Production Overview

Here’s a quick overview of the typical production process in outline form – see the subsequent chapters for more detailed information.

All the pre-production work is done, and now it’s time to get to work on the real objective: creating great 3D imagery. In order for us to have a roadmap for the information to follow (or in case you’re in a hurry), here’s the quick overview of the whole process.

• We import the data into our 3D modeling software
• We build the 3D model of the client’s design
• When we’re finished with the model, we apply grayscale placeholder materials, add the necessary lighting, and send renderings to the client. This allows the client to review our model and verify we have everything right. We don’t add textures yet because it can waste time if we have to revise the model.
• We revise the model if necessary.
• Once the modeling is correct and approved, we add textures. We render the model and send a draft to the client for review and comments.
• If the rendering is an exterior shot, we add a sky, landscaping and secondary elements like people, cars and ‘street furniture’, for example benches, signs and light poles. These ancillary elements are referred to as ‘entourage’.
• If the rendering is an interior image, we add furniture, appliances, window coverings, rugs, etc., and any other entourage appropriate to the scene.
• Once all the scene elements are in place, we render a draft final. This is a chance for the client to make any minor adjustments before we render the final.
• The final is rendered and then goes through a post-production phase. Using image editing software like Photoshop, the image is fine tuned for brightness, contrast, hue and saturation. We can also add special effects like distance blur and light glows.
• The final is sent to the client