. Polygonal Modeling
Also known as Mesh Modeling, Polygonal Modeling creates 3D shapes using smaller components like edges, vertices, faces, triangles, polygons, etc. By manipulating these components a mesh is formed for further work of shapes or structures creation. There are different techniques used for creating polygonal modeling, such as Extrusion, Beveling, Subdivision, Inset, Biset, etc.
The polygonal model is highly effective in rendering, offers a flexible and scalable working process, is adaptable for animation and users can go for detailed texturing. That’s why it is mostly used in animation, films, video games, 3d printing, AR, VR, and so on.
Is Polygonal Modeling Related to Low-poly, High-poly, and Retopoly?
Low-poly, high-poly, and retoplogy related to polygonal modeling, to be specific, directly with mesh.
Here is how.
- High-Poly: Mesh that is sculpted with voxel-based 3d models among many other modeling techniques. It is used for capturing fine and extreme details, for example, face wrinkles.
- Low-Poly: Mesh having lower poly count or 3d models created from low polygons, still maintaining the overall form of the model, used for models needing real-time rendering.
- Retopology: It is the process of creating new mes, mostly a low poly instead of a high poly, preserving the details of high poly yet reducing the number of polygons, for example: creating 3d models for 3d printing.
2. NURBS Modeling
Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines (NURBS) is a mathematical technique of 3d graphics and computer-aided design (CAD) used for creating simple surfaces, curves, and shapes into complex forms precisely.
The basics of NURBS include control points, knots, weights, parameterization, etc. For its higher accuracy, flexibility, and scalability, it is used in the mechanics, animation, automotive, product design, engineering industries, organic modeling, and architecture industries.
3. Procedural Modeling
In procedural modeling, 3D models are generated by using algorithms such as rules, parameters assorted data, etc. With the application of L-systems, generative, and fractals techniques, modelers can create highly detailed and realistic models.
Procedural modeling is ideal for VFX, game development, and generating landscapes due to the flexibility of shape determining and scalability.
4. Sculpting
Digital sculpting in 3D modeling is a digital manipulation technique for shaping up an object. It is similar to pottery work. With the software, users pull, push, smooth, and pinch a flat block (virtual clay) to formulate a structure, adding texture and details until it resembles the original target.
Sculpting is used for highly detailed and refined shapes, such as character design, product design, texturing, 3d printing, etc.
5. BIM (Building Information Modeling)
3d BIM Modeling is the virtual representation of infrastructure projects. With this technology, architects, and engineers build intelligent, 3d models of buildings or other constructions to display the structure, materials, cost information, etc, and thus get collaboration improved, visualization, and efficiency enhanced.
What is the Best 3d Modeling Software?
Among the diverse ranges of software available in the market, our team shortlisted, compared 20 of them, and boiled down to 5. Check out the list of 5 best 3d modeling software both free and paid versions.
1. Autodesk 3ds Max
Autodesk 3ds Max is a multi-faceted modeling software. It offers pro-level functionalities and has a diverse set of comprehensive tools for high-quality design, visualization, animation, etc. The software is especially popular among interior and architecture designing, gaming and filming, and industries that require intricate details design.
Features:
- Retopology tools
- Realistic materials with variants
- Color management and compatibility
- Interactive viewpoints to reduce design iteration
- Supports glTF, USD, FBX, and CAD file formats
| Pros | Cons |
| Diverse tools for complicated design | The system requires a powerful setup |
| Dynamic and customizing interface | |
| Compatible with third-party plugins |
Price: Autodesk 3ds Max’s subscription-based pricing is available into
1 month- $235, 1 year- $1875 and 3 year- $5625.
2. Blender
Blender is an open-source 3d creation suite offering an entire pipeline, from modeling to video editing. The tool is perfect for team collaboration and the offered features are suited both for personal and commercial usage.
Features:
- Rendering and modeling
- Sculpting and VFX
- Animation and Rigging
- Pipeline and Simulation
| Pros | Cons |
| Free software for 3d modeling | Doesn’t support NURBS |
| Has versatile tools for different works | |
| A large active community to connect with |
Price: Free of cost.
