So today I’m going to let you in on a little secret of mine, the basic steps I do to my architectural renderings to have them look more professional.  (Disclosure: In keeping in mind with how long this post COULD be,  I won’t be taking you through a detailed step-by-step process.  Just hitting the high notes! )

But this post should still give you an idea of the tools I use in order to render quality images for presentations.  I would just like to also add that I AM NOT a rendering professional by any means.  Doing 3D modeling is a part of my job that I can’t wait to do for most of my projects; it’s an escape from the 2D line drawings (and reality.)

1.  Model in SketchUp

I’m pretty sure every person in the architecture field has heard of or had at least some experience with SketchUp.  I first became acquainted with SketchUp in college, so I’ve been modeling through this software for about twelve years.

I’ll be the first one to say that one has to go through a lot of trail and error with this program.  Once you learn how to Layer and create Components you can really gain control over your model and any revisions that may come along the way (cause yes, clients do change their minds.)

It’s a great program for a lot of things, but you need to understand it’s limitation as well.  Curves for instance; it hates them.  Shadows; yeah they can make or break your model sometimes.

2.  Render in VRay

The magic of VRAY (aka the Secret Sauce!)  This is where the most ordinary SketchUp model can turn into an amazing rendering.

The most important part of rendering through this platform is mastering how to find, edit, and apply  material textures.  I’m still learning this with every project; but with practice comes skill!

Another amazing function of VRAY products concerns it’s lighting functions.  I’m not going to lie, I’m still honing in my skills with this.  But figuring out the basic type and uses for each light selection can really give a rendering that “little extra.”  Plus, you can begin to venture into modeling interiors (something I try to stay away from if I can help it!)

3.  Edit/Adjust in PhotoShop

Finally we are at the editing stage: Photoshop.  This is where I’ll ALWAYS add sky and trees and touch up anything else that is needed.  A few of my go-to commands in Photoshop: Contrast, Brightness, and Tone.  I can never leave a rendering without editing these options a little.

Once you’re done completing the final edits to your picture, make sure to flatten the image to help with size of the file and printing.

The last step, which is completely optional, is bringing your rendering into Illustrator to pace any logos or text on it.  The true cherry on top moment for me!  You can do this in Photoshop but it tends to get complicated with all the layers in the file, so I recommend using Illustrator if it’s available.

These are just the three main steps I do to create the renderings you may see on my blog.  It’s amazing how just a few steps can make all the difference with your presentations.

Let me know you thoughts or if you have any other useful rendering products or software you use!  I’d love to look into those as well!