What is 3D modeling?
3D modeling is the process of producing a three-dimensional (3D) digital representation of any object or image. 3D modeling transforms the way people look at product design projects. While 2D still serves a purpose for floor plans and schematics, 3D modeling gives people an increased visual perception of the final product. With 2D rendering capabilities, 3D modelers can place their designs in real-life environments to provide a more realistic representation of how a product might interact with the real world.
3D modelers use 3D modeling software, which creates 3D representations by manipulating polygons, edges, and vertices in a simulated 3D space. Users can create and deform polygonal surfaces or scan real-world objects into a set of data points used to represent objects digitally.
Types of 3D modeling
While creative industries commonly use several advanced forms of 3D modeling, there are three basic types of 3D modeling that these advanced techniques are based on:
- Solid modeling: This type of modeling uses 3D shapes (cylinder, pyramid, cube, etc.), which act together like building blocks to create 3D objects. These shapes can be rotated, modified, clumped together, or manipulated in some way while remaining whole and solid from all angles.
- Wireframe modeling: This is typically used in cases where the surface is curved and complex. The basic building blocks used in solid modeling are too difficult to modify and manipulate into intricate configurations. Instead, wireframe modeling uses components such as lines, edges, and curves. Wireframe modeling shows all surfaces and internal components that may normally be hidden with other forms of 3D modeling as visible lines.
- Surface modeling: This method is more complex than solid and wireframe modeling. It helps create elaborate models that incorporate more detail, complex features, and organic shapes. The primary use case for surface modeling is to portray a 3D object as it is in the real world.
Benefits of 3D modeling
3D modeling has come a long way in terms of the design benefits it provides to creative industries and the visual benefits that customers of these industries can reap. Some of these benefits include:
- Creation of accurate visual aids: 3D visualizations offer accurate depictions of what the final product will look like, which is helpful when explaining projects to clients, investors, or team members who might not have the design skills or imagination to understand the outcome without a visual aid.
- Time saving: 3D modeling saves designers time, and it allows them to create models faster than they can with 2D modeling without sacrificing quality or accuracy.
- Help with marketing: Marketers can incorporate 3D visualizations into marketing materials to help customers learn about and interact with products even before they launch.
- Help with inspection: Designers can inspect every nook and cranny of 3D models, allowing them to spot and correct errors and weaknesses before creating the actual product.
- Efficiency: 3D models help designers and developers understand the most efficient way of building products, so they can create safe, functional products without wasting valuable time and materials.
Basic elements of 3D modeling
While no two 3D design projects are the same, most of them will incorporate the same essential elements, which include the following:
- Ideation: Before the modeling begins, the designer must discuss the project objectives with the team or client requesting the 3D model. Often a sketch is drawn to make sure both parties are on the same page. This helps the designer understand the requirements.
- Modeling: The basic geometry of an object is constructed using polygons. The shapes are then adjusted according to the desired outcome of the 3D model. Processes such as topology and retopology are also used to reduce the number of polygons to decrease the object's " weight. " A “lighter’” 3D model is more compatible with applications it may be used in, such as (virtual reality) VR, augmented reality (AR), or video games.
- Mapping and texturing: This is the process of overlaying a texture map on the 3D model. These overlays are usually made in 2D, meaning that they are just a flat color picture, so the designer has to make the texture look realistic if they want the resulting 3D model to look real.
- Rendering: While 3D rendering refers to a completely different technology and process, design projects often use rendering and modeling. Rendering is the process of taking 3D objects and creating lifelike visualizations. During this step, photo-realistic effects and lighting are added to the model.
- Post processing: This final stage involves modifying the final image to reveal more details. Filters, light effects, and color treatments may be used to improve the quality and make the image look more realistic
3D modeling best practices
3D modeling is not a simple skill to master, and 3D designers often spend years refining their skills. To keep improving as a designer, follow these best practices:
- Holistic thinking: Keeping in mind the bigger picture helps to understand how all the elements of the object will fit together. The details are important in 3D models and renderings, but the proportioning often makes an image appealing and realistic.
- Detail: Although detailing and texturing are very important in creating a realistic model, it is necessary to balance the detailing. Make sure to include big, medium, and tiny details.
- Reuse: Instead of starting from scratch each time, maximize efficiency by reusing as much of a mesh as possible. Meshes can be duplicated entirely, or a mirror modifier can be used to make something similar.
- Surface: One of the most important factors that determine the quality of a 3D model is how light interacts with the surface. Look out for surface imperfections in post processing, such as bumps, warped areas, or pinches.
3D modeling vs. 3D rendering
3D renderings can only be created after a 3D model has been created.
3D modeling is the creation of 3D objects by manipulating polygons, edges, and vertices in a simulated 3D space. The representation, called a 3D model, conveys an object’s shape, size, and texture. Once the model is created, 3D rendering produces a photorealistic image of the 3D model. During this stage, photo-realistic and lighting effects are added to simulate the object's appearance if placed in a real-world environment. 3D modeling and rendering are steps that designers take in the 3D visualization process.
Priya Patel
Priya is a Senior Research Analyst at G2 focusing on content management and design software. Priya leverages her background in market research to build subject matter expertise in the software space. Before moving back to Chicago in 2018, Priya lived in New Zealand for several years, where she studied at the University of Auckland and worked in consulting. In her free time, Priya enjoys being creative, whether it’s painting, cooking, or dancing.
