Guide to 3D Characters
PROCESS
3D character modeling is a multi-stage process in which a 3D artist uses various software and tools to create a game character or other media. The creation of modern games, movies, and even commercials is almost inseparable from CG-technology, one of the directions of which is the modeling of characters. The main stages of pipeline consist of:
Concepting
Blocking
Sculpting
Retopology
UV unwrapping
Baking
Texturing
Rigging & Skinning
Animation
Rendering
Today we will show you with detail, and our personal experience what a 3D model of a character is, how does it work, how it’s created, and a few designer secrets and lifehacks.
HOW DOES 3D MODELING WORK?
In order to choose the right pipeline, you will first need to understand what exactly you want to achieve and what are your expectations of a result (needed to choose the right realization technique).
There are many techniques for creating 3D characters. For example, we can highlight the 2 biggest techniques for creating. For the start, let’s choose a pre-render of characters, and then a true 3D model. In addition, these areas of creation can be more detailed and less detailed. Remember which game engine is used with which rendering pipeline- everything depends on the result we need.
The character is usually a human, animal, robot, or mythical creature. In addition, the character can be either the main character (the player controls it during the game) or a secondary character (the creatures with which the player interacts), or even exist on the periphery alone.
So, let’s focus on our version, we need to create a 3D character model for 3rd person camera view for PBR. PBR stands for Physically Based Rendering. The main idea is to use multiple texture maps to control the different properties of the material, determining how the material reacts to light. This method of material creation is widely used in rendering.
WHAT IS POLYGONAL MODELING?
It is divided into a highly polygonal (detailed model with a large number of polygons) and a low-polygonal (schematic model with a small number of polygons), making it optimal for use in games.
Polygonal modeling is a low-level simulation that visualizes an object using a polygonal grid. It may often seem easy to work with them. It has a clearly defined external and internal area, and no additional parameters and calculations need to be made.
However, this method requires a lot of patience and perseverance because to create even the simplest three-dimensional model, it is necessary to make thousands of clicks with a mouse. The smallest error can spoil all your hard work, and it is difficult to remake the finished object. Because of this, it is important to be as careful and accurate as possible.
Polygonal grids consist of such sub-objects:
vertex (the point of joining the edges. There can be any number of them);
edges (lines protruding from face borders);
polygons (grid cells, plane sections, which are most often triangular or quadrangular in shape).
DETAILED STEP BY STEP 3D CHARACTER DESIGN PROCESS
To understand the overall concept of the character, gather as many references as possible to know who and how you are going to create. In addition, it is much more fun to work on the playable character when you know its backstory and what makes it unique. Lets have a closer look to each step of this process.
3D character concept
Before you start creating a character, you need to suppose about their story and how to picture it through this person. To do this, collect a variety of references to understand who and how you’re going to create. Plus, it’s much better to work on a playable character when you know their history and background and what makes them unique.
When you collect the ideas and the necessary references, here come into play concept artists. Their main goal is to give the primary look to unborn game characters and set the tone for their further development.
3D character Blocking
Tip: You can begin to create your 3D model by combining the primitive forms into the desired character form. This will give you an idea of what your character will look like.
3D character sculpting
When you start sculpting a character, you have a smooth model that doesn’t have the features yet, and the 3D artist needs to create them.
Creating a 3D Character Retopology
The topology of the game character is a surface structure that defines the model’s visual characteristics.
Most often, the topology of the 3D model is created using polygon modeling. Because polygons can have multiple angles, it is essential to choose a shape that allows you to easily edit and animate individual pieces of the shape.
UV unwrapping
Why UV unwrapping is important?
UV unwrapping is the process of ‘unfolding’ a mesh so that you can create a 2D texture which fits the 3D object. It is generally necessary if you wish to texture your object very accurately
What is UV Mapping & Unwrapping?
A UV map is the flat representation of the surface of a 3D model used to easily wrap textures. The process of creating a UV map is called UV unwrapping.
Baking
Baking is the process of saving information from a 3D mesh, to a texture file (bitmap).
Most of the time, this process involves two meshes, a high poly mesh and a low poly mesh:
A high poly mesh has many polygons (often millions) which means it can display high-resolution 3D detail.
The low poly mesh has far fewer polygons (usually only a few thousand), so it is cheaper to store and render.
