How can you manage your 3D modeling files like a pro?
If you are a 3D modeler, you know how important it is to keep your files organized, backed up, and easy to access. Whether you work on personal projects, freelance assignments, or professional collaborations, managing your 3D modeling files like a pro can save you time, stress, and headaches. In this article, you will learn some tips and tricks to help you do just that.
One of the first steps to manage your 3D modeling files is to choose a consistent and clear naming system. This will help you identify, sort, and search for your files without confusion. A good naming system should include information such as the project name, the model name, the version number, the date, and the file type. For example, you could name your file as Project_Model_V01_20210816.fbx. You can also use prefixes or suffixes to indicate the status of your file, such as WIP (work in progress), FINAL (final version), or BAK (backup).
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Franz Vega
3D Artist
It is crucial to send files without naming them with versions to avoid disrupting workflow. Use a "master" at the end of the file, as it may be replaced in the future. This ensures a reference system for future updates. The rigging area should work with the final version of the model to avoid repeating processes. It can be referenced for characters without UVs, as long as the topology remains consistent. However, there may be exceptions depending on the model.
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Another essential step to manage your 3D modeling files is to organize them into folders and subfolders. This will help you keep your files in order, avoid duplication, and find what you need quickly. A good folder structure should reflect the hierarchy and logic of your project, such as the stages, categories, or elements of your 3D modeling workflow. For example, you could create folders for Concept Art, Modeling, Texturing, Rigging, Animation, Rendering, and so on. You can also use color codes, tags, or icons to label your folders and make them more visible.
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Franz Vega
3D Artist
Of course, if you use naming as an example, this is also crucial. Everything will update automatically and orderly if you work in a reference system. Suppose, for instance, that while lighting and texturing a model in software and using textures from a folder, they request a modification in the texture and the UVs from the model. You have referenced the MASTER of the model. Then, a BAK of the texture folder is created, but all of the old textures are replaced by the new ones. In a similar manner, the Master is backed up, but the old one is then replaced. In this manner, there won't be a need to adjust anything if you open your lighting scene again.
Version control is a system that tracks the changes and history of your 3D modeling files. It allows you to create, edit, save, and restore different versions of your files without losing or overwriting them. Version control is especially useful when you work on complex or collaborative projects, as it helps you avoid conflicts, errors, and data loss. There are many tools and software that offer version control features, such as Git, SVN, or Perforce. You can also use online platforms such as GitHub, Dropbox, or Google Drive to store and sync your files.
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Franz Vega
3D Artist
When working with a large team, it's crucial to be able to recover a bug-free version because any software or human error that could happen.
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Optimizing your 3D modeling files means reducing their size and complexity without compromising their quality or functionality. This can help you improve your performance, efficiency, and compatibility. There are many ways to optimize your 3D modeling files, such as deleting unused or hidden objects, merging or instancing similar objects, simplifying or baking textures and materials, compressing or converting file formats, and using level of detail (LOD) techniques. You can also use tools and software that offer optimization features, such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max.
Backing up your 3D modeling files means creating and storing copies of your files in different locations or devices. This can help you prevent or recover from data loss, corruption, or theft. You should backup your files regularly and frequently, depending on the size and importance of your project. You can use external hard drives, USB flash drives, or cloud storage services to backup your files. You can also use tools and software that offer backup features, such as Time Machine, Windows Backup, or Acronis.
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Arkadiusz Szadkowski
🧭 Shaping and Influencing the Reality Capture, Reality Mapping, Imagery, and Remote sensing sectors.
For important files I use a cross backup with OneDrive and Google Drive and of course offline sync. You can script simple robocopy .bat file to execute coping between mentioned locations.
Documenting your 3D modeling files means creating and updating notes, comments, or instructions that explain or describe your files. This can help you remember, communicate, or share your ideas, decisions, or processes. You can document your files in different ways, such as using text files, spreadsheets, or diagrams. You can also use tools and software that offer documentation features, such as Notepad, Excel, or Visio.
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Arkadiusz Szadkowski
🧭 Shaping and Influencing the Reality Capture, Reality Mapping, Imagery, and Remote sensing sectors.
Confluence is great tool for storing any documentation and collaboration. You can find there multiple good templates for decision logs, “How to “ etc.
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