Tips for creating stunning 3D architectural renderings

3D architectural renderings have become an increasingly popular tool for architects to show clients what a finished project would look like, in a more realistic way than using artist models or drawings. But for an architectural representation to be successful, it must be as photorealistic as possible. Here are some tips for achieving a higher level of realism in your 3d rendering.

1. Bevel its edges. Even on man-made objects, there are no perfectly sharp edges. By beveling its edges with a chamfer tool in the rendering software, it not only makes your rendering more realistic, but also brings out more detail by allowing the edges to capture reflections from your light source.

2. Do not use 100% black or white colors. To show that an object has volume, it must have halftone highlight and shaded areas for contrast. If you have a completely black virtual material, your model will be flat because the differences between the shaded areas and the mid-tones will not be visible. The same with a completely white model, except that in this case, the differences between the mid-tones and light areas are not visible.

3. Use a blurred background or depth of field effects in your 3D architectural renderings, as a certain amount of blur is associated with real-life photographs to indicate movement. You can apply depth effects during actual rendering or add them in post-production using the lens blur and z-depth pass functions.

4. Use specular maps. These maps add more realism to your representations by telling the renderer which parts should have high brightness (secularity) and which should be more diffuse. But you can also use specular maps to represent objects that are supposed to have a uniform finish, such as ceramic, by highlighting natural irregularities like strokes and scratches.

5. Use shadows on the area. When rendering outdoors, you need to know what time it is supposed to be in order to reflect it in the cast shadows. For example, if it is supposed to be in the morning, the shadows should be soft and not clearly defined. On the other hand, at noon, the shadows are clear. The type of lighting you use in rendering is something you should also consider; For example, sunlight creates softer shadows compared to artificial lighting, which can cast a sharper shadow.

6. Add dirt and clutter to the image. In real life, even things that are supposed to be new are not blank and will have blemishes. So add these details to your renderings, like little cracks. Or when making a part, avoid making it too sharp by adding messy details like some scattered objects.

7. Include asymmetry. In nature, things are never completely symmetrical. So once you're done with your 3D architectural rendering, add an asymmetric variation to make them more realistic.