The ArchViz ‘process’ (?), according to a newb

[Declan Flynn]

Although a professional 2D graphic and 3D artist for the last 30-years, I have only recently focused the entirety of my creative energies into ArchViz.  Therefore, referring to myself as a “newb” to the ArchViz world and process sort of fits even though I’m no newcomer to 3D modeling, materials, lighting, rendering, and post-processing.

If you’re primarily self-taught, like me, (maybe) you’ll agree that when diving into discovering what the creative processes are in any given discipline, it’s important to do it like the professionals do, right?  Back when I used to teach filmmaking, I implored every student to practice their craft at a level, so that if dropped onto a Spielberg or a Ron Howard film set, like if a treadmill, they’re immediately up-to-speed, ‘turn-key’, if you will.

What this post attempts to do is pose the question, “What is the ArchViz process?”  Below is my ArchViz process (to date), and I’ll leave it in your capable hands – the professionals on this forum – to either correct or confirm. Your interaction is appreciated as it will help me become more focused and become a professional ArchViz artist.  So, I thank you in advance!

My process, deriving from my research online:

Pre-production and conceptualization – the process of gathering references, defining project goals, and if working for a client, understanding the project’s scope, architectural style, and deliverables. Do drawings exist? If so, acquire them. Create a mood board (I’ve used Pinterest and Behance for inspiration a lot when doing graphic design, are there others?) (I also use PureRef). Lastly, having all of the necessary software licenses in place and upgrading your CPU/GPU wouldn’t hurt.

3D Modeling – I’ve quickly learned that 3ds Max is the industry standard for ArchViz. I just qualified or an Indie license, so I am currently learning 3ds Max 2025. So far, it is easier (and different) than Maya, which I’ve been using since 1999. I’ve also read that Blender is… a choice, but I have some strong opinions about using Blender in a professional capacity, which is different topic for another forum. So, I’ll stick to 3ds Max.

Question: My online searches for jobs in my area for ArchViz artists have suggested knowledge of SketchUp and Revit and other BIM-based modeling.  Is this your experience?

A part of the 3D modeling process, I think, is gathering furniture assets and landscaping assets.  I’ve done some of this, but I’ll admit my library is lacking, so I’d love some recommendations on databases out there to subscribe to.  It’s safe for you to assume that I understand that the 3D modeling process also includes UVs, material creation, lighting, camera setup, composition, and rendering. 

Question: V-Ray or Corona? I see a lot of pros and cons for both. I’m familiar with Arnold, but I already see limitations when it comes to ArchViz. I also have a decent grasp, having used the Unreal Engine in past projects. No matter what your opinions, I recently purchased V-Ray for 3ds Max and will try that before going to Corona. Note: those same job searches also listed knowing V-Ray and Corona are “pluses.”

Post-Processing – Like other 3D projects that I’ve worked on, I’ve always included a post-process in my work, e.g., color correction, adding effects and final renders. This includes using video editing programs like Premiere Pro or Davinci Resolve.

Animation – I think it’s important, back in the pre-production process, to know if a client requires a walkthrough or wishes to employ virtual or augmented reality. I’m a bit familiar with both, more AR than VR, and as I mention I have knowledge of the Unreal Engine and animation (especially cameras), so animation is a necessary part of the ArchViz process.

Delivery / Presentation – considering that I’m new to ArchViz, I have to build a fairly extensive portfolio. As a 2D graphic and 3D artist, I am remarkably familiar with creating website portfolios – easy for me as I know how to write HTML/CSS – and presentation decks. My only knowledge gaps though are using VR or other real time platforms as a deliverable presentation medium. I’ll have to bone up on that one. I’d love some recommendations on what are some of the required architectural styles one must have in their portfolio.

Did I miss anything?