Baking textures allows you to get the best of both worlds: the high level of detail from the high poly mesh and the low performance costs of the low poly mesh. In the baking process, the information of the high poly mesh is transferred onto the low poly mesh and saved into a texture.
General mesh maps is: Normal map, world space normal, ID, Ambient Occlusion, Curvature, Position, Thickness, Emissive
Texturing 3D models
It would seem that it is so difficult and interesting to create textures. But artists will not agree with you. Texturing is one of the most important steps in the construction of a 3D model. At this stage, the surfaces of the object model are given the necessary properties to make it more realistic.
Most textures are used to demonstrate the physical capabilities of the created model, make the object realistic and revitalize the game. One of the main functions is to create small details (folds on clothes, wrinkles, shadows, facial features, etc.).
Texturing is a form of computer graphics that allows the surface of 3D models to be saturated and realistic.
Tip: Use MIP texture is a texture application method (3D mapping) that uses multiple copies of a single texture image but with different levels of detail.
Rigging and skinning 3D character models
The rigging process involves creating a character skeleton. This is necessary in order to animate a separate skeleton or bone in the future and thus make the 3D model of a person move.
After rigging, skinning comes. In other words, at this stage, the skeleton becomes part of the character, which means that he can now move.
Character Animation in 3D
Model animation is an important final step in character creation. Artists animate the body movements of the characters, as well as create facial expressions to breathe life into them. When working on facial expressions, gestures, and movements, special tools are often used to manipulate parts of the body.
Lighting 3D character
Effective lighting can heighten a scene by depicting the position, time of day, emotions, mood, and behavior of the shot. The idea is to make the 3D model look more realistic and satisfying. A lighting artist can use lighting to manipulate the bystander on where to concentrate when exploring the game terrain or the 3D character model.
Tip: Use Ambient occlusion to make deep parts of our render more realistic and emphasize light parts. But do not exaggerate.
3D character rendering
It’s a process where an artist creates a scene for a 3D model using computer graphics and converts it into a 2D image. Artists adjust the illumination of the image, the direction of the camera, and the texture of the frame.
LifeHack. Some 3D artists use separate hardware for rendering – this allows them to continue work with another modeling on the main computer, while the rendering can take hours on the secondary one.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CREATE A 3D CHARACTER?
The time to produce a 3D character depends on numerous factors, like the position of complexity, experience of the modeler, etc. Keeping in mind these factors, it can take roughly 100 to 200 hours.
WHICH IS THE BEST SOFTWARE FOR 3D CHARACTER MODELING?
For designing a 3D character, developers use a wide range of software for 3D modeling and rendering. The perfect match for some of them is:
3ds Max
Autodesk Maya
Houdini
Daz Studio
ZBrush
Blender
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CREATE A 3D GAME CHARACTER?
You’ve decided to create your own signature character, but you’re not sure where to begin or how much it will cost. We figure out what is what.
The trademark character is usually an enthusiastic hero who has his own individual character, appearance, and habits. Through his interaction with the consumer, he expresses the image of the protagonist, company, brand, or brand. If we’re talking about 3D characters, they’re more realistic and dynamic. They’re more lively than 2D characters. They are used in games and often in the vast expanse of Internet advertising.
The characters can be:
рeople;
аnimals and plants;
invented and non-existent creatures (for example, monsters or aliens);
machinery (robots);
mythic creatures;
other inanimate objects.
The price of the game character depends on the complexity of the model, quality of the character, presence of additional artifacts, skins, and variety of movements. So, an average character model creates in about 100 hours, but it all depends on additional factors and characteristics.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO 3D MODEL A CHARACTER?
If you are interested in 3D modeling, here is a little easier. In general, the development of 3D models is the process of creating accurate virtual copies of objects or characters.
Most 3D models of the game characters are created for further development. So that the customer can see what he’s going to look like, put on a pair of crocs or something.
The process of modeling takes less time and has only five steps
Model simulation or geometry
It is about creating a three-dimensional geometric model, without taking into account the object’s physical properties.
Texturizing an object
The level of realism of the future model depends directly on the choice of materials when creating the textures. Professional programs for working with 3D graphics are almost unlimited in their ability to create a realistic picture.
Light and observation point
The choice of light tone, level of brightness, sharpness, and depth of shadows. This directly depends on the realistic perception of the image. In addition, you must select a monitoring point for the object. This can be a bird’s-eye view or a scaling of space to achieve a presence effect.
3D visualization or rendering.
