We were asked to create a 3D visualisation to promote a scientific paper on the cover of a prestigious American scientific journal.
This was a challenging assignment as we had no certainty or guarantee that our visualisation would ultimately be chosen by the journal's editors for the cover.
The first stage of the work was to discuss the client's idea and determine what would be included in the visualisation. Our reference materials were a rough sketch of what would be included in the visualisation (below) and some graphics from the Internet showing the desired graphic level. After reviewing the materials, we decided to do our visualisation better than the client's expectations, as we were keen to maximise the chances of getting the graphic on the cover of the magazine.
Preliminary sketch from the client
This was the initial sketch from the client showing what the graphics should contain.
The first stage of the work was to prepare a sketch of the visualisation, on which we determined the initial composition of the scene and all the elements that should be included. This enabled us to make the appropriate changes quickly and efficiently in consultation with the scientific team.
Sketch of scene composition
Once the sketch was refined and accepted, we could prepare the 3D scene.
Using model bases created from crystallography, we modelled a cross-section through the cell membrane, as well as all the necessary structures. In the modelling, we used Maxon Cinema 4D.
We also prepared several different camera angles for the scene, so as to select the most suitable composition.
You can see the final selected camera angle below.
Modelling
At this stage we prepared the models and the whole composition of the scene
Once the 3D scene was approved, we could prepare the target lighting and materials. As we were keen to get the most plastic look quickly, we decided to use the Corona renderer, which is also perfect for architectural visualisations. Below, you can see the next steps in the preparation of the materials and lighting.
Rendering the scene in high resolution took more than 15 hours on our computers.
The final result exceeded not only our expectations, but also those of the client, and post-production was limited to only minor cosmetic changes.
Three people were involved in the preparation of the visualisation, and the time to prepare the visualisation closed in three weeks from the moment the order was accepted.
After a few more weeks, we learned that our work had been selected for the cover of a prestigious scientific journal. Below is the final version: