Beginner's Guide to Hard Surface Modeling
Are you planning to create 3D models of cars, drones, androids, rifles, handguns, or swords? Then you will likely need to use hard surface modeling, which is an excellent choice for crafting inanimate objects with static surfaces. Our article guides you through the basics, including the most commonly used hard surface modeling techniques.
What is hard surface modeling?
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty details of crafting stunning hard surface designs, let’s start with the basics. What is hard surface modeling and what is its purpose?
Hard surface modeling is used to craft inanimate objects with firm, static surfaces. It is a 3D modeling technique extensively used in-game art, animation, product prototypes, and various other industries. Hard surface modeling enables the creation of 3D objects such as weapons, vehicles, buildings, and other everyday items.
What is the difference between organic hard surface modeling?
Newcomers in the 3D modeling community often struggle to differentiate between organic and hard surface modeling. While the term “organic modeling” suggests that any model of a living creature falls into that category, this is not entirely accurate. Let’s clear the air.
- Organic modeling is primarily used to create 3D models of animals, plants, humans, or fictional characters that have smooth curves, fewer sharp edges, and softer surfaces.
- Hard surface modeling is used for creating 3D models of objects with static and hard surfaces. Although a tree is organic, it would likely fall into this category.
The most popular hard surface modeling methods
Box modeling
Box modeling is one of the simplest yet most effective methods to create hard surface designs. It starts with a primitive initial item like a cube or cylinder, which is then sculpted into a more sophisticated 3D object.
Polygonal modeling
Polygonal modeling is an advanced 3D modeling technique frequently used to create both organic and hard surface objects. In simple terms, the process begins with a plane figure instead of a solid one. By the end, it can transform into a solid figure.
Model bashing (kitbashing)
Model bashing is a great way to generate new designs by combining already existing 3D items. Kitbashing is commonly used in animation, game art, and product design. It allows 3D artists to create mockups quickly, which can then be fine-tuned with more sophisticated methods.
Digital sculpting (3D sculpting)
Digital sculpting allows 3D artists to create organic and hard surface objects with high precision. Similar to how regular sculptors use clay to form the desired objects, 3D artists can use special software to generate stunning designs.
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FAQ
Who is a hard surface artist?
A hard surface artist is a 3D modeling expert who specializes in generating hard surface objects.
What are the characteristics of hard surface design?
Hard surface design focuses on static, hard surfaces.
What software is commonly used for hard surface design?
The most popular hard surface software includes:
- Blender,
- Alias,
- Moi 3D and
- CAD.
What industries use hard surface modeling?
Hard surface modeling is commonly used in:
- game art,
- product design,
- engineering design,
- medical design,
- jewelry design,
- animation and much more.
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