The final stage of 3D modeling. It consists of detailing the display settings of the 3D model. That is the addition of graphic special effects such as glare, fog, glow, and others.
Post-production
This is the processing of images and videos with the help of media editors. Post-production is about giving media files original visual effects. The main goals of this stage are to arouse the consciousness of the potential consumer: to impress, to arouse interest, and to be remembered for a long time.
TOOLS
If you want to bring your stunning creations into digital format and bring them to life, you need to use the best character creation software. These programs can help you create memorable cartoon, game characters, produce various illustrations or science fiction films.
Fortunately, the market is full of various programs of different levels of complexity and different sets of features suitable for both amateurs and professionals.
Top 6 Character Creation Software
Autodesk Maya - With Time Editor
Daz3D - Virtual characters included
ZBrush - Customizable brushes
MakeHuman - Open-source
Blender - With path-tracking engine
Poser - Photorealistic 3D models
While compiling the list of the most feature-rich programs, I checked whether they have templates, are capable of recording movements in real-time, have rendering features, and can integrate with free animation software.
Some products are even capable of creating 3D models for their further printing, meaning that you can turn your digital character into a three-dimensional object for personal or professional use.
1. Autodesk Maya - Our Choice
With Time Editor
Great VFX effects
Rendering tools
Motion graphics
None
Verdict: Autodesk Maya allows users to create realistic complex geometric figures and patterns with just a few clicks of the mouse. This program enables the user to modify the existing model or layout of the project without requiring any technical knowledge as all the work can be done right from the comfort of your home. There are also tools that allow the user to apply splatter, airbrush and smoke effects to their models.
In addition, there are several other features included in this 3D modeling software. For example, AutoCAD Free is an add-on feature that provides the user with the freedom to modify their projects in the way they desire. With the help of this program, the user can change the topography of a scene, for instance, to make it appear like a terrain or cityscape.
2. Daz3D
Virtual characters included
Cross-platform
dForce technology
With ActivePose tool
Limited animation tools
Verdict: Daz3D allows you to quickly and easily create your own computer game characters. The character creator tool allows you to design and build characters to create numerous computer games. This quality game creation application will allow you to be as creative and as imaginative as you want to be. Once you get the hang of using the program, you may decide that you want to create your own game characters for online or offline play.
This 3D animation software is great for both new and experienced gamers. You can quickly create game characters to make an online role-playing game.
3. ZBrush
Customizable brushes
For heavy sculpting
Project Primitive feature
ZSpheres feature
Confusing workflow
Verdict: With ZBrush, you can create so many different characters, and then you can add on special effects, and backgrounds, and make the game much more attractive. This software helps to make flash games. It is designed for heavy sculpting.
You can even import from different file formats into the program such as PSD, JPEG and others. You can also share your work with other digital scrapbook enthusiasts over the internet. One of the coolest features of this software is the digital layer support, which lets you add different digital layer effects such as gradients, beveling and others to enhance your image editing capabilities.
4. MakeHuman
Open-source
For creating realistic characters
Built-in characters
Integration with 3D creation apps
Limited capabilities
Verdict: In MakeHuman you're going to be designing a character, and the program gives you feedback as to what your character looks like, acts, moves, and so forth. The character you come up with will be completely unique, because your personality will be reflected in how the character behaves, what they look like, and so forth. You'll be able to add abilities, weapons, spells, and any other aspects you think might be interesting.
The program has built-in characters such as pets, vampires, soldiers. In fact, you can make characters that are part of history, like ancient Egyptian gods. The software integrates with 3D modeling software for Mac, so you can create realistic scenes.
5. Blender
With path-tracking engine
The camera feature
Multi-platform software
Supports popular file formats
Limited advanced features
Verdict: With the Blender, you can easily and effortlessly create your own characters. It allows the user to select from thousands of different hair colors, eye colors, skin colors, clothing, scars, body types, and facial expressions. If we compare Blender vs Maya, the Blender has a more robust set of tools.
It is an easy-to-use program that gives you total creative control. With it, you can easily create a unique character without the assistance of any professional artist. The quick process of usage are another important factor that makes Blender an attractive choice of character design software. You can even share your character with family and friends.
