3D modeling is the art of bringing imagination to life, turning ideas into digital objects that shine in games, films, and beyond. 3D modeling techniques are the key to doing so perfectly!
Regardless of the platform or the design’s content, the right 3D modeling techniques can make all the difference.
So, what are some of the best techniques used by every top-notch 3D modeling studio for creating precise and high-quality 3D models?
Read on as we explore some of the most popular 3D modeling techniques for producing stunning 3D models – from manipulating traditional geometry to using cutting-edge simulations, and discuss how you can use them to bring your designs to life. Let’s dive in!
What is 3D Modeling?
Every 3D object seen in a 3D animation is composed of a 3D mesh, which can be constructed in several different ways.
3D modeling is the process of producing mesh objects in 3D modeling software. These objects, which will be used as components of the 3D environment we’re attempting to construct, are made based on earlier designs or real-world observations.
As you know, a 3D model can be the final product of a 3D animation pipeline.
A modeling artist’s responsibility is to accurately reproduce these objects’ geometry in a 3D modeling environment. 3D models must be tuned for a variety of movement-related malformations; otherwise, they would appear quite strange.
In the following, we will discuss each promising technique in detail.
Box Modeling
Box modeling starts with a simple shape, like a cube or sphere, and refines it using tools like extrusion, loop cuts, and beveling.
To build our item, we start with a base shape and use low-polygon-count shapes.
Since we can individually control faces, edges, and vertices, this method of modeling is extremely mechanical.
With box modeling, the focus is on manipulating entire shapes and more substantial chunks of an item at once.
Using a technique called a subdivision surface, we may add additional geometry between the edges, vertices, and faces that we can alter using conventional modeling tools. The geometry we are in control of acts as a cage to mold the divided form of our object.
- Pros: Precise, efficient, great for clean topology.
- Cons: Less intuitive for organic shapes.
Polygon Modeling
Polygon modeling builds from a single vertex or flat shape, gradually adding detail through edge and vertex manipulation. It’s similar to box modeling but focuses on finer control, often for semi-organic hard-surface objects like statues or tools.
Similar to box modeling, polygon modeling frequently highlights the use of quads, since many tools are made to operate in a quad topology.
This polygon-modeled object that we produced may be considered a hard surface. or have certain organic characteristics. For instance, it may be a statue or architectural decorations.
Although we use them differently, the tools used for box modeling and polygon modeling are essentially the same.
Here, as well, the geometry of the item is frequently smoothed with a subdivision surface.
- Pros: Flexible for detailed hard surfaces.
- Cons: Time-intensive for complex organic forms.
NURBS and Curve Modeling
NURBS stands for non-uniform rational B-spline. We have an acronym for a reason. We transition to an entirely different type of modeling using this style of modeling.
Using control points, we generate curved surfaces that can be manipulated, creating incredibly smooth curved surfaces.
Engineering and CAD-like tools are the main applications for this form of modeling. Not so much regarding the artistic aspect of 3D and VFX.
Consider printing something in three dimensions. In this situation, scaling up a polygon model that we built using the box or polygon modeling would be strange.
Contrarily, when using NURBS, the curves will remain smooth regardless of the model’s scale.
Tools that open, close, or construct a new curve and connect two existing curves may be available to us.
However, we also have tools like rotating, scaling, and manipulating extremely comparable control points.
Digital 3D Sculpting
Sculpting is where art meets instinct, using digital brushes to mold geometry like clay. It’s ideal for organic forms, such as characters, creatures, or plants.
Digital 3D sculpting returns us to the more traditionally creative side of 3D modeling, apart from the technical component. Vertices, faces, and edges are used in sculpture precisely the way they are in box modeling and polygon modeling.
To distinguish the shaping process from the more technical aspects of thinking about the specific pieces, we utilize sculpting.
Sculpting is typically employed for creating characters, animals, or other living things. However, it can also be utilized to sculpt fine details that are difficult to achieve with conventional box and polygon modeling.
