An in-depth evaluation of our member's project, Salma Fahmy's "Chocolate Shop"
This image is quite simple, lacking intricate details and offering a low level of complexity. However, there are several areas where the artist needs to focus to create a visually appealing and photorealistic rendering that respects the fundamental principles of 3D design and aligns with the *Club's quality standards.
Below, I’ve outlined the key aspects that need further attention for a more polished and professional result:
a) When different construction surfaces meet, it’s often a good idea to leave a small gap or "recess" between them. This creates a thin shadow line that distinguishes the objects, avoiding a flat appearance and enhancing the architectural lines.
b) Basic modeling knowledge, such as proper smoothing, appears to be missing. Smooth transitions between polygons are essential for curved surfaces to appear truly curved rather than faceted, as seen in the base and top of the counter and the curved structure displaying the "Clair" logo.
Moreover, snapping accuracy could be improved where the black marble counter meets the vertical marble panels. Adding a chamfer or fillet to the edges would soften them, eliminating the sharp, unrealistic look. This technique, applied consistently throughout the scene, highlights the geometry and significantly enhances photorealism.
All fundamental principles of photorealistic lighting are equally crucial. Even a minor shortfall can prevent achieving the highest quality.
a) In this image, it seems that the only light sources are the visible ones. Adding additional light sources behind or beside the camera would better balance the overall lighting.
The perimeter concealed lighting is overly intense, likely chosen as the primary light source. However, it causes overexposure near the source while inadequately illuminating the rest of the space. Artists should study lighting properties—intensity, color temperature, and the harmonious use of multiple light sources.
b) The recessed semicircular shelves are illuminated by ceiling spotlights, but additional lights on the shelves themselves create redundancy. Overlapping light sources can wash out shadows, resulting in a lack of depth and contrast. If the shelf lighting is intentional, the ceiling spotlights should be reduced in intensity.
The scene lacks advanced materials that can elevate the quality of the rendering. Proper UVW mapping is also absent in areas such as the vertical wooden panels (3a), the curved section of the recess (3b), and the marble countertop (3c).
a) The vertical wooden panels display mirrored, repeated mapping. Randomizing textures, even through simple scripts, is essential for a natural look.
b) The material resembling leather or stucco appears vertically stretched. Proper scaling or bitmap fitting ensures textures are authentic and realistic.
c) The black marble countertop texture is low-resolution and shows visible seams. If unwrapping seems challenging, alternative techniques, such as cylindrical mapping for the curved sections and box mapping for flat areas, can be used.
Increasing observational skills and studying real-life materials can help understand proper scaling. For instance, the wooden floor texture could be scaled down by about 10%. Always work with reference images to maintain accuracy.
Photographic approach is crucial in achieving realism. Proper framing ensures the composition is visually appealing.
a) The camera’s position and height are reasonable, but slightly raising the camera would separate the first shelf with two cups (5a) from the marble counter. Architectural lines should guide the viewer’s eye to the white rectangular poster.
b) Using a slightly wider lens would prevent the "Clair" logo from being cropped. Leaving a 10–15 cm margin would provide better balance.
As both designer and visualizer of the space, there’s a greater responsibility for the final result. When clients request impractical or unattractive elements, it's essential to provide alternatives and educate them. If they insist, then, "Let it be!"
a) The decorative elements on the shelves lack variety and proper placement. They appear repetitive and could be better curated to pose for the camera. Reference images are vital for inspiration and guidance.
b) Instead of a simple printed poster, consider alternatives like a plexiglass design with spacers or a recessed wall frame to make it more visually interesting.
This project was created on a laptop with the following specifications:
Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-10750H CPU @ 2.60GHz
RAM: 16 GB
Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX series
Software: 3DS Max and Corona
It’s evident that effort went into this rendering, though it remains noisy. This might be due to light sources passing through glass, rendering settings, or the laptop’s low-performing graphics card.
Artists can produce excellent renders on low-spec laptops, but the process can feel torturous. For rapid skill development and smoother workflows, investing in a proper desktop setup with quality monitors is essential.
I hope this detailed analysis highlights the areas for improvement and helps take Salma’s work to the next level of quality.
Thank you for your time.
Kind regards & Keep rendering!
