3D printing is fast becoming an essential addition to many industries. The sophisticated technology allows certain businesses to create prototypes easily, saving much time and minimizing waste. But how exactly do 3D printers work and what is rendering?
You may not have realized it, but you very likely have seen 3D images in everyday life. Billboards, social media and animations on TV have been using 3D technology for years. CGI has created some awesome entertainment, but 3D printing has taken the process one step further.
3D rendering refers to the process of turning a 3D model into a 2D image. It is a crucial part of advertising in the modern world and is used by marketers, content creators and the like. 3D rendering can be used to create many images, such as non-realistic images or photorealistic. The photorealistic image produces an image that, to the naked eye, doesn’t look 3D and looks like a real photo. In the past, the rendering process was only available to those with big budgets and lots of resources. Nowadays, 3D rendering is more accessible using 3D printers and companies can produce images without blowing their entire budget. How does it work?
How Does It Work?
The rendering process involves a combination of software, artistry, and strategy. It’s important to have the right software and tools to create a product that is appealing to potential buyers. What’s the first step?
Modelling
In the modelling stage, the 3D project needs to be represented digitally. This process is mathematically challenging and involves representing the surface of the object. 3D model artists typically use specialized computer software to achieve this.
Texturing
Texturing uses software to map the surface of the 3D object or scene. This works by gathering information about the color and light that provide brain signals about the existence of textures. Texturing is essential for photorealistic images to create a natural visual.
Lighting
This part of the rendering process uses software algorithms to represent professional and natural light sources. They use motion blur and refraction to create an illusion that an image is 3 dimensional.
Rendering
The actual rendering part of image production is where you use software that takes the model and converts it into an image that can be used in various visual content.
Refining
Refining is the process of tidying up any loose ends and fine-tuning the appearance. It may include extra texturing, changing lighting and other editing techniques. It’s the final touches that make an image look clear and real. Once the image has been rendered, it can be used in a variety of applications.
How Long Does The Process Take?
The length of time to render an image is dependent on a few factors such as software, starting point and context. For example, if a brand wants to render images for their catalog, the job could be completed over a weekend if there are no additional problems. They can then replace images that were captured during a normal photoshoot. This provides a much quicker option for image production.
Another rendering option allows shoppers to customize products in real time whilst browsing a business website. Interactive 3D is becoming increasingly popular and can create rendering instantly in real time. Users are able to make changes immediately and are able to see what products look like in different colors and formats etc.
Rendering images from the beginning will take longer than if you already had an image file. Creating the initial model takes time and effort, so expect to spend a fair amount of time from start to finish.
Costs
3D rendering is much more accessible these days, but costs will depend on how you want to use the rendered image. One big advantage of rendered imagery is that it’s a lot cheaper than traditional photography and takes less time. Normal photography will limit you to what the photographer captures, and you have little flexibility with images. Creating a 3D image allows you to experiment and manipulate the image to get it right.
In today’s world shoppers are keen to utilize online interactive content, so videos are popular, however videos are expensive and require considerable bandwidth that can put some people off. 3D technology provides a great alternative as customers can manipulate images in a small file format which requires fewer data than videos.
When deciding whether to invest in rendered images, it’s useful to remember that studies show 3D imagery can increase website traffic and conversions, making it a lucrative business decision due to the accuracy and clarity of images.
Creating files through 3D rendering benefits brands greatly in this technological world. It allows them to have the basis of creating high quality visual content on an ongoing basis and opens up options such as using AR and VR, which are becoming very popular in the world of digital content. Having the right digital setup will ensure that businesses are ready to keep up with competition and offer customers the very latest features in development.
How Is It Being Used?
As well as the usual industries such as film, gaming, entertainment etc. 3D rendering is being utilized by a selection of other industries such as:
Architecture
Engineering
Real estate
Retail
Aeronautics
Medical
Final Thoughts
Rendering is making a massive difference in these industries and providing better customer service and satisfaction. It is becoming the answer to translating complex visual details and making products and services more accessible to service users and buyers.
It is especially useful for users who struggle absorbing information through the written word. Endless reading on websites and in ecommerce can be off-putting and potentially lose customers. Visual learners will greatly value clear and crisp visuals and will be able to interpret ideas better than information provided in text format, and many will be encouraged by this offering from businesses. A better understanding of information will create more customers, boost sales and increase revenue.
3D printers are proving to be an invaluable way of rendering images and saving companies much time and money. Why not invest in one today and watch your business grow and succeed?
Hi, my name is Michael Moore, and I have been 3D printing for a number of years now. I have created many cool gadgets over the years, but my current passion is creating one of a kind jewelry pieces. They can be so intricate and beautiful that many people wouldn't believe they are 3D printed.
Through Love and Robots, I hope to share my knowledge with others, and provide advice about everything 3D printer related.
