A 3D model is a 3D representation or an object (character, prop or environment) and is shown in 3D using a rendering engine.
Components of a 3D Model : 1. Face - The Surface of a 3D Model 2. Edge - define the boundaries of a model 3. Vertex - individual points 3D space that define the corners and intersections of a mesh
Uses of 3D Models 1. 3D Printing - objects/items used in manufacture and various other industries 2. 3D rendering - movies, TV Shows and production 3. Real-Time 3D Rendering - video games
Some popular softwares for 3D Modelling : ZBrush by Pixologic- Ideal for Digital Sculpting - functions closest to how real-life sculpting works. Mostly used to create hi-res Character Models.
Some popular softwares for 3D Modelling : Blender by Maxon - Fully free for use and community maintained. Ideal entry point for most and highly scalable, Blender is used for large scale AAA projects as well.
Must-Know Jargon 3D Rendering - process of showing a 3D model on a 2D screen, done by a 3D Renderer/rendering engine Popular rendering engines today include Unreal Engine and Blender
Must-Know Jargon Mesh - A collection of polygons in 3D objects, used to refer to the complexity of the model.
Must-Know Jargon Rigging - Creating the 3D model's "Skeleton" so that it can be manipulated/moved/animated, usually done for characters and props such as weapons