Lately we’ve been kicking around modeling and presentation standards through customer and artist surveys, on our forums, in our Knowledge Base, and even internally at TurboSquid. One debate still raging is about the wireframe turntable, a 360-degree view of a 3D model in wireframe mode. You can see examples in the product previews for these 3D models.
One of our staff, one of the wisest and most experienced people here, thinks that all 3D models for sale at TurboSquid should have wireframe turntables. (Okay, I admit it, it’s me. But there has to be some advantage to writing this blog, right?) Other persons, equally as wise and experienced, think wireframe turntables are nice to have, but aren’t necessary.
Besides the fact that making wireframe turntables is a lot of work, some artists are concerned that such a detailed visual reference will make it too easy for lazy artists to copy their work. I don’t think it will make a difference; copycats will always copy, and those that don’t copy aren’t going to start because of wireframe turntables. However, enough of our artists are concerned for me to open up the question again.
I’d like to hear from some of our customers. Would you be more likely to buy a 3D model with a wireframe turntable if you were comparing two comparable models, one with and one without? Does a wireframe turntable contribute so much to the preview that you really want them in all the 3D models you search for, or is it fine to just have a few wireframe stills? When responding, please indicate whether you’re a customer, an artist, or both.