3. Autodesk Maya
Autodesk Maya is one of the best 3d designing software. It is equipped with industrial-grade features for modeling, rendering, simulation, character movements, and so on. This is the reason Autodesk Maya is often used in VFX and animation works.
Features:
- Modeling and Rigging
- Simulations and Effects (Bifrost)
- Look at development and rendering
- Pipeline and OpenUSD workflows
| Pros | Cons |
| Industry-level work | The software is costly. |
| Procedural effect | |
| Photoreal rendering |
Price: Autodesk Maya’s pricing is categorized into: 1 month- $235, 1 year- $1875, and 3 year- $5625.
4. ZBrush
ZBrush is a 3d printing software, renowned in the industry for its detail-oriented working accessibility. It works similarly to Adobe Substance 3d modeler, allowing users to sculpt on clay (virtually).
Features:
- Base Mesh Creation and Brush System
- Sculptural Freedom and Polygon Modeling
- Crease Edge UV Unwrap and MorphUV
- Polypaint, SpotLight, and Custom Materials
| Pros | Cons |
| Photorealistic rendering | Steep learning curves |
| Has numerous plugins | |
| Powerful organic sculpting tools |
Price: ZBrush is billed annually at € 36.79/mo or monthly at € 55.35/mo.
5. SketchUp
SketchUp is one of the best sketching tools that is versatile, user-friendly, and intuitive. It allows individuals and companies to proceed with their miniature to massive 3d design works. However, the tool is mainly suitable for early-stage designs.
Features:
- 2d Drawing
- 3d Imaging
- 3d Design and Modeling
- Animation and Collaboration tools
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to use | Lacks photorealistic objects |
| Quick modeling | |
| Integrates with other software |
Price: SketchUp’s pricing categories are divided into Go ($119), Pro ($349), and Studio ($749).
How to learn 3D Modeling?
By choosing beginner-friendly software and knowing the basics, you can start learning 3d modeling.
Check out this systematic approach to learning 3d modeling from the get-go.
Step 1: Choose an easy-to-understand software
3d software for modeling comes with all types of features and advantages, for beginner to advanced users. Find one with an industry reputation for an easy interface and beginner-friendly approaches. For example, Sketchup is easy to understand for new learners.
Step 2: Know the basics and practice regularly
Most software provides a guide on how to use it. Check that and practice the basics, learn something every day consistently.
Step 3: Skill up your learnings
Once you are used to the tools and their usage, it is time to upgrade your skills by delving into more resources.
- Software-provided documents: Most software offers comprehensive materials and video tutorials, and even has designated channels.
- Free tutorial platforms: YouTube, Ebooks, Blogs, and Podcasts by industry experts.
- Paid online learning platforms: Udemy, Coursera, Lynda, etc.
5 Best 3D Modeling Courses Online
| Platform | Why to choose | How to get started |
|---|---|---|
1. Lynda | Lynda is the online learning platform that LinkedIn offers. There are a variety of training courses to teach you simple shape intricating detail designing, polygonal modeling, and topology. You can learn about the usage of different industry-grade 3d software to acquire skills in high-quality models. | Download the Lynda app and log in with your LinkedIn ID. |
2. Autodesk | Autodesk is updating its learning resources with on-demand courses to help build 3d modeling skills. Learners will find tutorials and curated lists, hone skills from the core, and get ready to march forward in their careers. | Sign in to start learning. |
3. Udemy | Udemy is one of the popular e-learning and skill development platforms. From software to technique, Udemy has all types of courses available for beginners to advanced learners. So, you will find a wide variety of courses by industry experts within your budget. | Sign in to access both free and paid courses. |
4. 3DTraining | 3d training is an offering of interactive training programs to help enthusiast hone their skills. Apart from the course materials, the platform offers live support and guidelines directly from industry professionals and assigns learners to different on-demand projects with deadlines. So, students improve their skills. | Sign in with their website. |
5. Coursera | Similar to Udemy, Coursera offers diverse 3d skill development specialized courses. It offers high-quality content from industry experts, assisting learners in their professional journey by expanding their knowledge into industry insights. | Create an account with Coursera to access free courses. |
Step 4: Join communities
You have consumed much information. Now it’s time to know if you are on the right track, what trend is going on, and how your peer learners are doing.
