
There are no rules in the world of hard surface modeling, but we can definitely recommend more than a few best practices to abide by in general: Each sub-element then becomes much easier to flesh out and adorn. Things that hinge are one easy distinction to make if it's supposed to come apart, that's one obvious line to draw. You can begin to break down your subject both by eye and by logic. Some knowledge of mechanics goes a long way the research will fascinate you if you find yourself inclined toward this type of subject. The more realism you're able to channel into your hard surface model, however, the more convincing and exciting it will be to behold and to utilize. Hard surface modeling isn't exactly CAD modeling, per se.

This mindset isn't very common for most 3D artists, the subject matter and style is the end-all, be-all here. Some professionals in the industry use a different definition geared more toward the rigor of production-a hard surface model is one that isn't rigged or deformed throughout its role in an animation or a game, but is instead just a static prop or environmental element.

Hard surface modeling in programs like ZBrush and Blender is something that you'll get to do any time you're creating something human-made and inorganic.
