3D Wallpaper

Computer wallpaper has evolved mightily from its early days in the mid-1970s. Then, simply a way to distinguish a computer’s background from window applications, it is now a way to represent the computer user’s style, personality, occupation, and dreams. What’s more, there seems an infinite number of designs to choose from today, including 3D wallpaper.

Raster graphics or bitmaps are typically used for computer wallpapers. These pixel-composed graphics can usually be scaled to fit a computer screen’s resolution (e.g. 1280x1024 pixels) without much distortion. Widescreen monitors (16:9 aspect ratio) require a different size of graphic to cover the desktop’s entire space; however, most graphics can accommodate this. Other image-file types include PNG and JPEG.

Computer wallpaper designs range from sports teams to cute animals to family photos. As well, 3D images are common, with artists working with computer graphics (CG) as well as 2D mediums created in a way for 3D effect. Designs can readily be found online and most are copyrighted by the artist. Some require a purchase, but there are many sites offering 3D wallpapers for free.

Computer graphic artists create 3D designs via a three-step process: Modeling, layout and animation, and rendering. The first step creates the 3D model, the second step sets the spacial relationship for the model within an environment, and the third step produces the image. The first and second step work in conjunction to manipulate the 3D object/model within a select space. The model can be rotated and moved like a real object, only limited by the geometric environment determined by the graphic artist.

Artists of 2D images can sometimes implement 3D techniques to achieve similar effects. For instance, a painter may produce a 3D wallpaper by applying a few 3D techniques to a two-dimensional painting. The result is 3D, with the image living within a three-dimensional – rather than a flat 2D – space.

When searching online, make sure to include keywords to narrow down query results. For instance, search for “3D wallpaper” and “3D desktop.” These should produce a good set of sites to browse through and compare from. Remember to be mindful of copyright restrictions.