Join communities to uplift and explore your skills. Search for your software-related group in Quora or Reddit to join your community.
What do you gain by connecting with communities?
- Learn from a wide range of professionals your knowledge
- Join with like-minded people and share your learnings
- Ask for solutions on any 3d tasks
- Get feedback for your performance
- Participate in challenges to hone your skills
- Build your network
How to Make 3D Models?
Here is a step-by-step process on how to make 3d models. In this article, we will be creating a model for handbags.
Step 1: Sample image collection
First, we need to collect reference images for the model we want to create.
Step 2: Choose DCC software
Set up reference images in Digital Content Creation (DCC) software. Here we’ll use Blender to proceed with our work.
Step 3: Create a basic shape
In this step, we need to create a basic shape. As you can see, we have placed the necessary images to generate the outline of the bag.
Step 4: Add details
Once we’re satisfied with the basic shape then, we’ll start adding details measurements, size, etc.
Step 5: Unwrap UV
With this process, we will cut the seams to flatten the mesh and create an organic shape. It will bring the realistic visual of the 3d model.
Step 6: Add texture
Now we’ll create textures for this bag. Here we will use Adobe Substance Painter 3D.
Step 7: Export texture
Now we’ll export textures and implement them into the model.
There you have it, the 3D modeling for the bag is ready.
Where to Outsource 3D Modeling Service?
Outsource professional 3d modeling and rendering services to fulfill your commercial needs from these 2 platforms, a. Agency, b. Freelancing Platforms.
Fast solutions, quality works, services-on-demand, and cost-effective solutions have made outsourcing easy to rely on services.
Check here to know which one aligns the most for your business.
- 3D Modeling Agency
Authentic 3D modeling service providers have a reliable in-house team. The members have diverse skill sets and are technologically advanced to meet the unique needs of clients.
When to choose a 3d Modeling Agency?
- Have high-volume, intricate, and complex projects.
- Looking for VR, architectural, gaming like specific category services
- Need to ensure high-quality, & precise work from industry experts
- Have a tight schedule to comply with marketing approaches
- The in-house team has a lot to deal with
Budget: Average pricing starts at $500 and varies based on projects. Agencies range from boutique to large full-service categories. You will always find companies that offer budget-friendly solutions.
- Freelance Platform
The freelancing platform is an affordable place to find all types of work from all levels of workers. Omitting out the risks, you can get quality work to meet your target. Some popular freelancing platforms are Fiverr, Upwork, Upwork, People Per Hour, etc.
When to choose freelancing platforms?
- Flexible work schedules
- On a tight-budget
- Need fastest works
Budget: Starts from as low as $10 to as much as high.
FAQs on 3D Modeling
What skills are necessary for 3D modeling?
Skills that are needed for 3d modeling are software literacy, modeling techniques, understanding texture, light & shades, rendering, and rigging, etc. These are operational skills. For providing 3d modeling services, skills like attention to detail, analytical skills, time and project management, and communication skills are mandatory.
Why is 3D modeling important?
3D modeling is important for establishing realistic, detailed visual representations of an object, character, environment, or scenario. As a fundamental step in designing, 3d modeling brings the concept to life and simplifies complicated topics, provides a comprehensive look through different angles, and makes cost-effective prototype solutions.
What are the four main methods of 3D modeling?
The 4 primary modeling methods are i. Polygonal is the process of creating 3d mesh by using polygons, ii. Subdivision is creating detail-oriented models for mesh models, iii. Sculpting is the technique to design & develop digital clay and iv. NURB/Curve is the technique to create shapes using mathematics.
Is CAD used for 3D modeling?
Yes, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) is used for 3d modeling. CAD is a system that provides different software and tools to devise well-functional, meticulous, and complicated structures, products, or shoes, especially used in industries where technical details are compulsory (product designing, architectural, and engineering industries).
Final Thought
3d modeling is a powerful technique that has transformed the design and development of all the relevant industries. As it allows flexibility to create 2d images or 3d videos, the latest advancements surely bring more sophisticated solutions.
