Before diving deep into Three.js or React Three Fiber, it's crucial to grasp the fundamental concepts of 3D graphics. This section will lay the groundwork, explaining the core components that make up any 3D scene.
In 3D graphics, we use a 3D Cartesian coordinate system to define the position of objects in space. This system typically consists of three axes: X (horizontal), Y (vertical), and Z (depth). Understanding how these axes work is fundamental to positioning and manipulating objects in your scene.
A 3D scene is constantly being redrawn (rendered) to create the illusion of motion. The render loop is a continuous function that updates the scene, processes user input, and redraws the frame. Understanding the render loop is key to creating dynamic and interactive 3D experiences.
Consider creating a basic architectural visualization. You would start by defining the geometry of walls, floors, and ceilings. Then, you'd apply materials to give them realistic appearances. Adding lights would illuminate the space, and positioning a camera would allow viewers to explore the design. The render loop would continuously update the view as the user navigates.