To me personally – It all depends on what:
– your own personal preference is.
– you want to do with the characters when they are finished later.
I can imagine that – if you already have some real-life sculpting experience – then try that out first… or..
Being with a (series of) very small not-to-complex 3D models.
– Try both mesh and sculpt parallel to another to
– Experience what FEELS best for you (and this can change over time).
Just go ahead and try, fail many times and feel what method works right for you.
