What is 3D Modelling?

3D models are used in film, gaming, architecture, product design and more. While you may expect to see 3D models in entertainment industries and virtual reality, you might be surprised to realise 3D models are used in many more industries.

Here are some common 3D modelling examples. Keep in mind, sometimes these models are so life-like, it can be hard to realise you’re seeing a rendered image in the first place.

1. Entertainment and media: 3D modelling is used extensively in VFX, video games and films and TV. It isn’t at all uncommon to see productions that are entirely created using 3D software.

2. Architecture and real estate: Architects and designers utilise 3D modelling to create detailed virtual representations of buildings, interiors and landscapes. These models are very useful in communicating the designer’s vision to prospective investors, clients and the public.

3. Product design and manufacturing: 3D modelling is an efficient and environmental-friendly way to develop prototypes, visualise product ideas and simulate functionality pre-production. Designers can refine ideas and make countless iterations before a product is finalised.

4. Automotive and aerospace industries: 3D modelling is used in both the design and testing of vehicles and their components and in the advertising and marketing of them. Many commercials of cars and airliners feature 3D generated imagery that looks so realistic it’s nearly impossible to tell they aren’t real camera footage. 3D allows for realistic simulations, which can be used in testing an idea or vehicle before it’s built.

5. Medical and healthcare: 3D modelling is utilised in medical imaging and surgical planning. Accurate recreations of organs, bones and tissues can be used to aid in diagnosis, treatment planning and aid medical research.

6. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR): 3D modelling is essential in creating immersive experiences. VR and AR have several applications and can be used across nearly any industry.

7. Education and training: 3D modelling is used in educational settings to teach concepts in a variety of subjects, from biology, to geography and even history. It allows students and professionals to interact with virtual models and simulations in safe, controlled environments. A great example of this is pilots flying in a flight simulator.

These steps provide a general overview of the 3D modelling process. The actual workflow you use may vary depending on software, artist preference or specific requirements of a project. Let’s dive in.

Whether it's brainstorming ideas or hopping right into the software and using basic shapes to block out an idea, spending some time in this phase is very useful to ensure that you are committed to an idea before you spend too much time on it.

In this stage, the actual 3D modelling takes place using your software of choice. If you are using polygonal modelling this will involve manipulating vertexes, edges and faces to build the mesh. Another approach is to use software like Substance 3D Modeler, which allows you to accurately sculpt digital clay with a variety of tools and sculpting methods.

Once the shape of a model is complete, textures and materials are applied to the model’s surface to give it a realistic or stlylised appearance. Textures can include colour, patterns and surface details like bumps and reflections. They can be hand-painted, procedurally generated or derived from HD photographs.

Once the model is complete and textured, the final step in the 3D modelling process is staging and rendering. Rendering involves generating high-quality image or sequence animations considering lighting, shading and other visual effects. This can be a computationally intensive process. Post-processing can also be used after the render to further enhance the final output.

When all the stages of 3D modelling are brought together, artists and designers can create amazing work. Here are some real-world examples from different industries, showcasing what 3D modelling can do.

1. Fashion. See how Hugo Boss uses 3D to enhance their processes.

2. Product design. See how Puma and INDG leverages Substance 3D apps and AR to help design amazing shoes.

3. Entertainment. This beautiful project, End of Summer, was created by talented artists from Adobe, showcasing what is possible using almost entirely Substance 3D tools.

Here are some tips to consider when engaging in 3D modelling:

1. Master the basics. Building a solid foundation in basic 3D modelling principles and learning how to efficiently use the tools available in your software is a necessity. Your models will be cleaner and your time will be more effective as well.

2. Learn keyboard shortcuts and workflow optimisations. 3D software can be very complex. There are a lot of tools and methods available to creators, so becoming comfortable with shortcuts will vastly increase your quality of life while creating. This will speed up your workflow, improve productivity and make the entire process feel more efficient.

3. Utilise references. Working with references is a great way to not only help plan and visualise a project, but also ensure that your 3D model is realistic, has accurate proportions, shapes and details. References provide a solid foundation and help maintain visual fidelity. Consider creating a mood board with multiple different references to encourage creativity and idea generation.

4. Explore different techniques. A good 3D artist is always learning. Continually practising your 3D skills and learning new tools and techniques will help you to grow as an artist and designer. Explore different techniques and software such as polygonal modelling or sculpting to help you to develop a more diverse skillset.