

There are 3 different types of geometry you can use for 3D modeling, these are: polygons, NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational Basic Splines) and subdivision surfaces.

Geometry types within the Maya 2016 viewport. Okay got it, but what is a 3D model made from? So before we get into the tools I use for 3D modeling, let’s first take a step back and take a look at what a 3D model is actually made from.

And to help you along the way, a handy list of supported software can be found at our supported apps page. We of course are talking about our industry leading Maya render farm, which this post will focus on. A lot of the software used in 3D modeling is capable of much more, including the creation of 3D animations, like Zootropolis (also known as Zootopia), or even South Park - “Whaaat!?” I hear you shout yep the seemingly 2D-animated TV show is produced primarily with Maya.ģD modeling is only one of several important steps toward rendering out a final animation, which is where GarageFarm.NET comes in. There are a large number of computer applications out there that can be used for 3D modeling, available either as freeware or via a paid subscription the latter often allows you to download a 30-day free trial, such as in the case of Maya. With the basics out of the way, let’s jump into speaking a little about 3D modeling software. The letters X (left/right), Y (up/down) and Z (forward/backwards) represent these three dimensions the first two of which may bring back good or bad memories of school math class. Apologies if, like me, the mere mention of the phrase ‘digital world’ has set off the Digimon theme tune playing in your head.ģD refers to the three dimensions of the universe, used to determine an object’s position within space, or ‘spaaaaace!’ as fellow Portal 2 fans will remember (the “4th dimension”, time, is irrelevant in this case). 3D modeling is the digital creation of three-dimensional objects in dedicated computer software, such as Autodesk Maya, or more excitingly put, creating something from nothing in a digital world. Is it some newfangled way of watching America’s Next Top Model on TV with a pair of the famous red & blue specs? Well, no, not at all… it’s something even better.
