Integrating 3D models with photography
Interested in integrating your 3D work with the real world? This might help
# 1 13-05-2003 , 07:59 PM
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low and high poly

Ok guys, this is really a newbie question, I hope I will find the answer.
Can someone tell me the definition of low and high poly?And what's the different? I see them everywhere but I cant figure out myself. Just started doing 3d stuffs with Maya for like 2 weeks. Thanks guy

# 2 13-05-2003 , 08:11 PM
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Let´s see if I have my ideas right. :p

Low poly refers to models low on number of faces -or geometry-
Normally they´re optimized for game engines and such.

High poly refers to models high on faces counts and such, more or less destined to VFX. Much of the detailing itself comes from the geometry and not the texture, which happens to be a major factor when designing lowpoly.

A normal lowpoly character might have 2000-5000 faces.
A normal highpoly character might have up to 60 000 or more. (depending of course in details)

Hope this helps,

# 3 13-05-2003 , 08:11 PM
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They refer to how many polygons a scene has or a model etc.....the lower the count the less detail.....and in games it = Higher framerates....

The higher the count the more detail etc.....and in games it = lower framerate.

It also means more data for higher poly counts which = Longer Render times.


The trick is to get awesome detail with lower poly counts user added image

# 4 13-05-2003 , 08:13 PM
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2 posts at the same time!!!.....see we care user added image

# 5 13-05-2003 , 11:21 PM
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Wow, thanks a bunch. You guys are quick and helpful. I kinda get the idea but still bluring, I probably need to work more to really understand it.
By the way, if someone could like post 2 model to show which one is low poly and which one is high poly would be even greater....... user added image
Thanks again

# 6 13-05-2003 , 11:27 PM
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# 7 14-05-2003 , 05:57 AM
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is that right that high poly model always look better than low poly model?

# 8 14-05-2003 , 06:01 AM
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Depends on what you mean by "better". Each kind of model has its purpose. When used appropriately, either one can look very good.


Danny Ngan
Animator | Amaze Entertainment
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