Through various remesh methods, we can sometimes automatically create a better mesh by applying a new mesh on top of the surface of the item.
Retopology is a procedure that frequently requires us to reconstruct the mesh by hand on top of the sculpted object.
Dynamic topology dynamically divides the mesh into triangles as we paint. By doing it in this manner, the geometry will change as we continue to carve.
Dynamic topology (e.g., Blender’s Dyntopo) adjusts geometry as you sculpt, while retopology optimizes high-poly results for animation.
- Pros: Intuitive, great for organic details.
- Cons: High polycounts need retopology.
Photogrammetry
Another unique method of creating 3D models is photogrammetry, which means it turns photos into 3D models by analyzing multiple images of an object.
Using a camera, we picture an object numerous times while using this technique, trying to make sure the lighting is as even as possible. We then input these photos into software, which decodes them and creates a 3D model of the thing.
There are clear benefits and drawbacks to this technique.
We obtain real-world data; therefore, anything we produce is obligated to resemble reality.
We frequently build UV Maps and textures as part of the process, saving us time in those areas as well.
However, the mesh must be revised, either through remeshing or retopology.
This implies that the UV Map may also need to be recreated.
Since the camera will capture the subject-object and its surroundings, there will also be a significant amount of cleanup required.
- Pros: Realistic, time-saving for textures.
- Cons: Requires physical objects and cleanup.
Simulation-Based Modeling
Simulations create models through computed interactions and come in a wide variety.
Here are a few of them:
- Physics Simulation
- Cloth Simulation
- Smoke and Fire Simulation
- Liquids Simulation
When we simulate something, we set up a scenario with many elements that will eventually interact with one another.
For each frame, for which we run the simulation, the computer estimates how objects will move and what will happen.
The outcome can then be used to produce animation as well as scenes or objects that are created through simulation as opposed to manual input from other modeling techniques.
Imagine making a wave that would splash against a rock. The rock can be modeled or created using photogrammetry.
However, for modeling the wave, you can run a simulation and have the water splash on the rock by itself, giving it the shape it needs based on variables, such as the angle at which the wave hits the rock, size, velocity, and so on.
Compared to NURBS, simulations lean far more toward VFX. However, as it may be used to build or deform objects, we can still classify it as a modeling technique.
- Pros: Automates dynamic effects.
- Cons: Highly technical, parameter-heavy.
Procedural Modeling
Procedural modeling generates assets algorithmically, saving time on repetitive tasks. It’s a game-changer for creating complex objects or environments efficiently.
This technique will be divided into two categories of modeling:
Tool-Based Procedural Modeling
This subdivision is based on a tool that is intended to procedurally produce a number of previously developed objects. This technique is ideal for large-scale environments.
For instance, we might have a generator for the building. Then, we could enter several factors, such as the number of stories, the ceiling height, and the type of roof form. The program is then repeated some times, producing a fresh model that satisfies our requirements each time.
Tools like Blender’s Geometry Nodes or Houdini generate assets based on parameters, like building generators that tweak stories or roof types.
Artists can create custom tools for specific models, ensuring variation with minimal manual work.
Shader-Based Procedural Modeling
This style is strongly related to shading. An output from a shader, called displacement, allows us to alter a simple primitive like a sphere or a plane using mathematical formulas to create a more complicated object or surface.
Shaders like displacement or vector displacement transform simple geometry into complex forms, like trees, using math.
This method leverages rendering to add detail without heavy geometry. It’s growing with tools like Unreal’s Nanite, blending modeling and shading.
- Pros: Fast, reusable, highly customizable.
- Cons: Steep learning curve for tool creation.
Boolean Modeling Techniques
Boolean modeling shapes objects by combining or subtracting basic forms, offering a quick way to create complex geometry.
We begin with a model and remove portions of it or add new components to it to produce a new shape.