6. Poser
Photorealistic 3D models
Automatic backups
It is available for business and personal
Notifications if backups fail
Weak functionality
Verdict: Poser will help you come up with an interesting character quickly and easily. You can choose to create an avatar for any of the people in the novel, and tell the computer to go perform a simulation of that person. People can spend hours playing this type of software, and coming up with different scenarios and personalities. The really neat thing is that all of the different people in the novel can have the same avatar or come from the same set of circumstances.
There is no limit to the number of people you can use your Poser character creation software on. Of course, the more characters you create, the larger the database of possible PCS, or personal computer characters you can create.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Fashion - Virtual Models
Music - Musicians & Bands
Sport - Athletes & Sports Personalities
SELLING 3D CHARACTERS
Thanks to the adoption of 3D design by big brands such as Apple and Facebook, there are a number of online marketplaces geared towards the buying and selling of digital 3D graphics.
Some focus on general use, like CG design, 3D illustrations, presentations, and UI. Others cater more specialized towards niche markets, such as architectural models, or industry-specific product models, like jewelry or furniture.
Each marketplace has its own requirements, benefits, and profit share rates, so make sure to weigh your options before committing to a particular platform.
To help get you started, here are five 3D marketplaces for you to consider:
1. TurboSquid
Founded in 2000, Turbosquid has championed growth in the 3D space through partnerships with leaders in the industry. Their collaborative efforts have led them to co-creating products like CheckMate, which defines quality specifications for the 3D industry, and StemCell, which allows 3D models to be converted to every major 3D application.
It comes as no surprise then that TurboSquid is considered to be one of the largest sources for professional 3D models. They're also the official 3D content licensee for Ford, General Motors, USPS, etc. In 2021, TurboSquid was acquired by Shutterstock.
Benefits:
List your 3D design content across various Turbosquid platforms and partner sites with just one upload.
Earn up to 80% commission when joining their affiliate program, SquidGuild.
Get insights and reports, with more detailed info about lucrative keywords and popular categories.
Customer support is handled by Turbosquad.
Used by: game developers, news agencies, architects, visual effects studios, advertisers, and creative professionals around the world.
Payment platforms: PayPal and Payoneer.
2. CG Trader
CGTrader was established in 2011 with the intention of being the first designer-friendly online marketplace for 3D content. It’s one of the largest sources for licensable stock and custom 3D models and offers two solutions for sellers and buyers.
CGTrader Marketplace is a community-based, self-service platform with a strong designer community with 4.52 million members. CGTrader Enterprise 3D Modeling is the enterprise solution that allows businesses to convert 2D product images into photorealistic 3D models for Augmented Reality and other 3D customer experiences.
Benefits:
Earn between 70-80% in royalties, which is one of the highest royalty rates in the market.
Immediate access to tips and a knowledge base with an ever-growing design community.
Access to potential clients requiring custom 3D projects.
Insights and reports to help maximize your earning potential.
Used by: 3D artists, design studios, and businesses all share and trade their models on CGTrader. If a business cannot find a specific 3D model on the platform, they can hire from the designer Marketplace community for custom jobs.
Payment platforms: There are four methods for royalty and freelance payments. PayPal, Payoneer, Wire transfer, and Webmoney.
3. Renderosity
Renderosity is a community-driven platform for digital artists. With nearly 800,000 members, the platform caters to both 2D and 3D art.
If you choose to sell in their MarketPlace, they offer free advertising options while also giving competitive industry rates.
Benefits:
A community created by artists for artists.
More artistic approach vs. commercial content.
Numerous features that maximize community learning and creativity.
Store marketing support is available.
Used by: 2D and 3D digital artists, animators, photographers, and writers.
4. Cubebrush
Described as an "eCommerce platform for artists, game developers & designers," Cubebrush's aim is to provide ongoing value to its sellers. The platform givers creators freedom and control over the digital items they sell.
Benefits:
Easy-to-use, free platform.
Two revenue stream options to maximize income: (1) When sharing your store URLs directly or via social networks, you make approximately 95% on each sale generated. (2) For sales generated by Cubebrush, you receive 70% of profits from a sale.
A broad range of payment types is accepted, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, PayPal, and most major credit cards.
A variety of digital projects can be sold, e.g. 3D assets, materials/substances, CG tutorials, 2D game assets, etc
Used by: digital artists, game developers and designers.
Payment platforms: PayPal
5. Sketchfab
Sketchfab has a “paid download” feature for models hosted on their site. Users wanting to sell models and have them featured in the Sketchfab store, need to apply to become sellers. Read more about becoming a seller in the help section.