Post-processing of 3D visualizations usually creates the very atmosphere in the picture that impresses the viewers. This is a polishing process, the most successful accessory, the final chord – call it what you will. Below, we’ll tell you why post-processing is so important and why it’s worth the time spent on it.
"And a Little Bit of Magic..." - Why Post-Processing is Important in Architectural 3D Visualization
Post-processing in architectural 3D visualization is the final and undoubtedly decisive stage in the creation of 3D architectural visualization. The VisEngine Digital Solutions team closely monitors every stage of CGI production, including post-processing, as it affects the overall appeal, atmosphere, and effectiveness of visual perception. During post-production, CGI really comes to life as important details and visual effects are added to it. So, what is this process and how can it turn a render into a RENDER?
During CGI post-production, the artist uses specialised software to enhance the image by adjusting visual effects. This is the process of putting the finishing touches to the work. In general, post-production plays a key role in creating the mood of CGI. It allows artists to turn renders into photorealistic images. So, what exactly happens during CGI post-production?
Enriching the details
At this stage, you can use a technique known as image matching. This involves seamlessly combining a 3D rendering of the future building with a photograph that serves as a background. Although it is possible to create a complete 3D environment, using a real photograph usually gives a much more realistic effect. In addition, this approach significantly reduces the price of rendering.
During post-production, it is also possible to add secondary objects extracted from photos. People, animals, plants, or vehicles can be easily integrated into an image using Photoshop. This technique avoids cluttering up the 3D scene with unnecessary details, and ultimately reduces rendering time.
Enhancing visual properties
Adjusting colours and other visual properties is a key aspect of post-production. You can change the brightness, contrast, saturation, colour balance, and exposure for the entire image or individual elements. These settings are especially important when merging renderings with photos, ensuring a seamless, holistic integration.
Adjusting lights and shadows is another important aspect of post-production. Despite the advancements in 3D rendering software, it can be difficult to accurately recreate real-world lighting conditions. Manual adjustments during post-production allow you to fine-tune the desired parameters. When properly adjusted, the image is guaranteed to retain the logic of the real world. For example, artificial lighting should not be brighter than the sun. You can also adjust the hues and saturation to achieve a specific look and atmosphere.
Create a real-life photo effect
Finishing touches help create a sense of photorealism. If you want, you can add certain effects, such as grain or noise, to mimic imperfections found in real photos.
For example, highlights and reflections are used to enhance the visual appeal of specific objects in an image. These effects add realism and depth to the final image.
Motion blur is especially effective in architectural 3D visualization when contrasting a stationary building model with vehicles moving around. This technique mimics the blurring effect seen in long exposure photographs.
The depth-of-field effect blurs the background, creating a pronounced contrast with the foreground, where elements remain in focus. Distortion, lens flare, bokeh and chromatic effects mimic the look of real camera shots, further enhancing the authenticity of the visuals.
Finally, post-production allows you to integrate a brand's logo or text into a CGI image.
Post-production of 3D visualizations is an important stage where all CGI elements are harmoniously combined with each other. Post-production greatly improves the quality and atmosphere of the rendering, and any architect or designer who works with an experienced rendering studio will undoubtedly appreciate the difference between the before and after images.
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