Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Modeling for Lumion
It is out of the scope of this topic to teach you how to model using one of the many
3D modeling packages. However, modeling doesn't have to be difficult or only
accessible to those who can afford expensive licenses, because we have SketchUp.
SketchUp is perfect for anyone because it doesn't require any technical background;
it is easy to learn and use and is available for free. So, even if you don't have any
experience, SketchUp can help you start making your own 3D models to be used
in Lumion.
To download SketchUp, go to the following URL:
http://www.sketchup.com/products/sketchup-make
To learn SketchUp, go to the following URL:
http://www.sketchup.com/learn/videos?playlist=58
An additional reason to use SketchUp is because Lumion can import any SketchUp
file directly, without having to use any special format. We will see this later, but for
example, if we are modeling the building using 3ds Max or Maya, we have to export
the file as a COLLADA or FBX file.
Now that we have everything we need, let's see some techniques and aspects that we
need to keep in mind when modeling for Lumion.
Modeling for visualization
Modeling is a process that will differ from one person to another. The techniques,
favorite tools, plugins, and also our experience will dictate how we approach
a project from start to finish.
However, what does modeling for visualization mean? Modeling for visualization
means that when we approach the project, we ask ourselves: am I going to see this
detail? It is true that the greater the detail, the richer and more detailed the results
will be. However, it is pointless to transcend certain limits because some of these
details will not be caught by the camera angle, and we are wasting time on details
that will never be seen.
As an example, the hinges on a door will look great on a close-up render, but at the
same time, they would be useless if you are using a bird's-eye view render. So, it is
better to start out with rough outlines of shapes that can be tweaked and fine-tuned
as the modeling process advances. However, detail is important, as we will see in the
following topic.
