Should You Use Renders?
Product photography often seems like the simpler choice – all you need is a camera, a studio and a product. However, it is worth considering when render is able to offer possibilities that are not always immediately available in photography. Like mockups, they allow you to present your product before it is even produced, testing different colour or material variants without incurring prototyping costs.
The Possibilities of Product Renders
- Presentation of variants – possibility to show all versions before the product is made
- Cross-sections – provide an opportunity to look inside the product
- Non-standard shots – perspectives or locations impossible to obtain in photography
- Rendered look – currently less and less desirable in the market, but still used for the ideal look of the product
- Real-time modifications – quick change of elements at the customer’s request
Rendering Software
Choosing the right software is crucial when creating product renders. There are many tools available on the market today that vary in their capabilities and sophistication.
Professional 3d Modelling and Rendering Software:
- Fusion 360 – popular with product designers, great for accurate technical modelling
- Solidworks – the industry standard, ideal for technical and mechanical products
- Rhinoceros (Rhino) – valued for its ability to model complex, organic shapes
- Blender – a free but powerful open source tool
- 3ds Max – a versatile program often used in product visualisation
When creating photorealistic renders, additional rendering engines are often used to significantly increase the quality of the final visualisations. The most popular of these are V-Ray, Corona Renderer or KeyShot, which offer advanced material and lighting capabilities.
For less complex products, simpler online tools such as Vectary or SelfCAD can also be considered. Although they have some limitations, they may be sufficient for basic product visualisations.
The Process of Creating Product Renders
Creating renders involves several key steps. First, an accurate 3D model of the product is created based on technical documentation. Next, materials and textures are applied as closely as possible to the actual surface properties. The next step is to set up the lighting and composition of the scene. The final step is the rendering process and eventual post-production.
Cost-Effectiveness of Renders
The cost of renders will definitely be higher than product photography. However, when you are considering using a 3D model in a product animation, for example, or the models will be used for product prototyping it can be a cost-effective prospect. A 3d model eliminates the costs associated with:
- Prototype production
- Storage of manufactured products
- Updating of frequently changing marketing materials
Applications for Renders
Product renders are used in many sectors. In the furniture industry, they allow entire collections to be presented without being physically manufactured. Electronics manufacturers use them to show the inside of devices. Food companies use renders for a variety of TV and online ad production.
Technical Challenges
Creating a photorealistic render requires specialist knowledge and the right software. Key challenges include:
- Accurate modelling of product geometry
- Correct reproduction of materials and textures
- Realistic lighting settings
- Optimisation of rendering times
- Consistency with the visual brand identity
How to Render?
To create a high-quality product render, proper preparation is essential. Accurate technical documentation of the product, including all dimensions and material specifications, is key. It is also worth collecting references on:
- Preferred shot angles
- Style of presentation
- Lighting and mood
- Context of product use
- Target use of renders
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of render?
To render means to create, generate, or produce something. In digital graphics, it refers to the process of generating a final image from 3D models or raw data. In art, rendering means creating a finished visual representation of an idea or concept.
What is render in graphics?
In graphics, rendering is the process of creating a final image or animation from a 3D model using computer software. It involves calculating lighting, textures, shadows, and materials to produce a photorealistic or stylized image from digital data.
What does it mean to render a drawing?
To render a drawing means to add shading, color, texture, and other details to create a more complete and finished artwork. It transforms a basic sketch or outline into a fully realized image with depth and dimension.
What does render mean in work?
In a work context, to render means to provide a service or deliver a final product. It can refer to completing a task, delivering a finished project, or presenting work in its final form. The term implies bringing something to completion.
What is it to render something?
To render something means to transform it from one state to another, typically creating a final version. This can include creating artwork, processing digital images, providing services, or converting raw materials into a finished product.
What does render mean in production?
In production, rendering refers to the final processing stage where raw materials or content are transformed into a finished product. This could be creating final video footage, processing 3D animations, or converting digital designs into physical products.
