3D rendering is the complex graphics process of converting 3D wire frame models into 2D images with 3D effects on a computer. This was our main focus for architectural visualization from 2012 until about 2016 when we migrated over to virtual reality workflows.
Rendering is similar to our final phase of “baking” in our process at SPACIALISTS. Prior to rendering an image in 3D, we would create a 2D wireframe that is representative of the space or scene. Then we apply textures and fabrics to complete the look. One of the biggest challenges with 3D rendering is that once you’ve chosen a camera angle, it is very difficult to move the camera for a different perspective. In virtual reality, once the model is finalized, we can place camera angles and save final images from any direction.
Rendering high quality 3D scenes can take several days for a single image or frame to process. In this way, changes you make that require new rendering processes can take a long time and affect deadlines. Be sure to work closely through approval rounds to streamline final rendering production if you’re choosing 3D rendering. In VR, the “baking” process takes only a fraction of the time and changes are more quickly implemented.