To make a high poly 3D model look stylized, focus on exaggerating key features (e.g., proportions) and using non-realistic shading/textures (like cel-shading)—this shifts it from photorealism to an artistic style while keeping the model’s detail.
Stylization prioritizes mood over realism: keep the high poly’s structural depth but simplify or amplify elements (bold outlines, saturated hues) that match your vision instead of replicating real life.
For beginners, use tools like Blender’s Eevee toon shader or flat/hand-drawn textures—these let you add stylization without losing the model’s high poly detail.
By balancing these steps, you’ll retain the model’s depth while achieving a stylized look that aligns with your artistic goals.