More than a model.
Evolving
over the years from novelty, to acceptance, to requirement, no design
package is complete without some degree of Design Visualization.
I have spent many years working toward advanced solutions
in all aspects of 3D modeling, rendering, and animation,
primarially for architecture, but all design disciplines may be
covered.
Modeling capabilities include Architectural, Structural, and
Civil design projects, as well as specialty support in the creation of
models representing Vehicles (Land, Sea, Air), People, Furniture,
Vegetation and Landscape. Support is offered for
contracturally required renderings and animations, RFP and project
pursuit efforts, design concept exploration, and general image, video,
and audio editing.
Design videos are no longer the boring, motion-sickness inducing walk-throughs of just a few years ago. Think more along the lines of a short movie, or a long TV commercial (the good ones). The animator plays the role of Set Designer, Prop Master, Casting Agent, Light Rigger, Camera Operator, Stunt Coordinator, and Director. The Project Manager is the Producer. You provide the background infromation and as much or as little guidance as needed to achieve the best possible end product. You know the client and the overall project best, therefore you issue necessary course corrections as you see fit during development.
Video projects are more than 3D animation. They also include photography, diagrams, live video, narration, and background music, all of which are generated and/or processed in-house. Script development is generated from Basis of Design or Concept Documents, with collaboration by the project manager, and is recorded in a state-of-the-art audio facility.
The design model is just one piece of the puzzle, and is presented within the framework of the story of the project - Who, Where, and Why. Depending on the specific goals of the video (or rendering) and its intended audience, When, and How may also play a role. The standard formula for a video includes:
- Introduction - Project name and location, and any client background information
- Background information regarding the intended users of the project - who they are, what they do, how they have done it in the past and present. Any user input is very useful in this section. This can be a big factor in selling the project for videos intended to get funding for a construction project at a congressional level, or through state or local governments.
- Project location - the geographic location, as well as the specific site location and orientation within the city or installation.
- Site demolition and development - what is there now, what needs to be removed, special considerations (environmental, military force protection, unusual construction issues), new sitework (roads, walkways, parking, water features, landscaping), orientation of new construction and connections/interactions with existing features. This is usually accomplished with aerial protography overlayed with diagrams, and integrated with plan view graphics generated from the 3D model of the site. Existing condition photos taken during site visits may be included here.
- The Main Event - the warm up is over, time for the show. The new construction 3D model(s) is displayed in all its glory, the extent of which may be guided by the project manager. This may include exterior views fully integrated with a synthetic model of the site and surrounding area, and fully developed interior views of the most significant rooms and spaces. Exterior views will include appropriate vehicles, landscaping, organics (people, animals, featured veggies), and anything else deemed necessary. Interior views are fully populated with furnishings, electronics, people, and specialty items (machinery, exercise equipment, art - anything is possible)
- Conclusion - recap the benefits of the project and how it will make the world a better place. Visually take a last look at the overall picture of the project and proceed with departure. Final mention and display of logos for clients and supporting agencies.
