6/29/25, 10:39 AM 3D Modeling and Animation; Process & Techniques + video

3D ANIMATION

What is 3D Modeling in Animation and

How Should We Start the Workflow?

03
Apr

Table of Contents
What is the 3D modeling process?
Cartoon modeling in a professional scope vs personal projects
6 of the most common 3D modeling techniques in the animation industry
1. Digital Sculpting
2. Boolean modeling
3. Laser Scanning
4. Box modeling
5. SubD Modelling
6. NURBS Modeling
What does a 3D modeler do in a 3D animation studio?
What is the 3D Modeling Workflow?
What is the best 3D model animation software?
Best 3D modeling software in Entertainment Industry
Best 3D modeling software in Architectural & product visualization

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Law & medical

Wrap-up

3.2
Article Rating

3D modeling

3D Animation Pipeline

 
Pre-Production

Production

1 3D layout

2 3D modeling

3 3D texturing

4 3D rigging

5 3D animation (in progress)

6 Vfx in 3D

7 Lighting

8 Rendering

 Post Production

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After the 3D layout is created, we step into 3D modeling the characters, props, and
environments. Why? Because everything that’s going to appear in a 3D animation has
to be created, or “modeled”. A 3D model is a surface representation of an object
created in a 3D environment like 3D software.
Creating a 3D model is probably the starting point for most animation artists and an
essential part of the 3D animation production pipeline. Modeling requires careful
observation, manipulation, and correction of 3D objects through different attributes of
the software. Mastering this skill needs practice in various subject areas such as
anatomy.

Moreover, working with 3D modeling software can be frustrating at times; because

what the user experiences in most of them is not like any prior real-world experience
or other common software people use in their everyday lives.

Now, let’s take a closer look at 3D modeling but before that, take a look at the
following video to get see how 3D modeling works in fx and simulation:

0:30 / 0:30

What is the 3D modeling process?

Every 3D object that is displayed in a 3D animation is made up of a 3D mesh that can
be created using a wide range of techniques. Simply put, the process of creating
mesh objects in 3D software is called 3D modeling. These objects are created based
on previous designs or real-world observations and will be used as the elements of the
3D environment we’re trying to create.

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The 3D modeling process starts with the material prepared in the design component
of the animation pipeline; in which the shape of each object is portrayed in detail. The
design data consists mostly of drawings and sometimes sculptures as well. The job of
a modeling artist is to recreate the geometry of these objects in a 3D modeling
environment.

In order to be used in a 3D animated video, 3D models need to look pleasing. They

also have to be functional and properly fit into the pipeline; meaning their creation
should be feasible with the resources at hand.

The animation is all about movements and portraying these movements will require
deformities in the objects. Contrary to 2D animation, this can be quite challenging in a
3D animation. In fact, 3D models must be optimized for a wide range of deformities
caused by movement; if not, they would look extremely odd.

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Cartoon modeling in a professional scope vs

personal projects
The process of modeling cartoon characters in a professional production is different
from when it is done for a personal project. Generally, you should know how to create
the models according to the premises of the art department and prepare them so
they can be part of a great production of animation. Plus, you are usually required to
revise your work according to the feedback you get from seniors or in some cases, the
client.

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@ Copyright by Domestika

6 of the most common 3D modeling techniques

in the animation industry
Generally, 3D modelers start with a low-resolution topology, then add more details to
the 3D model. But there ARE different approaches towards creating a 3D model
depending on the type of the object, the final purpose of the object, and the ability or
preference of the artist or animation studio. These styles will get you to nearly the
same results through different methods.

Some of the most popular techniques used for 3D modeling include:

1. Digital Sculpting
Digital sculpting is a rather new modeling approach that relies on a process akin to
clay modeling in the real world. It has changed the workflow for a vast number of 3D
modelers since its introduction; enabling them to jump into creating art rather than
getting stuck by the technical constraints of 3D modeling. High-res models created
by this method cannot be used directly in a 3D animation; a low-res retopology model
needs to be created.

2. Boolean modeling
Boolean modeling is not a popular approach in the entertainment industry. In this
approach the geometry of an object is created by taking two objects and making
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them a new one; either by cutting one out of the other, combining the two, or using
the negative space of the intersection as the new object.

