Objective

The goal of this phase is to introduce you to the core concepts and tools used in product visualization. By the end of these weeks, you will have a solid understanding of 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, and rendering.

What You Will Learn

1. Introduction to Product Visualization
   • What is product visualization? Why is it important?
   • Applications in industries like marketing, e-commerce, and design.
   • Overview of tools (e.g., Maya, Photoshop, Ai, KeyShot).
2. Basic 3D Modeling
   • Understanding polygons, meshes, and NURBS.
   • Creating simple shapes and objects (e.g., cubes, spheres, cylinders).
   • Introduction to CAD tools (optional: Fusion 360 or Rhino for precision).
3. Texturing and Materials
   • UV mapping basics: How to unwrap a 3D model for texturing.
   • Applying textures and materials to objects.
   • Using procedural textures vs. image-based textures.
4. Lighting and Rendering Basics
   • Principles of lighting (three-point lighting setup).
   • Basic rendering settings and techniques.
   • Exporting renders for presentation.

Key Activities

• Hands-on exercises: Create simple models (e.g., a bottle, a box) and apply basic textures.
• Practice rendering with different lighting setups.
• Submit a small project (e.g., render a basic object with proper lighting and materials).

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Objective

This phase builds on the foundational skills learned in Phase 1. You’ll dive deeper into advanced modeling, photorealistic texturing, and professional lighting techniques. By the end of this phase, you’ll be able to create more complex and polished renders.

What You Will Learn

1. Advanced 3D Modeling
   • Complex modeling techniques (e.g., subdivision surfaces, Boolean operations).
   • Retopology for clean geometry.
   • Working with reference images to create realistic models.
2. Photorealistic Texturing
   • PBR (Physically Based Rendering) workflow: Metallic, roughness, and normal maps.
   • Creating custom materials using Substance Painter or Quixel Mixer.
   • Using texture libraries (e.g., Substance Source, Quixel Megascans).
3. Advanced Lighting and Composition
   • HDRI lighting: Simulating real-world environments.
   • Global illumination and ray tracing for realistic shadows and reflections.
   • Camera angles and framing for storytelling.
4. Rendering Optimization
   • Balancing quality and render times.
   • Using proxies and low-poly models for efficiency.
   • Post-processing in Photoshop or After Effects to enhance renders.

Key Activities

• Hands-on exercises: Create a more complex model (e.g., a chair or a phone) and apply photorealistic textures.
• Experiment with HDRI lighting and camera compositions.
• Submit an intermediate project (e.g., render a product with realistic materials, lighting, and post-processing).

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Objective

In this final phase, you’ll apply everything you’ve learned to real-world projects. The focus is on creating high-quality renders that can be used in portfolios, client work, or marketing materials. This phase also includes portfolio development and preparation for professional opportunities.

What You Will Learn

1. Creating Photorealistic Renders
   • Simulating challenging materials (e.g., glass, metal, fabric).
   • Adding fine details like scratches, fingerprints, or imperfections for realism.
   • Finalizing renders with professional lighting and composition.
2. Animating Product Features
   • Keyframe animation basics: Rotating, scaling, or moving objects.
   • Animating specific features (e.g., opening a box, pouring liquid).
   • Camera animations for cinematic shots.
3. Exporting for Different Platforms
   • Exporting renders for e-commerce websites, social media, or print.
   • Optimizing file formats (JPEG, PNG, MP4) for different use cases.
   • Preparing renders for AR/VR applications (optional).
4. Portfolio Development
   • Curating and presenting your best work professionally.
   • Writing case studies for each project to explain your process.
   • Preparing for job interviews or freelance pitches.

Key Activities

• Real-world project: Work on an industry-inspired brief (e.g., create a product render for a mock client).
• Portfolio project: Compile your best renders into a cohesive portfolio.
• Final submission: Present your portfolio and receive feedback from instructors.