Photorealism is the goal of many architectural visualization projects. It allows clients to truly envision what a space will look and feel like before it’s built. Here are some key tips to achieve a more realistic rendered style:
1. Materials
The most fundamental element is ensuring high-quality textures and materials. Researchers should source authentic texture maps of all proposed surface materials from manufacturer websites or by photographing physical samples. All materials need realistic physical properties defined, such as reflectivity, roughness, refractive index, and behaviours like wear over time. Clients can immediately identify if a material doesn’t look genuine.
2. Lighting
Lighting is arguably the most critical factor in reaching photorealism. Natural lighting conditions should be carefully studied and recreated using multiple light sources placed in the correct positions. Soft indirect lighting, realistic shadows with sharp edges, and subtle God rays from windows must come through Ray Tracing engines for full global illumination. This step brings spaces to life in a lifelike manner.
3. Details
Intricate detail modelling is a must to achieve photorealism. Photogrammetry allows the import of physical detail elements like railings, furniture and plants with their true microscopic imperfections. Increased polygon counts on close-up elements like trim work avoid low-poly simplified assets’ “plastic” look. Rough, worn, or weathered surfaces impart a sense of genuine realism lacking in clean new materials.
4. Post-Processing
By bringing images into Photoshop, slight film grains, lens dirt, noise and natural shadows/highlights can be layered on. Caustics, refraction and scene-appropriate bloom/glow extend realism. Volumetric lights and atmospheric effects such as fog and haze can also enhance mood using ray tracing solutions.
5. Composition
Situating the viewer at eye level with the correct perspective results in a realistic perception of scale. The wider field of views captured from within an embodied point of view is more immersive than an impersonal top-down perspective. Context outside windows should be visible to suggest a wider setting. Interior flows should seamlessly relate to external forms, volumes and landscaping.
6. Context
Show the surrounding neighbourhood and landscape outside the windows. Connect how interior spaces and flows relate to and interact with the exterior environment. Place the building fully situated on its foundation within the block and neighbourhood.
7. Season/Weather
Convey the seasonal and weather conditions accurately. Dial in the realistic sun and sky settings based on the time of year, including how natural light enters and illuminates interior spaces over a day. Apply seasonal foliage types and densities to landscaped areas that change appropriately with the seasons. Consider seasonal weathering effects over time on all exterior materials and surfaces.
With care toward accuracy in these areas of materials, lighting, scale and context, architectural renders can achieve a stunning degree of photorealism that sells buildings before they’re built.
If you need photorealistic architectural renders, partner up with EnDesign. By combining artistic proficiency with cutting-edge technology, our professionals design visual representations that bring your plans to life.
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