What is 3D Polygon Modeling?
Overview of How to Model in 3D Modeling Software Applications
Oct 13, 2008
3D Polygon modeling is the process of developing three-dimensional objects using a specialized software package designed for the purpose. These modeling applications provide an area of virtual space to work in, and a 3D model is developed in this space using rules of geometry measured by the Cartesian coordinates X, Y and Z to represent width, height and depth.
There are many 3D modeling applications available on the market today, catering for all levels of ability and budgets. The higher end of this market produces very complex programs that can take years of study to fully master. Other 3D modeling software consists of only the basic toolsets required to create 3D models, and are simpler to learn. 3D modeling software packages include:
- Wings 3D: A free 3D package that offers the basic modeling toolset. A good entry level application.
- Blender: An open-source 3D modeling package, Blender is free to use. Blender has many more features than Wings 3D, and should be considered an intermediate application, as the Blender learning curve is quite difficult to absorb for a beginner 3D modeler.
- Milkshape by Chumbalumsoft: Initially designed for modding the game Half-Life, Milkshape has become the 3D modeller of choice for many independent game developers. It retails at a very reasonable $35.
- Autodesk 3D Studio Max: A comprehensive modeling package aimed at professional studios rather than private individuals. The latest version of 3D Studio Max retails for $3495. It is possible to purchase earlier versions for a reduced price.
- Maxon Cinema 4D: Another accomplished modeling package, the latest release of Maxon's application is priced at $3695 for the intermediate software bundle.
- Autodesk Maya: 3D Studio Max's traditional rival, Maya is another premium modelling package. The latest release of Maya costs $4995.
This is far from a definitive list. Many other modeling applications are available, such as Silo, MudBox and ZBrush. There are also 3D modeling packages that deal exclusively with the human form, and provide existing 3D character models that can be modified and posed by the user. Such packages include:
- MakeHuman: An open-source program that allows limited modification of humanoid forms.
- Daz Studio by Daz Productions: A versatile free application that features a high level of modification options, and limited animation capabilities.
- SmithMicro Poser: Retailing at around $249.99, Poser is the middleware 3D modeler of choice for many professional 3D artists. Poser offers a more comprehensive toolset than Daz Studio and a more developed animation capability.
3D Modeling Glossary
Regardless of the software used, 3D modeling has its own glossary. When working in the 3D space of a modeling package, the following terms are the most commonly used to define the parts that make up a 3D polygon model:
- A single point in 3D space is a vertex. The plural of vertex is vertices.
- A line connecting 2 vertices is an edge.
- Three intersecting edges, comprising of 3 vertices creates a flat plane. This plane is called a triangle.
- A polygon is a roughly square-shaped plane that consists of two or more triangles.
- Connected polygons form the outline of the 3D model. This outline is known as a mesh or a wireframe.
- The outside of the mesh – the part of the model that will be viewable – usually has a texture applied to it through a process known as skinning. Textures are also called materials in some 3D modeling packages.
- The complete textured mesh can then be animated by rigging the model. This involves filling the interior space of the model with a skeleton comprised of jointed bones, and associating areas of the mesh with a specific bone. Much like controlling a puppet, a properly rigged mesh will respond to manipulation of its underlying skeleton.
Uses for 3D Polygon Models
3D models have many applications. These include:
- Photorealistic renders
- Low Poly Models in Video Games
- Use in the Television and Film Industry
Photorealistic Renders
Many professional artists use such software tools as Poser to pose a textured and lighted 3D model to create photorealistic renders than can be used in advertisements in print and on the web, as cover art for magazines and books or as works of art in and of themselves.
Low Poly Models in Video Games
The game market makes extensive use of 3D models. Unlike hyper-realistic renders such as those created by artists using Poser, games must render their 3D content in real-time. Thus, most games use low poly models – that is, a 3D model that has as few faces as possibly. Poser models may consist of many thousands of polygons. In contrast, a game model usually budgets for between 2000 and 4000 polygons for a detailed game character.
High-Poly Modeling in Film and Television
More advanced than either the photorealistic stills of the Poser artist or the low-poly modeling of the game artist, the incredibly lifelike animated characters found in many television adverts and programmes and in feature films such as Shrek, Toy Story and Beowulf all make full use of the extraordinary capabilities of premium modeling software applications running on top-end computer networks.
The creature effects in the Oscar-winning Pan's Labyrinth were achieved using Autodesk Maya. Polar Express was created using Maxon Cinema 4D. Autodesk 3D Studio Max has been used for effects in many film titles, such as the X-Men franchise, Tomb Raider, Con Air and Equilibrium.
3D Modeling Skills in Demand
3D modeling is a demanding discipline, covering a variety of mathematical and artistic abilities. However, there is a growing demand for skilled creators of 3D content in a vast variety of fields. As a hobby, it is vastly entertaining. As a career option, 3D polygon modeling can be very rewarding.
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