Difference, Union, and Intersect Operators
Boolean operations manipulate shapes to craft intricate designs efficiently, often using basic primitives like cubes or cylinders. Each operator serves a distinct purpose:
- Difference: Subtracts one shape’s volume from another, ideal for carving features like windows or holes in a model.
It’s the most commonly used operator due to its versatility in cutting precise shapes. - Union: Combines multiple shapes into a single, unified mesh. This is useful for merging components, like fusing a sphere and a cube to form a complex object, such as a sci-fi gadget.
- Intersect: Keeps only the overlapping volume between two shapes, creating a new form from their shared space.
For instance, intersecting two spheres can produce a lens-like shape, useful for stylized props or organic forms.
These operations, available in tools like Blender or Maya, allow rapid prototyping but often result in messy topology, requiring cleanup for animation or rendering.
Combining Boolean with Box Modeling
Box modeling creates base shapes, which boolean operations then refine by adding or subtracting details.
For example, a box-modeled building can have windows cut using the difference operator or decorative elements added via union.
This hybrid approach speeds up workflows for hard-surface modeling assets but may need manual topology fixes to ensure smooth edges and animation compatibility.
- Pros: Quick for complex shapes, beginner-friendly.
- Cons: Can create messy topology, requiring cleanup.
Kitbashing in 3D Modeling
Kitbashing is the art of assembling pre-made components to build detailed models, perfect for rapid prototyping.
What Is Kitbashing?
In this different kind of modeling, we start with a kit of components and then combine them to create more intricate models. Or, we might utilize kitbashing to add details to something that was created using another kind of modeling.
Artists use libraries of parts to construct complex assets, like sci-fi vehicles or fantasy creatures. It’s common in hard-surface modeling and speeds up detailing without starting from scratch.
The best way to detail a scene is via kitbashing. When making products with a hard surface, kitbashing is also highly prevalent.
With no requirement for a complete representation of what the finished object would look like, it enables us to investigate how various elements might fit together.
Visual Balance in Kitbashed Scenes
The proportion of high-frequency, middle-frequency, and low-frequency information should be considered during kitbashing.
Cluster intricate parts (e.g., robot joints) in focal areas, while simpler elements fill backgrounds. This creates visually appealing scenes, as seen in films or games with detailed props.
This holds true for both models of organic and hard surfaces.
For instance, a hypothetical robot’s head or another focal point might have more detail, and a forest might have a different distribution of plants, trees, and mushrooms depending on where each one would grow most successfully.
While some are dispersed equally around the picture, others are grouped or concentrated in one particular region of your animation storyboard.
- Pros: Fast, creative, detail-rich.
- Cons: Relies on quality part libraries.
Modular Modeling in 3D Design
Although not precisely a modeling technique, this is a useful exercise. It is a good idea to keep modularity in mind when designing 3D components.
Modular modeling builds reusable components to streamline large-scale designs, enhancing efficiency.
Reusing Components for Efficiency
By creating interchangeable parts, like wall segments or furniture, that fit together seamlessly, you can significantly reduce modeling time and ensure consistency across assets.
For example, when designing a cityscape, we might need to model a number of comparable buildings. In that case, modularity should be considered in order to reuse some components from one building to another.
How Modular Assets Speed Up Cityscapes and Game Levels
For cityscapes or game levels, modular assets like windows, doors, or street elements allow rapid assembly of varied environments.
Games like Cyberpunk 2077 use modularity to build sprawling cities efficiently, tweaking parts for visual diversity.
- Pros: Time-saving, scalable.
- Cons: Can feel repetitive without variation.
Real-World Applications of 3D Modeling
3D modeling has been a game-changer across different industries by changing how we design, visualize, and create.
From immersive entertainment to cutting-edge technology, its versatility drives innovation and creativity.
Gaming, Movies, and Engineering
- Gaming: The gaming industry relies on 3D modeling for real-time assets, from characters to sprawling environments.
Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild use low-poly models optimized for performance. Techniques like sculpting and kitbashing add detail to heroes or enemies, while modular modeling builds vast worlds efficiently.
