Photorealistic Visualization

Creating product images for marketing campaigns and e-commerce websites is always a costly and time-consuming task. No manufacturer would argue about that. In fact, many of them are seeking an alternative to traditional photography. They want something simpler, quicker and less expensive.

That alternative is photorealistic visualization. It is a purely digital process, carried out on a computer using specialized software. The result of it is a series of photorealistic images, ready to be posted online or to be used in printed advertising materials. Normally, it is done by a 3D visualization company, if you don’t have the opportunity to hire in-house 3D artists.

However, even though product visualization, as well as other CGI services, has already become a separate industry with its own market, it is still relatively new to most manufacturers. And while they may see it as a decent alternative to product photography, they don’t have enough certainty about it. Mainly, due to the lack of information and the multitude of negative myths surrounding this young industry. So, how about debunking the biggest 5 of those for a start?

#1. CG Images are of Poor Quality

The very first misconception here is, of course, about the quality. When something sounds too good, there is a reasonable question: why so? Many business owners, who focus mainly on product development, might not be keeping up with all the updates from the world of computer graphics. They tend to think that the quality of CG images is low and that the items in them look fake, like something from a poorly designed computer game.

In fact, CG images are highly photorealistic, when done by professionals. Any material, any texture can be shown perfectly as it is in real life, thanks to modern software and libraries with countless CG samples. Studios that do photorealistic visualization always have portfolios of their works on their websites, so it’s easy to see the actual quality they can provide.

#2. It Takes Forever to Produce Photorealistic Images

While in the case mentioned above some mistrust digital tools regarding their ability to create high-quality photorealistic images, there is another doubt about them – their ability to produce those images fast. All the details in the pictures, all the lights and reflections, carefully selected decorations and surrounding scenes – those definitely require a whole team of 3D artists working day and night for weeks, right?

Actually, no. Photorealistic visualization can be done within 2-4 days, depending on the complexity of the project. Normally, 3D visualization companies provide accurate time frames for projects before any work begins. And that is extremely important for manufacturers. For instance, if they order product visualization for e-commerce, because all the launches are planned way ahead. A lot depends on the CGI company, though. So, it’s important to just do the research and find a company with suitable terms, like with any other contractor.

#3. Using CGI Services, Manufacturers Have Zero Control Over the Process

Another misconception regarding photorealistic visualization is that once an order has been placed with a CGI company, it is impossible to track the process and to be sure that every comment is taken into consideration. No-one likes being kept in the dark, especially about something so time-sensitive and important for the business, as visualization of its products. Is there a way to see intermediate results? Is it possible to make corrections mid-way? Is there any certainty that the deadline will be respected? Many manufacturers may not know the answers to those questions.

In reality, good CGI companies have their own transparent CRM systems for the most efficient communication with clients. Also, every client is assigned a Client Manager to ensure everything will be done according to their instructions. Client Managers communicate everything from the client to the team of 3D artists working on the photorealistic visualization project. The client can easily contact their Manager at any time, if needed.

#4. Product Designs Might Be Used in an Unfair Manner

Some manufacturers, especially those introducing new products to the market, might be worried that a CGI studio will use images of their items to advertise its own services. Or even worse – leak blueprints to other manufacturers. Since it is necessary to provide detailed blueprints for photorealistic visualization, product makers might choose not to use CGI at all, fearing that might result in a disaster for their company. That is especially important for such items as new electronic devices, since the demand for them comes and goes very quickly, and is largely based on the novelty of their design.

In truth, mutually beneficial advertising can take place if both the manufacturer and the CGI company agree to that. However, for any respectable CGI company, it is a standard practice to sign NDAs with clients. So, there is nothing to worry about – the designs will be legally protected from any kind of unfair use.

#5. Customers React Negatively to Product CGI

The last myth for this article is about the way customers react to photorealistic visualization. Manufacturers fear that, even though the quality of the images is high, customers might think the maker is being dishonest somehow, unwilling to show “the real product”. In their eyes, it is a tremendous reputational risk, which they are unwilling to take.

Well, actually, nowadays customers know a lot about manufacturing processes and are fully aware that companies oftentimes use CGI for their e-commerce and promo materials. The recent trends show that customers are, in fact, delighted to see the items from multiple different angles, with all the little details highlighted. They also love lifestyle images because those help to imagine themselves using the product. And CGI allows to create different lifestyle settings for the same item to appeal to different audiences. Moreover, given the contemporary audiences’ lack of attention span online, photorealistic visualization provides just what is needed for successful sales – beautiful, stylish, photorealistic images.

Hopefully, this was enough information to debunk the top-5 myths surrounding photorealistic visualization. Not only it is a very practical alternative to a one-time product photoshoot, it can also serve the manufacturer for a long time. That is because the 3D models created for the purposes of photorealistic visualization can be altered and reused multiple times. The scenes the items are digitally placed in can also be substituted and tailored to the preferences of different audience segments, as well as adapted for situational marketing purposes.

Are you ready to try 3D rendering services for your own business? Contact us at CGIFurniture and get amazing results that will surprise you with their quality, in the shortest time you can imagine!