3. Laser Scanning
A new method of 3D modeling was introduced with the advancement of laser
scanning technology. In this technique, a real object is laser-scanned to create a
digital representation of it. The scanning process is usually quick and easy, but the
geometry created needs to be cleaned up before use.

4. Box modeling
Box modeling is a popular approach to character modeling. It is a quick method to
create basic shapes. Everything starts with a cube in Box Modeling. The artist then
starts extruding the physical features of the character like the arms, legs, fingers, etc.
The 3D model will be refined by adding detail to the whole shape.

5. SubD Modelling
Subdivision Modeling is probably the most popular way to create a form in a 3D
environment. It is used to create models with scalable detail that still look good when
rendered. In this technique, the focus is often on defining form first, then subdividing
it and adding more detail by using the extra polygons. This is in some ways similar to
using large brush strokes initially and then adding more detail in the conventional
painting.

6. NURBS Modeling
NURBS (Non-uniform rational B-spline) geometry is a mathematical model type
making use of smooth curves guideposts that will span a surface between them.
NURBS models are great at representing smooth, rounded shapes but do have
limitations, which makes them more difficult to use than polygons. NURBS modeling
is more popular in product visualization and architecture industries.

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What does a 3D modeler do in a 3D animation

studio?
A 3D modeler is a person responsible for creating the geometry of a 3D model or
cleaning up the 3D models which are already created. 3D animation modelers are the
digital-age equivalents of classic sculptors. The primary responsibilities of a 3D
modeler in a 3D animation studio include:

Interpreting concept art and/or sketches

Creating 3D models based on provided specifications
Following design guidelines and other technical constraints
Refine, optimize, or correct 3D models
Managing digital assets
Collaborating with other 3D artists

Pursuing a career in 3D modeling needs extensive training in 3D modeling and

animation. A strong understanding of the latest industry concepts and technologies
will be of great help. Most 3D animation studios shape specialized teams for different
components of the animation pipeline, so interpersonal and communication skills are
essential.

Working as a 3D modeler in a 3D animation studio means using your creativity and

imagination on a daily basis.

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Something that you should know before getting into 3d modeling, is knowing the ins
and outs of a character shape language. Check our blog if you’re interested.

What is the 3D Modeling Workflow?

Each 3D artist or studio has its own workflow for 3D modeling. Different objects in a
single project might also require different approaches. However, there’s a common
step by step route to reaching a final 3D model; regardless of technique or style:

References: every 3D modeling process starts with a reference such as pre-

production concept art real-world images or even objects.
Planning: here you need to make a plan on how you’re going to create your model.
Each model could be split into separate simple primitives.
Execution: the goal is to create a primitive shape of the 3D model based on the
plan and make sure the proportions are correct.
Refinement: After creating the primitive model, you need to add additional details
to your 3D model to make it look better.
Retopology: When the 3D model is ready, you need to build your low poly model
from high poly by using retopology tools.

What is the best 3D model animation software?

3D modeling is used in various industries for different purposes. Over the years,
different types of modeling software have been developed with a special focus. The
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main usage areas and their most favored software packages include:

Best 3D modeling software in Entertainment Industry

In the entertainment industry (including 3D animation), software packages such as
ZBrush, Mudbox, 3Ds Max, Maya, or Blender are typically used. The usability of these
software packages is not limited to 3D modeling; they can be used to do some other
tasks as well, including animation, physical dynamic simulation, texturing, lighting,
rendering, and compositing.

ZBrush, for instance, is a digital sculpting tool suitable for creating high-resolution 3D
models used in movies or 3D animations. Unlike more traditional 3D modeling
software, this package is more akin to traditional sculpting.

Mudbox is another software mainly used to create high-resolution digital sculpting,

texture painting, displacement, and normal map creation. It offers a high-
performance environment and professional-quality tools to help create highly realistic
3D characters, environments, and props in less time.

3Ds Max, formerly known as 3D studio, has powerful modeling capabilities for 3D
modeling and a close resemblance to AutoCAD. Video game developers, TV
commercial studios, and architectural visualization studios frequently use this
software.

Maya is somehow the industry standard in 3D animation these days. Whether you’re
an amateur 3D artist or a professional animation studio, Maya is definitely one of the
main software packages you need to consider working with seriously.

As a free and open-source 3D modeling and animation program, Blender comes with
a strong toolset capable of creating professional high-quality assets and animations.
However, learning Blender is not easy and it’s considered a non-standard in the
industry.

