"3D image editing" refers to the manipulation of three-dimensional (3D) graphics or images. Unlike traditional 2D image editing, 3D image editing allows for the manipulation of objects and scenes in a three-dimensional space. This includes modeling objects, applying textures and materials, lighting the scene, and adjusting camera settings to create realistic or stylized 3D graphics.
Typical functions of software in the "3D image editing" domain include:
Modeling: The ability to create 3D models from scratch or edit existing models, including adding, removing, or deforming objects.
Texturing: Applying textures and materials to 3D models to give them a realistic appearance and add surface details.
Lighting: Controlling light sources and shading in the 3D scene to create realistic lighting effects and define the atmosphere of the scene.
Rendering: Computing and generating images from the 3D scene, including applying rendering techniques such as ray tracing or rasterization.
Animation: The ability to add motion and change to 3D objects to create animations, including motion paths, skeletal animations, and particle effects.
Camera settings: Adjusting camera settings such as viewpoint, focal length, and focus to set the viewer angle and perspective of the 3D scene.
Physical simulation: Simulating physical properties such as gravity, collisions, and fluid simulations to create realistic behavior of objects in the 3D scene.