Guidance on the right path

casool · Mar 2015

So I'm not totally new to 3D modeling, but I need a bit of advice as to going in the right direction. Recently I've discovered 3D sculpting and I'm liking it much more than the traditional polygon modeling process. My question is, should I continue to learn traditional modeling and have a good understanding of it before I move on to sculpting? Or is it ok just to jump into sculpting if that's my interest?

Here's some stuff I've done just to give you an idea of what I can/have done.

Sorry for the picture spam

Eric Chadwick · Mar 2015

Why not learn both? They're not mutually exclusive.

It seems you like hard surface modeling, in which case subdivision surface modeling is your best bet, at least for the bulk of your work. A sculpting app can be used on top to add organic touches like dents, bent bits, etc.

But some people love using a sculpting app for hard-surface work, start to finish.

Best bet is to try it all out yourself, see what workflow fits you best.

Edit... there is no "right path".

casool · Mar 2015

Thanks, I'd like to clarify what I meant. I was just under the impression that sculpting required a good foundation in traditional modeling. I personally want to do organic stuff and character creation. When I said 'path' I was just referring to either jumping into sculpting now or regular modeling now and sculpting down the line.

Eric Chadwick · Mar 2015

The order doesn't matter, in my experience and from studying others' workflows. You don't need traditional modeling skills to do good sculpting work. Although of course it doesn't hurt either.

PyrZern · Mar 2015

For making characters, I'd say having both skills is a very very good idea. You want good flow of topology on your characters. Especially on important areas like face, shoulders, and hands.

Guidance on the right path

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