Discovering 3D Modeling

Hey creative souls, welcome back! So, you’re finally here, and honestly, I can’t believe it. I am not expecting anyone to read this, but still here I am with another blog—because as we all know, consistency is the key to success.

Today, I want to share the story behind my very first 3D model. Back then, I had no idea how 3D worked. I started working on this purely for the sake of completing the syllabus, as I initially chose this program due to my interest in graphics. But somehow, my interest in 3D started developing.

Learning the Basics of 3D

At that time, we were just getting introduced to the basics of 3D, understanding the concepts, and familiarizing ourselves with the software. We started by learning the interface and the fundamental techniques of creating a 3D model. With that limited knowledge, I took on my first project. Looking at it now, it might not be great, but given my skill level at the time, I’d say it was a decent attempt.

Experimenting with 3D Tools

I primarily worked with basic tools like extrude, insert, and bevel. However, I had no clue about modifiers. For those unfamiliar, modifiers in 3ds Max help manage workflow by keeping work in layers and allowing for non-destructive editing. While our teachers were explaining these concepts, I was simultaneously working on my project. This hands-on approach helped me learn a lot, gradually strengthening my interest in 3D. Initially, when I joined college, I was inclined toward graphic design, but once I was introduced to 3D, it completely captivated me.

Turning an Interior into an Exterior

While working on this, I first took out the layout of the house. As we were instructed. We were told to complete it and come up with the final output. So, I worked on it, but instead of making just an interior and exterior separately, I converted my interior project into an exterior. This was the hardest part for me, since I had no reference for it. So, I simply made the roof by extruding and inserting the surface, and this was the final output.

Balancing Learning and Practice

Our course was structured in a way that we were taught 3ds Max. for about three months. Alongside, we were also learning editing softwares. Since we were beginners, the syllabus was packed, and our teachers had to cover a lot in a short span. We had only three to four classes on texturing, where we learned the basics of UV unwrapping and texturing in Photoshop.

Reflecting on My First 3D Model

With all the knowledge I had gained at that point, I started texturing my model. Looking back, I realize I made many mistakes—my UVs weren’t unwrapped properly, and the mesh wasn’t even aligned correctly. If you look at the windows, you can clearly see gaps. But at that time, I was incredibly proud of my work because it was the best I could do with the skills I had.

Unfortunately, I don’t have the raw files of this project since it was created a long time ago, but I do have these four renders of the project I took back then. This project marked the beginning of my journey into 3D, and even with its flaws, it remains special to me. It’s a reminder of how far I’ve come and how much more there is to learn in the world of 3D art.

Renders