Renderings vs digital images. Each one has its place, but...
Michael de Nysschen
Account Manager at Instacom. Bringing workflow solutions to make your life easier. Professional photographer helping architects, hospitality, & businesses,
The preference for images of completed architectural projects over renderings often depends on the context and the purpose of the presentation. Both completed images and renderings have their advantages and may be preferred in different situations. Here are some reasons why images of completed architectural projects might be considered better than renderings:
Realism and Authenticity:
Completed images provide a realistic representation of the final project, showing the actual materials, lighting conditions, and context. This authenticity can be crucial for clients, investors, or the general public to truly understand what the finished project looks like.
Photographic Quality:
High-quality photographs of completed projects can capture the ambiance, atmosphere, and intricate details of the design that might be challenging to replicate in a rendering. Professional photography can enhance the visual appeal and storytelling aspect of the architecture.
Validation of Design Intent:
Completed images serve as a validation of the architect's design intent. They showcase how well the vision translated into reality and how the design functions in the real world.? When vision translates into reality it is a beautiful thing.?
Contextual Integration:
Completed images can better demonstrate how the architecture integrates with its surroundings, considering factors like landscaping, neighboring buildings, and overall urban or natural context.
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Material Realism:
Renderings may sometimes struggle to accurately represent materials and textures. Completed images allow viewers to see the actual materials used, their quality, and how they interact with light.? It is this realism that reaches out to our emotions and imaginations.? Drawing us in to sit next to a fire or want to walk up a stunning staircase.
Post-Construction Changes:
Completed images can include any modifications or changes made during or after construction, providing an accurate representation of the final product, including any unforeseen alterations.
Marketing and Promotion:
In marketing and promotional materials, completed images can be more convincing and impactful. They can be used in brochures, websites, and other promotional materials to showcase the success of the project.? With renderings, there is that lingering question of “Will it really look like that?”
Time and Cost Considerations:
Creating high-quality renderings can be time-consuming and costly. Once a project is completed, high-quality images can be obtained more efficiently, and the cost of professional photography will be of much greater benefit to a firm from a financial aspect.
Renderings of course have their advantages, especially during the design and pre-construction phases. They allow architects and clients to visualize and iterate on the design before construction begins, offering flexibility and quick adjustments.? They also allow photographers to get a feel for the project.? Consider possible angles etc.?
It is ultimately the final images of a project that give it life to the viewer.? When you compare the renderings to the real thing you will most likely always go with the final images as they speak to our imaginations and emotions.? It is that emotional connection that your client also makes with you when seeing stunning visuals of completed projects.? It is that feeling of “I want what this shows” that only final visuals can bring.?
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