The top tips for rigging eyes in 3D models involve using eye-target constraints for realistic tracking, adding blend shapes for subtle expressions, and aligning rigs with the model’s anatomy to avoid distortion.
Eye-target constraints let eyes follow objects naturally, creating smooth, believable movement—essential for making eyes feel alive. Blend shapes (like squints or widening) add lifelike nuance; even 2-3 basic shapes help convey emotion effectively. Aligning rigs with eye sockets or bone structure prevents unnatural stretching during animation.
For beginners, start simple: use target constraints in software like Blender or Maya first, then add basic blend shapes before moving to complex setups.