- Movies: In films like Avatar or Jurassic World, high-detail 3D models create breathtaking creatures, environments, and effects.
Sculpting creates lifelike dinosaurs, while simulations animate dynamic elements like water or explosions. These models prioritize visual quality over performance, often using high-poly meshes for cinematic renders.
- Engineering: NURBS and precise modeling techniques shine in engineering, particularly in automotive, aerospace, and product design.
Car manufacturers use NURBS for smooth, accurate surfaces in prototypes, ensuring functional designs for production. In aerospace, models simulate aerodynamics for planes or spacecraft.
- Additional Applications: Beyond these core industries, 3D modeling impacts architecture, where detailed renders visualize buildings before construction.
In medical visualization, models simulate anatomy for training or prosthetic design.
Even fashion leverages 3D modeling for virtual try-ons and digital runways.
From AR/VR to Advertising
- Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): 3D modeling creates immersive worlds for VR games like Half-Life: Alyx or AR apps like Pokémon GO.
Low-poly models ensure smooth performance on VR headsets, while detailed texturing enhance realism. In AR, models power interactive product demos, like visualizing furniture in a room via IKEA’s app.
- Advertising: 3D modeling elevates commercials with photorealistic visuals.
For example, animated ads for sneakers use high-detail models to highlight textures and lighting to captivate audiences.
Modeling ensures products pop with lifelike accuracy, driving consumer engagement.
What Does a 3D Modeler Do?
As Christy Turlington says, modeling is a profession where your worth is tied up with looks!
The need for 3D character design is high since studios and small businesses place a lot of emphasis on the appearance of characters.
3D modeler is one of the most crucial and in-demand jobs, and to be honest, the competition in this field is fierce because there are so many talented artists.
However, this should not deter you from pursuing it if this is what you want to do.
Environment Artists
One of the most popular 3D careers that can be found interesting is environment art because it is just enjoyable to be a part of.
Environment artists collaborate directly with level designers, which means shaping the level or sequence that the studio will develop for outdoor backdrops, background art, and visuals for movies and video games.
In short, you will be building worlds that people may enter, which is fantastic, to say the least.
3D Asset Modeling
One of the most sought-after careers in 3D modeling is 3D asset modeling.
As developing 3D assets is regarded as a complementary yet essential duty for all projects, this type of artist forgoes freelancing or contract work in favor of working in studios full-time or even permanently.
Whatever your specialty, you will be required to design a broad variety of items and things, including furniture, vehicles, weapons, and more. In general, these artists produce all the props for films, animations, and video games.
Architectural Visualization
For those who are interested, working as 3D artists, or more specifically, visualization artists, can be quite enjoyable.
These individuals collaborate closely with architects, which requires them to interpret blueprints and designs for buildings as well as those for homes and interiors, to visualize plans for clients before their execution and construction.
3D Printing
Despite being a relatively new field, 3D printing is unexpectedly a booming business, with companies popping up all over to provide customers with a wide range of printing services.
If you’re wondering what a 3D modeler does, they generate 3D models, sort of operate the printers by tweaking and optimizing 3D products and things for the devices, and produce excellent 3D-printed creations quickly.
Let Pixune Studios Do It for You!
If you need help or more resources to complete your modeling projects, you can contact us at Pixune!
Whether you’re looking for 2D or 3D animation services, we will be happy to turn your thoughts and concepts into detailed and gorgeous assets that you can use and reuse.
To discuss your project and how we might cooperate on it, be sure to keep in touch with us at Pixune Studios!
Final Words
3D modeling techniques are essential in order to create realistic and attractive 3D images.
With the right techniques, you can craft amazing digital scenes and objects that will appeal to viewers.
By following our tips on choosing an appropriate program, selecting a subject, familiarizing yourself with important tools, creating basic shapes, and refining your models for detail, anyone can successfully master the art of 3D modeling.
Don’t be afraid to give it a try – with practice comes perfection! If you get any practical technique not mentioned in this article, the comment section is all yours.
