Posted: June 13, 2019 By: GSW Animation

This guide will help to explain the following ideas in layman terms:

Let's dive in!

The Basic Meaning of the Term 3D Rendering

To start, “rendering” is just a fancy way of saying "to make" or, "cause to become".

With regards to the term 3D Rendering, we are simply using computer software to help us produce an image or video (which is simply a collection of images being shown in rapid succession) based on three dimensional shapes (referred to as a 3D model).

The rendering software assists us by calculating a variety of different elements, including, the 3D shape, the texture of the object(s), the lighting in the image and the surrounding environment. Once these calculations are made, the software will spit out the resulting image, a 3D Render.

*Did you know some still image renders created by Pixar for “Monsters University” took upwards of 30 hours to produce a single frame? If a single CPU would have rendered the movie it would have taken around 10,000 years to complete.

What is needed to create a 3D Rendering:

In order to create a single image or “rendering” we must have the following in place in the 3D Scene.

(more information and the definitions of these items below)

• A 3D Model – This is a shape or collection of shapes in the 3D space from which the render is based upon

• Texture – All 3D models contain some type of texture, whether it is a dull white material with no reflectivity, an image projected onto a 3d model or a more complex material such as a liquid, all visible objects have some degree of textural information
  
• Lighting/Environment – Without light in a 3D scene the image is just completely black. The environment is what is going to be reflected in objects and provides context to the shapes as well as subtle light bounces from the surroundings. (These environments can often be faked by using HDRI images)
  
• A camera – The virtual camera in a 3D scene acts almost identically to a real world camera and is the basis from which the rendered image is taken from.

Here's a real world example of what 3D Rendering is:

As I have an art background, the most simplistic way to conceptualize rendering for me is this comparison to the drawing process:

Step 1:

While sketching a face on a piece of paper I may rough in the outlines and general 2 dimensional elements. (This would be analogous to the modeling process in 3D)

Step 2:

Once that outline is complete, I would move on to adding specific details to the face. (texture to the skin, details to the eyes, shading and highlights to the nose etc.)This second step can also be called “rendering” when drawing or painting.

And that is 3D Rendering in a nutshell. It's that simple.

Key 3D Rendering terms you need to know

If you're still getting used to the world of 3D, there are number of confusing technical terms. This can become quite daunting.

For that reason I've put together a quick list of common terms used in 3D.

The following can be variations of the term "3D Rendering"

• 3D
• CG (Computer Graphics)
• CGI (Computer Generated Imagery)
• 3D Illustration
• 3D Visualization
• Computer Rendering
• Graphic Rendering

Architectural Rendering

This refers to creating an image (or animation) of a structure using 3D rendering technology. Architectural renderings can come in a variety of styles, including realistic, water colour, stylized, and line drawing.

Architects, realtors, builders and developers are the main clients for this service.

Synonyms or similar general meanings:

3D Modeling

Modeling in 3D refers to the process of creating a virtual three dimensional set of shapes. This is generally the first process to creating a 3D rendering. Think of this as the foundation or "skeleton" of the 3D rendering process.

As a drawing/ painting analogy, this is the stage where you create a rough outline of shapes.

3D Texturing

Texturing in 3D refers to the addition of a two dimensional image to a three dimensional shape known as a 3D model.

If modeling in 3D is the metaphorical "skeleton" then texturing is the skin.

Product Rendering

This refers to the creation of product images using 3D Rendering software. These product renders often show new products or devices. The main purpose of this is to replace or augment the need for product photography.

3D Floorplan

A 3D floorplan is an image which showcases a full floor of a building from the top down.

Imaging this image as though you were viewing a dollhouse with the roof removed.

These images allow clients a visual of the space to see how the space fits together.

How 3D Rendering may quietly impact our day to day life

3D Rendering is something that is all around us every day, yet often times we do not even notice it is there. From the latest episode of Game of Thrones to the signage around a new construction site, the uses seem to be endless.

Here are a few of the various applications of 3D Rendering:

Different types of 3D Rendering software

There are many types of programs that can create 3D renderings. Each application is going to have its own strengths and weaknesses.

How to get started in 3D Rendering

Are you ready to give 3D Rendering a try for yourself?

You're in luck, there are many different exciting fields available for 3D artists.

Here is a small list of potential jobs

The first step is to learn strong fundamentals in 3D software while sharpening up on your creativity skills.

Learn as many different techniques and rendering programs as possible.

YouTube offers countless tutorials to help get you on your way.

Here is a small checklist of items to cross off when you're building a new scene:

At the end of the day, the only question that matters is...

• Do your renders look good?

Once you figure out the basics of a 3D program the real key is practice. Working in 3D is one part computer science and one part artistic endeavor. As with any artistic discipline, the more you do it the better you get. (as long as you continue to challenge your skills)

Job Prospects in 3D Rendering:

Although working in the 3D rendering field can be rewarding, it can also have it's challenges.

I began my journey in 3D Rendering by enrolling in an animation school. These types of schools often charge a lot of money and offer no real guarantee you will be successful.

Unlike many of other industries at the end of your program your piece of paper doesn't mean a lot. Employment is generally based on a demo reel or portfolio, not your GPA. 3D rendering is a results driven industry which can be great, but as with any art there is a level of subjectivity. This can be frustrating when job hunting but with a positive attitude and serious skill there are opportunities to be had.

Here are a few different career possibilities as a 3D artist:

OK, So you've managed to become good enough to get hired in 3D.

Congratulations.

What can you expect as an employee?

Glassdoor notes the average base salary in California at around $76,000 per year.

Along with a competitive salary many 3D companies make an effort to allow a good work life balance. Top companies pride themselves on having a kick-ass office with a relaxed vibe. That being said, when a deadline is there expect to work as long as it takes to finish the job.

3D Rendering in 2019

3D Rendering is an industry which is evolving quickly. In the last 10 years we’ve seen countless advancements, an ever changing landscape of new programs and new demands. Now in 2019 3D rendering is a big part of exciting emerging technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality.

Creating 3D Renders continues to be made easier and more accessible while realism and speed continue to increase. Over the next few years elements in video games and movies are going to continue to creep towards realism until they are indistinguishable from the real thing.

As a 3D artist you must stay on your toes with the newest technology, however, the fundamentals of good art and technical abilities remain key.

As a 3D Rendering company we are constantly evolving and looking to perfect our services.

Have any questions? Let us know! Email us at info@gswanimation.com