How to Export as OBJ in ZBrush

Exporting a Model as OBJ in ZBrush: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding OBJ Files
OBJ files are a widely used format in 3D modeling, particularly in professional environments. This format can store polygonal 3D data, including vertex positions, UV coordinates, normals, and material information. To share your work or use it in other applications, exporting your model as an OBJ file from ZBrush is essential.

Preparation for Export
Before initiating the export process, ensure your model is ready. Here are the prerequisites:

1. Finalize Your Model: Ensure you are satisfied with the model’s details and textures. Finalize any sculpting or painting work you have done.
2. Check Polygroups and UVs: If your workflow involves different polygroups or UV layouts, make sure they are set correctly. You can display polygroups by activating the “Polygroups” option in the Transform palette.

Step-by-Step Export Process
Follow these detailed steps to successfully export your ZBrush model as an OBJ file:

1. Open the Export Menu
   Start by navigating to the top menu bar and selecting ‘File.’ In the dropdown menu, locate and click on ‘Export.’ This action opens the export settings for your model.

2. Select File Destination and Name
   A dialog box will appear, prompting you to choose the location on your computer where you want to save the file. Use the “Save As” dialog to select a specific folder, and enter an appropriate name for your OBJ file. Ensure that the file type dropdown is set to ‘OBJ’ to confirm the export format.

3. Set Export Options
   Before finalizing the export, decide on the settings for the OBJ file:

   • Export Textures: If your model has textures, ensure the ‘Export Textures’ option is checked. This will bundle the necessary texture maps alongside the OBJ.
   • Export Polygroups: If you want to retain your polygroups, enable the ‘Export Polygroups’ option. This is particularly useful for further detailing in other 3D applications.

4. Choose Additional Export Parameters
   Depending on your requirements, you might want to adjust further export options, such as:

   • Include Normals: Ensures the normals of your model are preserved.
   • Export as Qudraw: Useful for specific techniques where vertex painting is involved.

5. Finalize the Export
   Once you’ve adjusted all the necessary settings, click the ‘Save’ button. ZBrush will process the export, and your model will be saved as an OBJ file at your chosen location.

6. Validation
   After exporting, it’s advisable to open the OBJ file in another 3D software to ensure that all details, including textures and normals, have been exported correctly.

Tips for a Successful Export

• Test Exports: It’s beneficial to do test exports of smaller or simpler models to familiarize yourself with the export process.
• Optimize Your Model: Consider optimizing your model before export, particularly if you plan to use it in game engines or other visualization software.

FAQ

1. Can I export multiple Subtools as a single OBJ file?
   Yes, ZBrush allows you to merge your Subtools before export into a single OBJ. This can be done through the ‘Merge’ functionality, but be aware that details may be lost during this process.

2. Does the OBJ format support animations?
   No, the OBJ format does not support animations. If you require animated content, consider using formats like FBX, which can accommodate mesh animations and rigging data.

3. Will my materials be preserved in the exported OBJ?
   While OBJ files can store material references, the specific settings and properties tied to ZBrush materials are not directly transferable. Textures will need to be reapplied in the target software.