Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Forms
Working from big shapes to small details
Also known as: Primary forms · Secondary forms · Tertiary forms · Sculpting workflow big to small · Sculpt blocking · Form hierarchy
Definition
Primary, secondary and tertiary forms describe the levels of detail in a sculpt. Primary forms are the large masses and overall proportions, such as the head, torso and limbs. Secondary forms are the medium shapes within them, such as muscle groups, the jaw, folds of cloth and armor plates. Tertiary forms are the fine detail, such as pores, wrinkles, scratches and stitching. Working in this order gives a sculpt a clear structure and prevents getting lost in detail.
In production
Block the primary forms at a very low resolution, check the silhouette and proportions from every angle, then move to secondary forms, and only afterward add tertiary details with alphas and fine brushes. Do not move on until the current level reads well. The same hierarchy applies to hard-surface models, environments and even textures, where large shapes of value and color come before small marks.
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Tools that use Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Forms
See also
Sculpt Looks Lumpy or Mushy
Soft, noisy forms without clear planes
DynaMesh
ZBrush dynamic re-meshing
SubTool
Separate mesh inside a ZBrush project
Silhouette
The readable outline of a shape
Anatomy Landmarks for 3D Artists
Bony points and muscle groups that guide a sculpt
Multires Modifier
Sculpt at several subdivision levels