The 3D character modeling and design process may sound difficult to an untrained ear. However, with a bit of familiarization and learning the top tips for your company or business, you can expect to get the best results in no time.
Table of Contents
- 3D character modeling defined
- 3D modeling: how does it work?
- Importance of the 3D character modeling and design process
- What are the steps involved in the 3D character modeling and design process?
- How much does the 3D character modeling and design process cost?
- Hire expert 3D character artists from Cad Crowd and make your characters shine
3D character modeling defined
3D character modeling is one technique in the field of graphic design that develops a three-dimensional representation of an object or a surface. 3D design artists use software programs, initially starting with simple shapes and enriching them with additional details little by little. The artists also need to perform several complicated stages for them to achieve a convincing and flexible figure. Simply put, 3D character modeling starts with easy and plain sketches and finishes with more advanced detailing.
The process of 3D modeling results in the creation of an animation-ready digital object. It is an important procedure for character animation and special effects. 3D models are also a must-have for other applications that include but are not limited to illustration, commercial ads, video games, movies, engineering, and architecture.
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3D modeling: how does it work?
The process of 3D character modeling services begins with simple steps and progressively leads to complicacy. The 3D models wrought in high detail show up as primitive shapes such as a sphere or a cube. These shapes will then serve as the key elements to create a model. 3D artists use special digital tools to give this figure the desired outlines and shape. Patience is required when developing 3D models. The verticals must be placed with extra care to contour the models accurately.
The polygons compose the exterior part of the mesh. You can further subdivide this into several smaller shapes to achieve further details. The subdivisions are necessary if you plan to add animation to the 3D model. Additional polygons are also necessary to guarantee a seamless motion if there is any joint in the character mold that is a bit difficult to bend, like the knee or elbow. Different tools can also be used to speed up the process of 3D modeling.
Many programs also integrate the so-called mirroring method, where artists are allowed to develop a symmetrical model by working on a quarter or half of the object. After you develop the model, it is time for you to texture and paint the surface. You can use textures to add details to the surface. Doing so will also help the model to appear more complex than it is. This is an important method in video games wherein complex meshes may intrude or affect the entire gameplay.
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Importance of the 3D character modeling and design process
The rise and subsequent popularity of 3D technology brought about significant changes and greatly transformed the gaming industry and other fields. This technology makes creating detailed, unique, and realistic visual content possible. 3D technology also offers more benefits than its 2D counterpart, especially when using 3D character animation experts for developing cartoon characters, video games, and movies. The following are some of the top reasons why the 3D character modeling and design process is important for companies and businesses, including yours:
* Easy and simple adjustment
After the 3D model is completed, it will now be easily accessible for adjustments and additions, thanks to the advanced features of the modern software used. It means that updates can also be made quickly as and if needed.
* More flexible animation
You also wouldn’t encounter any difficulties controlling 3D characters because these are already modeled within a three-dimensional space. You don’t need to draw them again in different poses if you need to showcase a new or different movement.
* Realism
Every time you create a 3D character model, you can achieve different levels of detail, whether it is precise photography or just a simple sketch.
* Visual attractiveness
3D character models look more colorful, vibrant, and solid than simply using traditional 2D CAD drawing services. More importantly, you can even view the model from different angles if you need to do so.
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What are the steps involved in the 3D character modeling and design process?
A 3D character model should match and be in sync with the overall theme and environment of the game or setting. The development of this character is a critical aspect of the process, so 3D artists must follow several specific steps involved in the 3D character modeling and design process. Here is a quick overview of the steps in creating 3D characters, from design to modeling and final application.
1. Development of concept art
Concept art refers to the design of a character’s whole style and concept. To develop a design idea, the artist must use a concept that will encapsulate the significance of the character’s personality, including its appearance, behavior, background, habits, and other unique and different characteristics.
When designing concept art, the artist should look for several sources for creating the concept, inspiration for the character, study, and drafting of the character. Artists typically start with preparing a mood board and coming up with several sketches that will incorporate the character’s facial features, silhouette, and primary body. The artist can proceed to work on the colors after the design is completed.
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2. Character modeling
After developing the concept art, it is time to create the final figure. At this point, there are several modeling stages involved, and these are the following:
- Blocking
Blocking is the stage where the 3D rigging artist will block out the fundamental shape of the body and shape of the character model, such as the skeleton and muscular frame. The artist can also stylize the character, especially if one is familiar with human anatomy.
- Sculpting
3D Sculpting services is a technique that an artist uses to develop a 3D character with the help of digital material. This is important to provide photorealistic, hyper-realistic, and stylized 3D characters.
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- Retopology
An ideal retopology is required to achieve a precise 3D model. The specific number of polygons affects both the clarity and quality of the final 3D characters. The artist should align and organize these polygons precisely and locally to guarantee the proper function of the animation. Retopology aims to alter a high polygon model with a certain number of polygons. To put it simply, retopology is reducing the number of polygons in the 3D model.
- Unwrapping and Baking
This is now the time for you to use UV to unwrap and bake your 3D model. The artist usually needs to handle baking a model containing 30 or 50 different materials.
- Texturing
The texturing phase is when the 3D character modeling artist applies the color and surface elements to the character model. They will try to make sure that the model will match the real-world concept or prototype in every possible detail. This is because people might end up rejecting the feature if they find it non-realistic or wrong in any way.
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3. Character rigging and skinning
How do 3D character models move? This is where rigging enters the picture. This is the stage when the 3D rigging experts will add the joints to allow normal movements of the model. They will have to use a skeleton for the exact bends as the character moves. They will also put the character’s movement in different poses to make it look more realistic.
Rigging is followed by skinning. This phase will bind the geometric mesh of the 3D model to the rig. The appearance of the character during the performance will depend on its quality. The model will now be ready for the next step.
4. Character animation
Animation is the final step in the 3D character modeling and design process. This is the phase when the character finally comes to life, complete with facial expressions and body functions. Every single movement must showcase the personality of the model. The model’s movements should be natural and realistic and must evoke emotions in the players, whether happiness, compassion, or laughter. This is something that only top-of-the-line animation will be able to achieve.
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How much does the 3D character modeling and design process cost?
Several factors may affect the overall cost of the 3D character modeling and design process, and these include the following:
- Location of your 3D modeling artist or company
- Requirements to prepare for the animation
- The level of intricacy or complexity of the character
- Expertise or skill level of the modeler
- The specific type of preferred 3D model
Working with a professional and skilled 3D artist can make a big difference in bringing your 3D character models to life without breaking the bank.
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Hire expert 3D character artists from Cad Crowd and make your characters shine
Not all companies or businesses have the resources to deal with the 3D character and modeling design process from start to finish, especially during crunch periods. The good news is that you can entrust the process to the hands of professionals with the years of experience, skills, and expertise necessary to pull off the job and achieve the results you are looking for to ensure the success of your project. Contact Cad Crowd today for a free quote.
