3D Modeling on iPad Pro: Challenges and Recommendations for Non-Professionals
3D Modeling on iPad Pro: Challenges and Recommendations for Non-Professionals
As a professional software developer, I was curious to explore the possibilities of using my iPad Pro for 3D modeling. After some research, I decided to use Shapr3D for 3D modeling and Procreate for 3D painting. In this article, I will share my experience and challenges encountered while using these apps, and provide some recommendations for other non-professional 3D artists who may be interested in using their iPad Pro 12.9 (6th generation) for 3D modeling.
Shapr3D is a powerful 3D modeling app that is easy to use, even for non-professionals. It offers an intuitive interface and a variety of tools that allow users to create complex 3D models with ease. I found it to be a great app for quickly creating simple 3D models, such as geometric shapes, furniture, and household items. The app also allows users to export their models in various formats, making it easy to use them in other applications.
Procreate, on the other hand, is a popular app for digital painting and drawing. While it is not specifically designed for 3D painting, it offers some great features that can be used for this purpose. One of the advantages of Procreate is its wide range of brushes and tools that can be used to create unique textures and effects. This makes it a great app for painting 3D models and adding a personal touch to them.
However, during my experimentation with Shapr3D and Procreate, I encountered a major challenge — a bad topology of the models created in Shapr3D. Bad topology refers to the way in which the vertices and edges of a 3D model are arranged, which can affect the model’s appearance and usability. Unfortunately, I found that the topology of the models created in Shapr3D was not suitable for use in Procreate, as it made it difficult to paint the models accurately.
Despite this challenge, there are still some recommendations that I would like to share for non-professional 3D artists who are interested in using their iPad Pro for 3D modeling:
- Consider using other 3D modeling apps: While Shapr3D is a great app for beginners, there are many other 3D modeling apps that may offer better topology for 3D painting. Some popular alternatives include Blender, SketchUp, and Autodesk Fusion 360.
- Use Procreate for texturing and effects: While Procreate may not be the best app for 3D painting, it is still a great tool for adding textures and effects to 3D models. Consider exporting your 3D models to Procreate after creating them in another app, such as Blender or SketchUp.
- Keep experimenting: Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you may encounter while using your iPad Pro for 3D modeling. Keep experimenting with different apps and tools, and don’t be afraid to try new things. With time and practice, you will develop your skills and find the right tools for your needs.
In conclusion, as a professional software developer, I have found that using an iPad Pro as an extension to my work desk for drawing, painting, and 3D modeling can be a great way to explore new creative outlets. While there are some challenges when it comes to using the iPad Pro for 3D modeling, there are still many great apps and tools available that can help you create amazing 3D models. By focusing on finding the best workflow for your needs, you can make the most out of your iPad Pro and use it as a complementary tool to your MacBook Pro. So, keep experimenting and see how the iPad Pro can enhance your creativity and productivity in new and exciting ways!
