3D modelling is utilized in so many areas that most of us come into contact with it without even realizing it. It is used in almost every aspect of art and design and is a craft that is well worth studying if you want to make some money.

3D modelling is a term used to describe the creation of an image on a computer that will appear 3D when viewed via a 2D medium. For example, it is likely that you will have watched an animation at the cinema or on the television. The medium which you are viewing the pictures are 2D but they appear 3D. Characters like Shrek are created on computer and through 3D mapping software, the artist is able to give the 3D structure a texture such as skin and hair.

Graphic design software has come a long way in recent years has helped make the work of designers easier. It is used by architects, engineers and designers who need visual prototypes. Modelling programs such as CAD are electronic versions of traditional skills and are relatively easy to learn. Using these design programs makes the production of models and prototypes much quicker and cheaper for designers.

Computerized custom modelling involves creating a wire like frame on the computer to start with. The detail is then applied to the frame until it appears like the desired object. Because it is a 3D drawing, it can be rotated and viewed from different angles. For example, an architect may create the frame work of his building to provide the overall shape.

After the shape is made the designer then creates the surface which in the case of an architect might include stone work, paint work, door and windows etc. Once completed the architects design can be viewed from every angle such as back view, front view and top view. Each angle may then be printed out for the customer or a model table size model could be built from the information on the computer.

Very often the detail on the framework is achieved by surface mapping and is created through photography. The artist will use photographs of his desired texture to superimpose onto his already drawn structure which he may have created using any type of subsurface software. An artist can thus use a photograph of a real person and map it piece by piece onto the structure to create an image in three dimensions that looks like the real person.

It is not just in the characters and prototype objects that utilize this type of technology. CGI environments are also created in a similar way through the use of geophysical software and geological software. When you watch movies or video games you will see the characters supposedly moving through terrain. They may be in a recognisable surrounding such as a desert or a forest or in a completely fictional one such as another planet or a futuristic time.

There are many 3D modelling packages to choose from and they vary in cost from hundreds of dollars to completely free of charge. Some of the top brands preferred by design professionals include 3D Max and Maya. Visual artists may opt for programs such as Daz and Bryce. It is quite easy and inexpensive to learn to use some of these programs as there are a lot of online tutorials created by enthusiasts you can use free of charge.

Author Bio: 3d modelling that is used in the worlds largest and most successful energy companies.

Category: Computers and Technology
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