Perfecting people in a made-up world

Paul Hatton finds the best approach to adding virtual people to projects

The world of 3D is made up of many different sub-genres, if you will, each of which is unique and defined by different characteristics.

There’s a lot of overlap when it comes to the creative tools that are utilised in each of these sectors, but the output and target markets are decidedly different. These sectors include, but are not limited to, film, video games, product design, and of course one of the most popular among 3D artists, architectural visualisation, better known as archviz.

In archviz, the architectural element of the work is central. If it’s missing, you’re just left with visualisation. This might take the form of a new building or an extension, but it could also involve giving an existing building a facelift with new materials and finishes. This is the first element.

Alongside this major facet is the scene the building is located in. This includes vegetation, roads, paths and fences, as well as any other setting details. With all these in place, the scene starts to take form and is, in general, complete, but at the same time empty and lacking in life.

The final element in a scene is the dressing of the set. Oftentimes it tells a narrative and draws the viewer into the scene so they can picture themselves in it. This is an essential part of archviz and the selling of not just a property, but a lifestyle and a dream. This set dressing includes elements like furniture, technology, cars, and of course people. The last will be our subject of interest here.