3D computer graphics (in contrast to 2D computer graphics) are graphics that use a three-dimensional representation

of geometric data that is stored in the computer for the purposes of performing calculations and rendering 2D

images. Such images may be for later display or for real-time viewing. Despite these differences, 3D computer

graphics rely on many of the same algorithms as 2D computer vector graphics in the wire-frame model and 2D computer

raster graphics in the final rendered display. In computer graphics software, the distinction between 2D and 3D is

occasionally blurred; 2D applications may use 3D techniques to achieve effects such as lighting, and primarily 3D

may use 2D rendering techniques. 3D computer graphics are often referred to as 3D models. Apart from the rendered

graphic, the model is contained within the graphical data file. However, there are differences. A 3D model is the

mathematical representation of any three-dimensional object (either inanimate or living). A model is not technically

a graphic until it is visually displayed. Due to 3D printing, 3D models are not confined to virtual space. A model

can be displayed visually as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering, or used in non-graphical

computer simulations and calculations.
The process of creating 3D computer graphics can be sequentially divided into three basic phases: 3D modeling which

describes the process of forming the shape of an object, layout and animation which describes the motion and

placement of objects within a scene, and 3D rendering which produces an image of an object.
The model describes the process of forming the shape of an object. The two most common sources of 3D models are

those originated on the computer by an artist or engineer using some kind of 3D modeling tool, and those scanned

into a computer from real-world objects. Models can also be produced procedurally or via physical simulation.
Before objects are rendered, they must be placed (laid out) within a scene. This is what defines the spatial

relationships between objects in a scene including location and size. Animation refers to the temporal description

of an object, i.e., how it moves and deforms over time. Popular methods include keyframing, inverse kinematics, and

motion capture, though many of these techniques are used in conjunction with each other. As with modeling, physical

simulation is another way of specifying motion.
Rendering converts a model into an image either by simulating light transport to get photorealistic images, or by

applying some kind of style as in non-photorealistic rendering. The two basic operations in realistic rendering are

transport (how much light gets from one place to another) and scattering (how surfaces interact with light). This

step is usually performed using 3D computer graphics software or a 3D graphics API. The process of altering the

scene into a suitable form for rendering also involves 3D projection which allows a three-dimensional image to be

viewed in two dimensions.
There are a multitude of websites designed to help educate and support 3D graphic artists. Some are managed by

software developers and content providers, but there are standalone sites as well (such as Renderosity). These

communities allow for members to seek advice, post tutorials, provide product reviews or post examples of their own

work.
Not all computer graphics that appear 3D are based on a wireframe model. 2D computer graphics with 3D photorealistic

effects are often achieved without wireframe modeling and are sometimes indistinguishable in the final form. Some

graphic art software includes filters that can be applied to 2D vector graphics or 2D raster graphics on transparent

layers. Visual artists may also copy or visualize 3D effects and manually render photorealistic effects without the

use of filters. See also still life