Tips for new and current 3D Designers.
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Tips for new and current 3D Designers.



3D Graphic design can be a fun way of evoking or expressing emotions visually. Some people do it as their daily hustle others do it for leisure. Whether you're new or an expert in 3D graphic design, it should come as no surprise that we've all made a few mistakes. Sometimes they are hidden other times they point out like a sore thumb. Either way, don't be too hard on yourself and never convey the critique negatively.


Always remember that it is merely an insight provided by the interpreter based on their point of view. With over fourteen years of experience in graphic design and six years in 3D design, it's never the same every day you will learn something new. So, without further ado, at the time of writing this article, here are some tips to improve your design and design workflow.

Software

These are the best and most powerful 3D modeling software in 2020 but comes with a hefty price tag:

A license to use the best of best does not come cheap. However, if you are a frugal spender like me, thankfully there are a bunch of generous developers and companies around the world that have the less unfortunate in mind. These are the best free 3D modeling software not limited to:

I have used Autodesk 3Ds Max, Blender, and Google Sketchup. Personally, Blender is my favorite and would be the only software I recommend at this time. It's easy to use and has tons of features like sculpting, modeling, and cross-compatible.


Be inspired by some of the world's best blender artist:

Hardware

We live in a world where technology is evolving like there is no tomorrow, and with so many options, the selection process can be tedious. Before making any purchase, ensure your hardware have the minimum requirements like:

  • Dedicated GPU.

  • Future proof hardware.

  • Tablet for sculpting.

  • Consider the weight if you like portability.

  • Make it Custom if you know I.T. or have patience.

Design Fundamentals

Colours

An attractive design involves a delicate balance of colours. If the design feels overwhelming to the eye, then the design itself lacks balance.

  • Start with two or three colours and include a neutral colour for balance.

  • When choosing a palette, limit your selection to just a few shades that create enough contrast to give the design depth without being distracting.

Composition

A good composition is one where the artist controls the movement of the viewer's eye to a beneficial result. Create a storyboard or mood board to help with your composing process.

  • Starts with a scope.

  • Design and scale in real-world metrics.

  • Have a background, middle ground, and foreground.

  • Create relationship shapes using a scale and colours.

  • Use symmetry to draw attention.

  • Consider a focal point of your subject.

  • Channel the rule of thirds and the golden ratio.

  • Be opened minded.

While such advice can help to create strong images, if they ever become restrictive, experiment by doing some unstructured sketching.


Designs Process

The internet is full of resources for beginners. Don't be afraid to use them to your advantage. Even the most experienced 3D modeller has, at some point, faced difficulty, and asked for help.

  • Set Short term goals and start simple.

  • Use the software efficiently.

  • Don't rush the creative process.

  • Organize files in a folder hierarchy.

  • Know your shortcuts.

  • Don’t be obsessed about topology.

  • Keep vertices at a minimum. Too much can affect the performance of your computer and affect render time.

  • Try to subdivide polygons evenly.

  • Clean up artifacts.

You may check out my portfolio here

Shane Bygrave


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