Three-dimensional (3D) computer graphics and modeling software are the focus of resources listed in this guide.
In 3D computer graphics, modeling refers to the process of creating either a real-world object or an imaginary object in a 3D virtual world. The process is called modeling, and the product is known as a 3D model. Once created, 3D models can be displayed as a two-dimensional (2D) image through 3D rendering, used in a computer simulation, or created as a physical object through the use of 3D printing devices.
There are two types of 3D models: stylistic and photorealistic.
In stylized modeling, the goal is not to create an object that looks just like the real-world example. In this type of modeling, the 3D artist seeks to create an abstract model. A 3D cartoon character would be an example of stylistic modeling. Someone viewing a 3D rendering of Daffy Duck might recognize the character as a duck, although it doesn't truly look much like an actual duck.
Photorealistic styling attempts to simulate a 3D object that looks like the real-world object. This type of modeling is used in the medical and dental fields in products such as 3D renderings of body parts, such as lungs or teeth, and we have seen it in the movies when CGI is made to look like actual video footage. Through photorealistic 3D modeling, Hollywood has even brought back actors who have been dead for years, as well as dinosaurs that have been extinct for millions of years. While photorealistic 3D models do not always appear exactly like the real-world example, that is the goal, and the technology is constantly improving.
While 3D modeling can be done manually, using plastics arts or sculpting, it can usually be accomplished better and quicker through computer software technology, and sometimes a combination of manual and computer graphics modeling is used.
The most common way to create 3D models is through the use of 3D software applications. There are ways to create 3D models using Java or other programming languages, but this requires familiarity with the language and far more time than it would take to achieve the same result through software.
There are several commercial and open-source software applications for 3D modeling. Some popular ones include Autodesk 3DS Max, Autodesk Maya, Cinema 4D, LightWave, Rhinoceros 3D, and SolidWorks. Professional 3D modeling programs, such as these, do not come cheap, however.
There are lower-priced and even free and open-source options, but they tend to be limited. Daz Studio is a popular software application produced by Daz 3D and offered for free. Blender 3D is a free and open-source graphics toolset used for 3D printed models, animated films and motion graphics, computer games, and other visual effects. Some of the free and open-source alternatives compete well with the expensive commercial products.
Any software designed for 3D graphics and 3D modeling is appropriate for this category, whether commercial, open-source, or freeware.
Recommended Resources
Originally developed for the DOS platform by Gary Yost in 1996, and published as 3D Studio by Autodesk, 3D Studio Max is a 3D computer graphics program used for 3D animations, games, images, modeling and rendering, supported only by the Microsoft Windows platform. Offered only by software-as-a-service (SaaS) subscription, a trial offer is available. Its features are listed and discussed, along with its support options, announcements of new developments, and other resources.
https://www.autodesk.com/products/3ds-max/
Often known simply as Maya, the 3D computer graphics application runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Created by combining projects by Wavefront Technologies, Thomson Digital Image, and Alias Research, Maya was developed by Autodesk, with collaboration from Walt Disney Feature Animation. Available through an annual subscription via SaaS, Maya is used to create assets for interactive 3D applications, animated films, and visual effects. A free trial is available.
https://www.autodesk.com/products/maya/
Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation suite that supports animation, compositing, grease pencil, modeling, motion tracking, rendering, rigging, scripting, sculpting, simulation, VFX, video editing, and 2D animation pipeline. Due to its custom architecture, its UI, window layout, and shortcuts can be customized. Requirements, release notes, and demo files, documentation and a manual, tutorials, licensure data, a developer’s forum, and other support options are noted.
https://www.blender.org/
Offered by Daz 3D, Daz Studio is a free 3D scene creation and rendering application used to produce images and video and to allow users to manipulate ready-to-use models and figures, as well as supporting other 3D content. Daz 3D is a 3D content and software company that specializes in providing rigged 3D human models, accessory content, and software. Other applications available from the company are Bryce, Hexagon, and Carrara. Daz Studio may be downloaded from the site.
https://www.daz3d.com/
Created in 1990, LightWave 3D is a 3D computer graphics program developed by NewTek and used in television and films, motion graphics, digital matte painting, visual effects, video game development, product design, architectural visualizations, advertising, and other purposes. An overview of its features is put forth, along with tutorials and a gallery of examples of images that can be created with the application. A trial offer is available, and the program may be purchased online.
https://www.lightwave3d.com/
Developed by Maxon Computer, Cinema 4D is a 3D modeling, animation, and rendering program available by monthly or annual subscription. Its plans and pricing are defined, and its products and solutions are described in detail. A gallery of photographs demonstrates the capabilities of the software product in architecture, visualization, science and medical, art, advertising and design, cartoons, broadcast and motion graphics. A trial version is available.
https://www.maxon.net/en-us/products/cinema-4d/
The origins of the free software project go back as far as 1986, and it has been hosted on its own domain since 1994. Its flagship product is POV-Ray, first known as DKBTrace, then STAR-Light, and now known as the Persistence of Vision Tray Tracer, commonly known as POV-Ray, a cross-platform ray-tracing application that generates images from a text-based scene description, creating three-dimensional graphics. It is available under the GNU Affero General Public License.
http://www.povray.org/
Commonly abbreviated Rhino3D, the commercial 3D computer graphics, and computer-aided design (CAD) software application is developed by Robert McNeel & Associates. Compatible with the macOS and Windows operating systems, it is available for purchase online or from a retailer, with special offers available for students, faculty, and school uses. Its capabilities are demonstrated in a gallery of images, an overview of its features is presented, and its support services are outlined.
https://www.rhino3d.com/
Developed by Last Software in 1999, which was acquired by Google Corporation in 2006, SketchUp is now being developed by Trimble Navigation. SketchUp is a 3D modeling computer program with features for use in architectural, interior design, and landscape architecture, civil and mechanical engineering, film, and video game design. Free and commercial versions are available, including SketchUp for Web, SketchUp Pro, SketchUp Viewer, 3D Warehouse, and LayOut.
https://www.sketchup.com/
Founded in Norway, Software Companions develops software applications for viewing, printing, and conversion of file formats used in the CAD/CAM market, as well as developing and selling components that can be used by applications developed by other companies, including custom components. Its products include three editions of ViewCompanion, GerbView, scViewerX, and scConverter, each of which are highlighted and made available for online purchase. Its support services are listed.
http://www.softwarecompanions.com/
The flagship product for the Swedish company is UPAAL, an integrated software tool environment for modeling, simulation, and verification of real-time embedded systems, typically used in real-time controllers and communication protocols, where timing aspects are critical. Its key features and criteria are highlighted, an installation guide is provided, along with a tutorial, troubleshooting help, version history, and other support options.
https://www.uppaal.com/