Having said this, there are tons of 3D modeling software out there. Each 3D artist or
3D animation studio might choose a different software package based on project
specifications and their own requirements.

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Best 3D modeling software in Architectural & product visualization

AutoCAD, Rhinoceros, SolidWorks, and SketchUp Pro are among popular software
packages mostly used in the architecture and product visualization industries.

These do not provide the specific feature lists provided by software packages used in
the entertainment industry but are very accurate when it comes to product modeling
using parametric solid modeling techniques.

SketchUp, for example, is a popular tool boasting a user-friendly interface; making it

perfect for beginners interested in 3D modeling for architectural work.

Law & medical

Pretty much any of the above-mentioned software packages can be used in Law and
medical industries.

Wrap-up
In a 3D animation, everything needs to be created or “modeled”; thus 3D modeling
the characters, props and environments is a crucial part of every 3D animation
studio’s pipeline. 3D models are surface representations of objects created in a 3D
environment like 3D software.

Approved 3D models can go back in the pipeline from here. The proxy models used in
the 3D layout can be replaced with the final models; enabling the layout artist to

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better adjust the scene for instance.

The final models will be delivered to the texture artist to be painted and shaded (3D
texturing). The rigging artist can also start working on their control systems and
getting them prepared for the animation stage (3D rigging).

3.7/5 - (3 votes)

Arash Naghdi
Arash is the equivalent of Buzz in Toy Story when he goes to
infinity and beyond, but never comes back! responsible for our
blog and content marketing efforts, he always delights the
audience with his tenacity and passion in creating the
extraordinary.

Payam Adib
Creating "something"​ out of "nothing"​ is the greatest joy for
Payam. He believes content creation is the offspring of his innate
characteristics including his never-ending thirst for painting,
poetry, photography, music, and writing.

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 How character color palette can The Ultimate Guide to Lighting

make or break a character design (best
tips with examples)
Fundamentals for 3D 

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15 COMMENTS   Oldest 

Alia Parker  5 years ago

Thank you for sharing with us this

2 -1 Reply

Arash Naghdi  3 years ago

 Reply to Alia Parker

Author
You’re welcome Alia, thanks for dropping us a comment.
0 0 Reply

Will  4 years ago

Precisely, every newcomers should taking notes of each valuable information.

Thanks for sharing this great effort, i will certainly recommend this to my
outsourcing team. Reading this information could help them in their new task
about 3D modeling & rendering.
0 0 Reply

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Gaurav Verma  4 years ago

The workflow section I like, you simply describe for beginners. Beginner artist
does not follow the correct workflow. The workflow also depends on the project
0 0 Reply

Arash Naghdi  4 years ago

 Reply to Gaurav Verma

Author
Thank Guarav. That’s totally right.
0 0 Reply

Jonah  4 years ago

I really like how you break down the topic and use pictures to illustrate the
points. great article
0 0 Reply

Arash Naghdi  4 years ago

 Reply to Jonah
Author
Thank you very much Jonah, it’s such a relief to hear that.
0 0 Reply

Isnae  4 years ago

Is 3d modeling workflow an absolute step in animation production pipeline? or

can we skip that?
0 0 Reply

Arash Naghdi  4 years ago

 Reply to Isnae
Author
Yes, it is Isnae, you can check out all the step in the animation pipeline here:
animation pipeline
0 0 Reply

Tola  4 years ago

Which is more suitable for character animation not game , modeling a character
and subdividing with the subdivision surface or using character that has a high

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res mesh baked into a low resh mesh? Please what are the benefits or demerits
of both approaches for character animation
0 0 Reply

Arash Naghdi  3 years ago

 Reply to Tola
Author
Hi Tola, I’ve sent over your question to our production team. We’ll get back
with an answer in no time.
0 0 Reply

3d Modeling And 3d Scanning  2 years ago

That’s a great blog. Thanks for sharing useful information with us.
0 0 Reply

RDV Systems  2 years ago

I was searching for this for a long time. Thanks for sharing!!
0 0 Reply

Allen Rafiee  2 years ago

 Reply to RDV Systems

This is great to hear. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us!
0 0 Reply

Rutuja  8 months ago

Nice and helpful blog, I am new in this Industry, i have gather so much
knowledge from your blog. Thanks for sharing.
0 0 Reply

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