What is 3D Modelling?

3D modelling is the art of creating three-dimensional representations of objects or surfaces. These models are crafted using computer-based 3D modelling software, allowing precise control over an object’s size, shape, and texture. The process involves manipulating points, lines, and polygons within the software to form intricate 3D shapes.

How Does 3D Modelling Work?

At the core of a 3D model are vertices, which together form a mesh. These vertices can be adjusted to change the model’s shape. By using coordinate data, the software calculates the position of each point relative to a reference point. To start creating a 3D model, you typically begin with a basic shape, such as a cube or sphere, and then refine it to your desired form.

Common Uses of 3D Modelling

The versatility of 3D modelling makes it invaluable in various industries:

Game Development

In the world of video games, 3D modelling is a fundamental tool. It is used to create characters, environments, props, and entire game worlds. Immersion is key in gaming, and 3D modelling plays a crucial role in building immersive experiences, especially in virtual reality gaming.

3D Printing

3D printing relies on 3D models to bring physical objects to life. It is not limited to figurines and toys; 3D printing has revolutionized healthcare, enabling custom prosthetics, implants, and anatomically accurate surgical models.

Architecture

Architects leverage 3D modelling to visualize and design buildings in three dimensions, providing a more comprehensive understanding than traditional 2D plans. This technology can reveal structural issues that 2D drawings may miss.

Animation

3D models are the backbone of animation, allowing for seamless character movement and scene creation in movies and TV shows. Animators use 3D modelling extensively to bring their creations to life.

Product Design

Product designers utilize 3D modelling to create virtual prototypes before physical production. It enables error identification, size comparison, and 360-degree product presentations, making it easier to pitch ideas to stakeholders.

Types of 3D Modelling Software

To harness the power of 3D modelling, various software options are available:

Blender

Blender is a free and open-source 3D modelling software suitable for diverse applications, including visual effects, animation, and 3D printing. It supports a wide range of functionalities, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a popular drafting and design software used in both 2D and 3D projects, particularly favored by architects and engineers. It aids in preventing product failures before production.

Autodesk Maya

Considered the industry standard for animation, Autodesk Maya is a powerful yet complex software. While more expensive, it offers advanced features and is widely used by leading animation studios.

Choosing the Right 3D Modelling Software

The ideal software depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some software is more suitable for beginners, while others offer advanced capabilities. For newcomers to 3D modelling, Blender is highly recommended due to its user-friendly nature and wide range of applications.

Learning 3D Modelling

Getting started with 3D modelling is easier than ever, thanks to readily available resources online. Online courses are an excellent way to learn, providing step-by-step guidance and flexibility in your learning journey. Here are some recommended courses:

• Introduction to 3D Modelling
• Intermediate Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
• Introduction to 3D Animation Using Blender
• Introduction to Digital Manufacturing and 3D Printing
• Introduction to Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality
• Construct a Virtual Reality Experience
• How to Make and Sell Your First Immersive Experience

As you gain proficiency, you’ll have the opportunity to practice and develop your skills, ultimately creating captivating 3D models and engaging in various creative projects.

Is 3D Modelling Worth Learning?

Absolutely! The 3D modelling industry is dynamic, offering numerous creative and career opportunities. It is relevant in various sectors, including video game design, animation, architecture, product design, and more. With the growing popularity of the metaverse and continuous technological advancements, 3D modelling remains a promising field.

The Future of 3D Modelling

As we look ahead, the world of 3D modelling is poised for remarkable growth. The demand for skilled 3D modellers continues to rise as industries recognize the value of this technology. The metaverse, a fully three-dimensional virtual environment, is gaining traction and introducing new dimensions of possibilities. The 3D mapping and modelling market is projected to expand significantly between 2022 and 2027, emphasizing the industry’s importance and potential.

Career Opportunities in 3D Modelling

Acquiring 3D modelling skills opens doors to a wide array of exciting career opportunities. Some of the roles you can aspire to include:

• Video Game Designer: Dive into the world of gaming, creating immersive experiences and captivating gameplay.
• Animator: Bring characters and scenes to life in movies, TV shows, and special effects.
• Architectural Designer: Transform architectural planning by visualizing structures in 3D, enhancing presentations, and improving designs.
• Character Artist: Craft unique characters and models for various media, from video games to animation.

Final Thoughts

3D modelling is an exciting and rapidly evolving domain that opens doors to creativity and innovation. We hope this article has expanded your knowledge and sparked your interest in mastering this versatile skill. If you’re eager to embark on your 3D modelling journey, consider enrolling in one of the recommended courses mentioned above and start creating your own 3D masterpieces today!

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Increased use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR)

One of the biggest trends in 3D modeling is the use of virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) technologies. As these technologies continue to evolve, they are becoming more accessible and affordable, and are expected to contribute to a significant increase in demand for 3D content. Virtual reality and AR applications in gaming, entertainment, and education are just the tip of the iceberg. With virtual reality and augmented reality, designers can create immersive, interactive 3D environments that enable better collaboration. Companies such as Gravity Sketch already allow customers to “express their ideas in real time, at any scale… using a wide range of digital tools in virtual reality.”

Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)

Another trend that is expected to shape the future of 3D modeling is the use of AI and machine learning. With these technologies, 3D models can be created faster, making 3D pipelines more efficient and allowing artists to focus on the most creative parts. Artificial intelligence and machine learning can also be used to analyze and optimize 3D models, which can improve the accuracy and efficiency of the design process. Companies such as Kaedim already allow users to upload input images and generate a 3D model to use as a starting point in minutes using ML algorithms. Additionally, companies like G3DAI and Dreamfusion are working on 3D models created by artificial intelligence from textual cues.

Wider use of 3D modeling in various industries

3D modeling is already being used in a variety of industries, including gaming, architecture, engineering, and product design. All fingers are pointing to it becoming more widespread in other industries as well. For example, in the medical field, 3D modeling can be used to accurately simulate medical procedures, which can improve patient outcomes.

In the gaming industry, 3D modeling can be used to create more realistic and immersive virtual worlds. Gaming is currently the largest entertainment industry, and this is only expected to grow. In the future, as young people grow up and become more involved in digital worlds, we will see more and more interaction with gaming metaverse. As a result, the introduction of 3D user-generated content will give users the opportunity to populate and contribute to metaverse worlds with assets and characters.

Increased focus on sustainability

With the growing awareness of the importance of sustainability, the 3D modeling industry is expected to focus more on creating environmentally friendly models. This may include designing models that use renewable energy sources or creating models made from sustainable materials. Additionally, 3D modeling can be used to create models that are more energy efficient and reduce waste, which can help reduce the environmental impact of the design process.

Of course, these are just predictions about the future of 3D modeling based on current trends. The industry is constantly evolving, and it is difficult to predict exactly where it will go. But one thing is for sure: 3D modeling will continue to be an important and sought-after skill for years to come.

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Step 1. Immerse yourself in the world of 3D graphics

In order to start building a career as a 3D artist, you first need to get to know the world of CGI and understand its specifics. We recommend starting with surfing thematic websites and online communities. Among the resources you can find Artstation, CGarchitect, Behance, and render.ru among the domestic ones. There you can see the works of the best 3D artists, read discussions and comments. It is also useful to watch thematic channels that cover 3D graphics news, plugin reviews, etc. Understanding what the CG world is all about will help you move on to the next steps.

Step 2. Choosing a direction

Among the many areas of application of 3D graphics, a beginner should choose the one that is most to his liking. This way, you can start building a career as a 3D artist in a specific field.

3D visualization is also in demand in medicine, science, industrial production, and other areas where innovative developments need to be demonstrated.

Step 3. Choosing a specialization

After choosing a direction, the conversation about how to start a career as a 3D artist becomes more substantive: you need to decide on a specialization. The main areas are 3D modeling and 3D visualization.

3D modelers create three-dimensional models of real or fictional objects, from jewelry to cartoon characters to spaceships.

3D visualizers create beautiful three-dimensional images using ready-made models. These specialists are especially in demand in architectural design to visualize interior and exterior projects. With the proper level of skill of a 3D artist, it is almost impossible to distinguish a rendering from a photo.

Over time, you can master both specializations and become a 3D generalist – a generalist with skills in various areas of three-dimensional graphics. Or you can go into a narrow niche and become a master in a specific area: animation, texturing, environment creation, etc.

Step 4. Choosing the software

In order to start a career in CGI, you need to decide on the software to work with. Beginners usually choose Autodesk 3ds Max, Maya, Blender, or ZBrush.

Autodesk 3ds Max is usually used for 3D modeling and visualization of architectural objects and game characters. This software is also used for animation and visual effects. The program has powerful tools that allow you to cope with almost any task of a 3D artist. That is why beginners often choose 3ds Max to start their career.

ZBrush is the absolute leader in 3D sculpting. The program is designed to create detailed models of people, animals, plants, and other organisms.

Step 5. Choosing a training format

So, we have almost completely figured out how to start a career as a 3D artist. But there is one more important step left: choosing a training format. There are three options:

• self-study:
• studying at offline or online courses several times a week;
• intensive courses with full immersion.

Self-study can take from several months to 2-3 years. In this case, there is a risk of getting confused and not starting a career as a 3D artist at all.

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1. Modeling or creation of model geometry

This is the creation of a three-dimensional geometric model, without taking into account the physical properties of the object. The techniques used are:

• extrusion;
• modifiers;
• polygonal modeling;
• rotation.

2. texturing of the object

The level of realism of the future model directly depends on the choice of materials when creating textures. Professional programs for working with three-dimensional graphics are practically unlimited in the possibilities for creating a realistic picture.

3. Setting the light and observation point

One of the most difficult stages in the creation of 3D-model. After all, it is from the choice of the tone of light, the level of brightness, sharpness and depth of shadows directly depends on the realistic perception of the image. In addition, it is necessary to choose a point of observation of the object. It can be a bird’s-eye view or scaling the space to achieve the effect of presence in it – by choosing a view of the object from the height of human height.

