Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of answers to common questions

What do I need to send you to get my CG images?

The information we need to produce accurate and realistic CGI’s varies depending on what type of 3D illustration we will be preparing. From CAD files to mood boards to product samples, the list of requirements is not the same for every job. Although we may need lots of information and specifications etc to get the job done once we have been commissioned, in order to quote and arrange a cost for a particular job the list of requirements is more conservative. We have taken the trouble of preparing a blog post that describes in lots of detail what is needed for pricing and for production for every type of project we could undertake.

Can I send you all the information in the post?

Yes you can, and actually product samples and fabric cuts etc could only get to us and be useful through the post. Most of the other information we require can be sent electronically however and whilst there are savings to be had in postage fees there are, more importantly, time savings to be exploited meaning we can receive your information and begin work much faster.

Why do you need actual samples of fabrics and other materials?

In order for your products, fabrics and other materials to be accurately replicated in 3D we need to analyse them in detail to ascertain physical characteristics such as reflectiveness, surface detail, reaction to light etc so our computer “facsimiles” look the same and digitally react in the same way as your real world materials. This level of detail is crucial in achieving the realism and photo real quality you expect and we could not get what we need from photos and drawings. We do not need samples of every material and fabric used in your project as common everyday materials are already programed and can be used in 3D scenes straight away.

Are your production timings affected by the information I can get you?

Yes, very much so. Without the information we need we cannot guarantee delivery schedules or accuracy and realism. Any delivery agreement will always be subject to the correct information being received and at a particular timing milestone. Our accuracy and the realism we achieve in our images is entirely dependant on the information relating to your bespoke products and settings so without that the final image quality we can deliver could be compromised very badly.

How long do your images take to produce?

It all depends on how many images we are producing for you and the subject matter. As a rough guide, a vast majority of our images are prepared to initial draft stage in 7-10 working days or less. For larger projects containing multiple images and lots of bespoke detailing or texture work this delivery schedule could be extended. This is dependant on many variables however and they will be discussed with you in the event of you commissioning us.

How long will it take to get from draft to final image?

That depends on how many amendments you decide to make. (See our blog post “will making changes to a draft image cost me money?”) We have clients that make little change to the first draft produced and are able to receive the final image within 2 working days. We have other clients that make round after round of changes that extend the draft approval process by days, sometimes weeks. The more information we have at the outset and the less we have to interpret ourselves, the quicker the production and approval process.

What if I needed my image very quickly?

We always try and accommodate smaller deadlines if we can. With an in house team we are better able to shift priorities and make space for “rush” projects. It is best to discuss your requirements with the production account manager who will be better able to manage your expectations in relation to our workload at that time.

My 3D images will be sat next to photographs in my brochure. Will that be OK?

Yes. We have produced dozens of images that have been shown in brochures next to photography and it has been virtually impossible to tell the difference. As long as we have the information we need from you and at the requested time we will be able to produce photo real quality images.

What size will my images be?

The majority of our images are produced at 5000 pixels resolution. This means the image will be at A3 scale or larger at normal print resolution of 300dpi. We can produce images that are bigger than this but due to render time constraints we do not offer it in a standard production workflow. If you need larger images then please discuss with a member of the team.

Can I be involved in the production process?

To a certain extent you can. You can see early drafts to pass comment before production gets too far, you can see different camera angles to make sure you are getting the right image for your needs and we even offer a screen share facility where you can log into the computer of the artist working on your project and you can discuss detail and camera angles etc in real time.

Can I see my product or my room with different material choices?

Unless otherwise discussed our quotations only allow for one configuration of materials – what is specified in the brief. However it is entirely possible to see different configurations at any stage of the production process but the quote would have to be revised and agreed for us to do it. This is not offered as a standard working practice.

How much will my image cost?

This is a very difficult question to answer. Without a brief and details to support the brief illustrating what will be required from us we cannot accurately give our standard prices for types of project in different sectors. We would not be accurate and it would be of no benefit to either party other than to cause confusion and possibly ire. If you are serious in searching for an accurate price for your 3D images then please get in touch. The information we need to give an accurate price is not as extensive as you may think.

What if I need extras like different angles or materials?

Unless these extras are covered in your original agreed quotation there is no other option than the new requirements be costed, agreed and added to the production pipeline. You will be then issued with a revised quotation for your records.

Does it cost extra to make amends?

It depends on how many amends you request, at what stage you are requesting them and if the changes were part of the original brief. Some small changes we can incorporate as part of the project with no extra cost as long as they are advised before a final draft is produced. More extensive changes or fundamental changes to the brief would always be chargeable but these can be discussed and agreed before any extra work is carried out.

I don’t understand CGI, can you help?

Yes we can. We pride ourselves on advising and nurturing our clients and every project is discussed in detail before work starts. We have account managers that help you through the process and answer all queries you raise and we use an online communication tool that keeps all information and communication trails in one place for easy reference for everyone involved. You will be advised as to what information to send us and when and you will be given delivery milestones for each stage of the project.

What are the benefits of CGI?

The benefits of computer generated images are wide ranging irrespective of what industry your business is in. They are quicker to produce than traditional photography and are often easier to post produce. The process takes far fewer staff from your business to manage leaving your business to focus on more important tasks while the images are being prepared. Repetitive image requirements, like e-commerce images are far cheaper with CGI and changes and variations between images are easier to carry out, quicker and cheaper to produce. There are no logistics involved, there are no locations or settings to source, no construction waiting times. Every set built within a computer is viable forever meaning no set dismantling or storage of construction materials or collapsed sets. The list is very long so our advice is to talk to one of our team to discuss your current difficulties or budget restrictions and we can see how we could help you.

What is the process to get from brief to delivery of final image?

The benefits of computer generated images are wide ranging irrespective of what industry your business is in. They are quicker to produce than traditional photography and are often easier to post produce. The process takes far fewer staff from your business to manage leaving your business to focus on more important tasks while the images are being prepared. Repetitive image requirements, like e-commerce images are far cheaper with CGI and changes and variations between images are easier to carry out, quicker and cheaper to produce. There are no logistics involved, there are no locations or settings to source, no construction waiting times. Every set built within a computer is viable forever meaning no set dismantling or storage of construction materials or collapsed sets. The list is very long so our advice is to talk to one of our team to discuss your current difficulties or budget restrictions and we can see how we could help you.

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