Is it ok to apply subdiv to have extra topology for small details?

DrBombs · Jun 2023

Hello everyone, I am trying to model a piece from Robocop 1987, picture below:

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021068/uploads/editor/6y/bna6s2m90yb3.png

Now I Have the basis for it,

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5021068/uploads/editor/y2/69iqi2rkeonu.png

So my question is, when adding these details, that small, should I apply one subdiv level to have twice the topology, or should I model these details in topology I already have? I just don't see how I can do that with so many details, please let me know If i am missing something here, Thanks in advance!

Neox · Jun 2023

whats the final usecase? do you want it all modelled as a solid chunk of geo in HP? or do you want it just baked into a normalmap?

DrBombs · Jun 2023

Neox said:

whats the final usecase? do you want it all modelled as a solid chunk of geo in HP? or do you want it just baked into a normalmap?

Just portfolio really, to show nice topology/ properly spread, no pinching in the shader, all quads maybe some tris and that's it, no baking, just the high poly

Neox · Jun 2023

then yeah i'd personally subdivide it once and work from there. if it was for normalmaps only i'd possibly go with a lot more trickery like using floaters.

DrBombs · Jun 2023

Neox said:

then yeah i'd personally subdivide it once and work from there. if it was for normalmaps only i'd possibly go with a lot more trickery like using floaters.

Thank you very much, is there something else other than shrink wrapping using a guide mesh to deal with pinching and so on?

ZacD · Jun 2023

The line work and bolt holes could be done with floaters but you'd still want to model in the large details.

sacboi · Jun 2023

DrBombs said:

is there something else other than shrink wrapping using a guide mesh to deal with pinching and so on?

Lots of handy tips here - https://polycount.com/discussion/comment/2773644/#Comment_2773644

plus this long running sub-d thread, as well - https://polycount.com/discussion/56014/how-the-f-do-i-model-this-reply-for-help-with-specific-shapes-post-attempt-before-asking/p182

Could also look into utilising modifiers and loop tools, when cutting inserts into curved surfaces whilst not incurring surface artifacts, in the process.

An example:

https://polycount.com/discussion/comment/2748609/#Comment_2748609

Is it ok to apply subdiv to have extra topology for small details?

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