Understanding 3D Rendering And Modeling: The Differences

1 July 2019
 Categories: Business, Blog


When it comes to digital production, many of those new to the industry often confuse digital rendering and digital modeling. It is understandable, as the two are similar and related; however, it is crucial to understand the differences so that you can choose the right product for your needs. Here are some of the things you need to understand about the differences between modeling and rendering before you purchase any software package.

The Final Product Differs

Both 3D modeling and rendering are both methods for producing 3D digital products. However, 3D modeling is solely for producing a 3D replica of a specific item. In comparison, 3D rendering is the creation of images and videos that include those 3D models.  

That means that you will need some 3D modeling to complete your 3D rendering, but the 3D rendering process produces a more comprehensive, cohesive final product because it allows for the creation of scenes and such. 

Used for entertainment purposes, 3D rendering often features artistic interpretations of items and objects where 3D modeling is usually more focused on specific ratios of the actual dimensions and measurements of the item in question.

The Tools Used Are Different

When it comes to rendering and modeling, the tools used for both are completely different. Modeling software does not have the same level of tools that rendering software provides. This is mostly because modelers need only production tools, not the creative tools that are required for creating complex scenes such as those used in rendering.

While many technicians that specialize in rendering can also do some modeling, most who specialize in modeling do not have the skills for rendering. That makes modeling a more specialized skill that requires training and expertise.

The Final Use Varies

When it comes to models and renders, the final use is different as well. A model can be used in a variety of applications many times over, while a render is a completed product, not a component. 

The render can be used as a marketing tool in many different platforms and can be used as part of an educational design, but it cannot be inserted into another render or production.

Software Platforms Are Specific

Because of the differences between rendering and modeling, the software packages used for both are vastly different. You need more editing and animation tools for rendering than for modeling, though modeling focuses more on the actual creation and design tools. You can complete a 3D rendering using various models to create the scene, and you can animate it to create the video you want using the rendering software. However, modeling software will only allow for you to manipulate the object in its existing form, such as rotating it, shifting it, and resizing it.

It is important to assess the functionality of any software platform before you invest in it to be sure that it is offering you the features that you need for the service you're completing. If you'll be rendering designs, you need a platform that offers you more digital manipulation and editing tools than if you'd just be creating a 3D model.

Now that you understand the difference between modeling and rendering, you can understand which one you're actually looking to do. This makes it easier for you to choose the software that you actually need and to create the final product that you've envisioned. Whether you reach out to a professional for rendering or modeling services or you buy a platform that allows you to do it yourself, the information here can help. Contact a company that offers products like V Ray Unreal software near you today for more information and to choose the software that best suits your needs.


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