Character Modeling Workflow

Creating a high‑quality 3D character is a multi‑stage process that balances artistry and technical precision. Below is a step‑by‑step guide that I follow for most characters, from concept to final render.

Table of Contents

1. Concept & Reference

Gather reference images and sketch the character from multiple angles. Use tools like Clip Studio Paint or Procreate to create a clean turnaround.

Character concept turnaround

2. Blocking

Start with simple geometry to define the silhouette. In Blender, use the Box and Mirror modifiers to quickly lock down proportions.

bpy.ops.mesh.primitive_cube_add(size=2)
bpy.ops.object.modifier_add(type='MIRROR')

3. High‑Poly Sculpt

Switch to sculpt mode, add details with Dynotopo, and use brushes like Clay, Crease, and Pinch. Maintain a resolution of 4‑8k for facial features.

High‑poly sculpt in progress

4. Retopology

Create a clean low‑poly mesh. Use the Poly Build tool in Blender or ZRemesher in ZBrush for automated base topology, then manually tweak edge loops around the eyes, mouth, and joints.

bpy.ops.mesh.remesh()
bpy.ops.object.modifier_add(type='DECIMATE')

5. UV Mapping

Unwrap the model using the Smart UV Project, then manually adjust seams for minimal distortion. Pack islands tightly to maximize texture space.

UV layout for character

6. Texturing

Paint the base color, roughness, metallic, and normal maps in Substance Painter. Use smart materials for skin and clothing, and export in 4k PNGs.

Export Settings:
- Base Color: PNG
- Roughness: PNG
- Normal: PNG

7. Rigging & Skinning

Build a skeletal rig with bones for spine, limbs, and facial controls. Use automatic weighting, then paint custom weights for precise deformations.

Rigged character in Blender

8. Rendering & Post‑Process

Set up a three‑point lighting rig, enable Subsurface Scattering for skin, and render with Cycles (or Octane). Finish with color grading in Photoshop or DaVinci Resolve.

Render Settings:
- Engine: Cycles
- Samples: 1024
- Denoising: ON

9. Conclusion

This workflow balances speed and quality, allowing you to iterate quickly while maintaining a high level of detail. Adjust each stage based on your project's needs, and keep experimenting with new tools and techniques.

⇧