4. 3D visualization or rendering

The final stage of 3D-modeling. It consists in detailing the display settings of the 3D-model. That is, adding graphic special effects, such as glare, fog, glow, etc. In the case of video rendering, the exact parameters of 3D animation of characters, details, landscapes, etc. are determined. (timing of color gradients, glow, etc.).

At the same stage visualization settings are detailed: the required number of frames per second and the extension of the final video are selected (e.g. DivX, AVI, Cinepak, Indeo, MPEG-1, MPEG-4, MPEG-2, WMV, etc.). If a two-dimensional raster image is required, the format and resolution of the image is determined, mainly JPEG, TIFF or RAW.

5. Postproduction

Processing of captured images and video using media editors – Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premier Pro (or Final Cut Pro/Sony Vegas), GarageBand, Imovie, Adobe After Effects Pro, Adobe Illustrator, Samplitude, SoundForge, Wavelab and others.

Post-production consists in giving media files original visual effects, the purpose of which is to excite the mind of the potential consumer: to impress, arouse interest and be remembered for a long time!

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One of the simplest rendering methods. It does not take into account additional visual effects (for example, color and shadow of the object relative to the observation point).

Raking

A 3D model is viewed from a specific, predetermined point – from a human height, bird’s-eye view, etc. From the observation point rays are directed, which determine the light shades of the object when it is viewed in the usual 2D format.

Ray tracing

This method of rendering implies that, when hitting the surface, the ray is divided into three components: reflected, shadow and refracted. This actually forms the color of the pixel. In addition, the number of separations directly affects the realism of the image.

Path tracing

One of the most complex methods of 3D-visualization. When using this method of 3D-rendering, the spread of light rays is maximally approximated to the physical laws of light propagation. This is what provides high realism of the final image. It is worth noting that this method is resource-intensive.

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Three-dimensional graphics is indispensable for the presentation of a future product. In order to proceed to production it is necessary to draw and then create a 3D-model of the object. And, already on the basis of 3D-model, with the help of rapid prototyping technologies (3D printing, milling, casting silicone molds, etc.), a realistic prototype (sample) of the future product is created.

After rendering (3D visualization), the resulting image can be used in the development of packaging design or in the creation of outdoor advertising, POS-materials and exhibition stand design.

Urban planning

With the help of 3D graphics, the most realistic modeling of urban architecture and landscapes is achieved – with minimal costs. Visualization of the architecture of buildings and landscape design allows investors and architects to feel the effect of presence in the designed space. That allows to objectively assess the advantages of the project and eliminate the disadvantages.

Industry

Modern production is impossible to imagine without pre-production modeling of products. With the emergence of 3D-technologies, manufacturers have the opportunity to significantly save materials and reduce the financial costs of engineering design. With the help of 3D modeling graphic designers create three-dimensional images of parts and objects, which can later be used to create molds and prototypes of the object.

Computer games

3D technology in the creation of computer games has been used for more than a decade. In professional programs experienced specialists manually draw three-dimensional landscapes, models of heroes, animate the created 3D-objects and characters, as well as create concept-art (concept-designs).

Cinematography

The entire modern film industry is focused on 3D movies. For such filming, special cameras capable of shooting in 3D are used. In addition, with the help of three-dimensional graphics for the movie industry, separate objects and complete landscapes are created.

Architecture and interior design

The technology of 3d-modeling in architecture has long proven to be the best. Today, the creation of a three-dimensional model of the building is an indispensable attribute of design. On the basis of 3d model can create a prototype of the building. Moreover, as a prototype, repeating only the general outlines of the building, and a detailed prefabricated model of the future structure.

As for interior design, then, with the help of 3d-modeling technology, the customer can see how it will look like his home or office space after the renovation.

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Thus, 3D modeling and visualization services are provided when:

• it is necessary to evaluate physical and technical features of the product even before its creation in its original size, material and configuration;
• it is necessary to create a 3D model of the future interior.

In such cases you will definitely have to resort to the services of specialists in the field of 3d-modeling and visualization.

3D-models are an integral part of high-quality presentations and technical documentation, as well as the basis for creating a prototype of the product. The peculiarity of our company is the possibility of carrying out a full cycle of work to create a realistic 3D-object: from modeling to prototyping. Since all the work can be done in a complex, it significantly reduces the time and costs of searching for contractors and setting new technical tasks.

If it is a product, we will help you to release its trial series and set up further production, small batch or industrial scale.

Definition of the terms “3D-modeling” and “visualization”

Three-dimensional graphics or 3D-modeling – computer graphics, which combines techniques and tools necessary to create three-dimensional objects in tecdimensional space.

The techniques should be understood as methods of forming a three-dimensional graphical object – calculation of its parameters, drawing a “skeleton” or a volumetric non-detailed shape; extrusion, building up and cutting out parts, etc.

And under tools – professional programs for 3D-modeling. First of all – SolidWork, ProEngineering, 3DMAX, as well as some other programs for volumetric visualization of objects and space.

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