Save Time and Money on Your Next 3D Rendering and Animation
by Steve Ormonde on 03/15/10 at 12:46 pm
One of the bigger challenges we face in producing 3D architectural animations and renderings may surprise you, and it could save you time and money. It is the collection of information!
A very common scenario goes something like this: You’re about to launch your new project and are anxious to prepare the visuals that will be necessary for your audience to understand your plans. You identify a 3D company that can create these images, request a proposal and are ready to roll. The contract is approved and you request a delivery of X weeks which will get you the architectural animation or rendering just in time and away you go! Or so you think…
The 3D company you hired starts requesting all sorts of information that you thought was “ready”: CAD floor plans and elevations, complete finish specifications, sequence sheets, and more. You do your best to collect the information only to find out that your exterior colors have not been selected. And now your imagery is stalled.
Another common situation we experience is during various approval stages. These generally fall into two categories for us: 1) Comments are not returned by the date agreed which delays the final delivery or 2) comments trickle in from multiple sources (the architect, the interior designer, the boss!) which causes both a delay and additional expense.
So what is the take away? Here are two key elements to ensuring timely production of your imagery:
1. Materials
When kicking off a 3D rendering or animation project, think about what you would see if the project was actually built (ie, roof material, window styles, light fixtures, appliances and cabinetry to name just a few) and be prepared to gather this information for your vendor. (A special note here! Most 3D companies can fill in the blanks if your specifications are not completed. However, be prepared to spend a little more if they are required to make design iterations).
2. Timely and Concise Reviews
As soon as you learn of your review dates, put them on your calendar and alert your team. When reviewing the imagery, be sure your comments are clear and comprehensive. Don’t wait for the second review stage to bring in others! At that point, your comments may cost you both time and additional fees.
Following these guidelines will not only get you the imagery you need when you need it, they will also save you cash, and peace of mind!
