What affects the pricing of our 3D work

3D model of an excavator.

There are different aspects in the work required for 3D graphics that raise or lower the price of the project. The purpose of this post is to hopefully give more clarity and transparency around this topic.

Defining Project Scope and Complexity

Clearly defining the scope and complexity of each project is critical when determining pricing. The specific requirements can range from straightforward tasks, like creating simple 3D models, to complex ones, such as developing huge worlds full of movement, characters and objects.

Some of our examples of finished results.

Below are things we have to consider when we price our 3D work:

1. How complex is the 3D work?

   • The amount of objects to 3D model

   • The detail of the 3D models

   • The amount and complexity of animated movement

   • The complexity of lighting

   • The amount of realism of the graphical style

     
     

2. What is the client expecting at the end of the project?

   • For example, a finished product might be a high-resolution 3D model, animation or an image

     
     

3. What is the project deadline?

   
   

4. How many revisions will be needed?

   
   

5. How much is there post-production?

   • Editing

   • Texturing

   • Compositing

   • Visual effects

   • Color correction

     
     

Understanding these elements help us create a pricing structure that reflects our efforts accurately. In another post we go through AI-assisted graphics that can be used to replace some or all 3D elements bringing down the overall costs.

Creating the 3D models

For every project that contains 3D graphics, we need to create 3D assets using software, such as Blender and Unreal Engine. The more work we put into this process, the more time it takes. This is a foundational stage of a 3D project where creative visions begin to take tangible form. During this phase, we transform conceptual sketches and design briefs into detailed digital representations. This process involves constructing precise geometries, ensuring efficient topology, and carefully sculpting assets to capture both aesthetic appeal and technical precision. By establishing the underlying structure of characters, environments, or props early on, the phase not only sets the creative tone but also prepares the project for texturing, rigging and animation.

Some of the 3D models we have previously created.

Creating the texture and lighting

We apply detailed materials, colors, and patterns to digital models using techniques like UV mapping. This process ensures that the surfaces accurately represent the intended look of each object. Once texturing is complete, the project moves into the lighting phase, where light sources are carefully placed and adjusted to create proper mood, depth, and realism in the scene. Both phases work together to transform basic models into a coherent and visually accurate final image.

Comparison between untextured and textured 3D models.

Animating the 3D models

In the animation phase, static 3D models are transformed into dynamic entities that convey a narrative and evoke emotion. Animators meticulously craft movement through keyframe placement, motion capture integration, and refined rigging techniques, ensuring that timing, weight, and fluidity are attuned to the desired aesthetic and storytelling goals. This phase requires a nuanced balance between technical precision and creative artistry, where adjustments to posture, gesture, and sequence pacing are continuously calibrated to enhance realism or achieve a specific stylistic effect. Collaborative efforts between animators, directors, and technical specialists are pivotal, as they ensure that every motion not only aligns with the overarching vision but also meets the project's technical standards for a cohesive and immersive final product.

An animated process of building being built in real-time.

Post-production

The post-production phase in 3D work is the final step where the raw rendered outputs are transformed into a polished final piece through a meticulous blend of compositing, color correction, and editing. During this stage we enhance the overall depth and realism, adding visual effects and fine-tuning elements to achieve the desired mood, and ensure seamless integration with sound and any live-action footage if applicable. This phase is crucial as it allows for creative adjustments and enhancements that not only correct technical imperfections but also elevate the artistic vision, culminating in a final product that resonates with the intended narrative or aesthetic purpose.

Wrapping It Up

A typical 3D graphics project encompasses several integrated processes that collectively bring a creative vision to life:

1. Everything begins with pre-production, where ideas are honed through storyboarding, concept design, and detailed planning.

2. 3D asset creation such as modeling and rigging to build the digital components.

3. Texturing the 3D models and lighting the scene, where realistic illumination and high-quality visuals are achieved.

4. These elements are animated to create dynamic movement.

5. The work goes through post-production where compositing, color correction, and visual effects integrate all elements into a polished final product.

Interested in our 3D solutions?

Contact us at info@lightstonevfx.com or via our form.