Getting into Arch-Viz? (Architectural Visualisation)

From someone who has made a lot of mistakes... :-)

There are five fundamentals to learn.

1. 3D Modelling and reading plans

2. Lighting

3. Texturing and materials

4. Rendering and rendering engines

5. Post-production

Each fundamental has its own set of fun challenges.

For the journey

- Yes, you can be the best in the industry. Yes, it takes time and focus.

- You will never know it all, the paradox is the more you know, the less you know.

- Always look for ways to improve yourself and your skills.

- Expect to be a Junior 1 - 2 years, Mid-level 1 - 4, Senior 2 - 8, Master +/-8 years, and yes, it can be done quicker, it is not time it's openness to learn.

Practical tips

- Download Blender, It’s free and easy to learn with an astonishing community of passionate artists, teachers and tutorials. (Look out for Student versions of software)

- Download Affinity Photo2 or Photoshop for post-production.

- When ready, learn 3D Studio Max and Vray or Corona. The principles and toolsets will carry across.

- Look for architectural inspiration on Instagram, photography, photorealistic artists, as well as all types of Art, including AI.

- Learn artistic techniques (light, shadow, colour theory, tone, contrast, blending, masking, layers & LUT's etc).

- Learn photography techniques (composition, DOF etc).

- Create your own software-stack or workflow.

- There is always more than one way to complete a project or image.

- Don't get caught up in getting the chosen program settings perfect, it's a tool to achieve the desired outcome.

Clients

- Clients come first, do as the client requested, if you have a better idea, present both for comparison.

- Ask clients for a 50% deposit (50/50 risk for both).

- Do as you say you will do.

- Deliver when you said you would.

- Love and appreciate your clients.

- Love and appreciate your (past or present) colleagues and employers, everyone can teach you something.

- Make the industry better, even if it is a little bit.

- Love and enjoy the process, learning and failures.

- Failures = Success.

All the best,

Luke.