We have to start somewhere, whether it be from full architects plans and elevations or a simple sketch idea which you would like to develop.
Our typical workflow is outlined below however we are very flexible and can work around client needs.
1. Receipt of digital plans and elevations or printed drawings (which can be hand drawn). Agree material finishes such as brick type and colours etc. These can be in a simple list format or website reference links showing similar finishes to what the client would like to achieve.
2. We will discuss in detail exactly what the image(s) will be used for, are they to aid a planning application, help with marketing or simply so you can understand how something is going to look before being built or manufactured. We will then agree view points, meaning from which direction you would like to see your building or product viewed from. In simplest terms this is like taking a photograph of the end product. We will then determine the level of detail required which will have a direct impact on cost, this would normally depend on how detailed you would like to go but bear in mind we can adjust levels of detail if costs need to be reduced. If the image is required to be photo matched (photomontage) into it's site context or superimposed into a studio set we can arrange for photography. It is preferable we undertake this as it will give us a better understanding of the site or product. If however you prefer to organise your own photography, it is best to commission a professional photographer who can provide hi resolution shots and also provide exacting camera data which will be used in view matching. It is note advisable to use photographs taken using point and shoot cameras, this will have a detrimental effect on the final output of the rendered image.
3. A fee will be agreed.
4. Work will begin on the modelling of the areas which will appear in the agreed viewpoint, it is worth noting at this point it is more cost effective to agree multiple views upfront. Adding view points later will increase cost to a slightly higher level than if they were agreed upfront.
5. A low resolution draft image will be emailed to you showing the form of the model, it is at this point design can be clarified with any amendments taking place. We do allow for 2 or 3 design changes within reason, it is inevitable that once you see your design in high detail for the first time you may want to tweak a few areas. If we feel the design amendments are too major or are becoming too many an additional fee will need to be agreed to cover the additional modelling.
6. Once the model is agreed work will begin on adding finishing touches such as photorealistic surfacing, lighting and view setup.
7. The final image will be emailed upon completion and within the agreed time frame in a Jpeg format.
We can accept digital files of various formats whether they are 2d AutoCAD files or 3d SketchUp files, please get in touch to discuss if you are not sure.
