3D Terpology

3D terpology especially within the face is the layout of polygons that have been manipulated to fit a model ready for things such as facial animation I.E..

There are many ways in which to model a head in 3D. In this tutorial, we'll look at polygon modelling with subdivision smoothing for mesh refinement. This approach enables you to create the topology of the face mesh in a very direct and hands-on manner. With NURBS modelling, creating a human head can be problematic, and the best method involves stitching multiple surfaces together. This takes an awful lot of planning and isn’t a method you can jump straight into. Polygon modelling enables you to correct mistakes more easily

Correct topology (the way a surface is structured) is the single most important aspect of head modelling. We'll be creating special topological structures, known as ‘edge loops', which outline areas of the face and mimic the rings of muscle under the skin. Without proper loops, a head will be difficult to animate. We’ll also be making sure all the polygons have four vertices (called quads). A mesh of all quads is less likely to pinch when smoothed and animated.