Our graphic design studio has created an instructional video that presents the process of changing the access code for a travel suitcase with a biometric lock (using a fingerprint). We began the project by modeling the travel bag and its interior based on the provided suitcase. We had to measure each element precisely to recreate them in 3D visualizations accurately.
In the first stage of the project, an animation script was developed, which step by step demonstrated all the stages of changing the code in the suitcase. Based on the script, a 3D animated film was created, enriched with live-action footage. The animation was part of a larger project that included the preparation of various visual materials for the suitcase manufacturer, including promotional videos and photographs.
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The foundation of every product animation is the realistic representation of a 3D object. Properly constructing the model enables the creation of advanced animations. To do this, we need to anticipate which elements of the product are movable and which ones will be animated.
Learn about the individual stages of creating animations to better understand the process of film production. Remember that every film is developed based on a script that describes specific scenes. Below, we outline the stages of 3D animation production based on an approved script. The subsequent stages include modeling, texturing, animation, and editing.
At the very beginning, a three-dimensional model of your product is created. We replicate every detail to closely resemble the real object. At this stage, we must consider the mechanics of the object, such as how it will open or if it will have any movable parts. These factors need to be taken into account during modeling. In the case of the suitcase, we captured a set of product photos from all sides to make the process of transferring the suitcase into the 3D software much more convenient. The suitcase was sent to us, so we could continuously compare its appearance. Initially, the suitcase had a very simple shape, allowing us to later refine every detail by densifying the mesh. After completing the exterior of the suitcase, it was time to start working on its interior. During modeling, we had to examine every detail to ensure we didn’t miss any elements.
In the first stage of creating a 3D animation, we obtained a precisely replicated model of the suitcase. The next step after 3D modeling is adding textures and materials to our object. At the same time, it’s essential to set up the appropriate scene lighting, which allows us to highlight the product and achieve the desired atmosphere for the film. This is a crucial phase of the work, as we need to select materials and textures that accurately represent the material from which the object is made. Lighting is equally crucial, with the same importance as in a real photographic studio. The difference here is that we are dealing with virtual studio lights and a camera. Our suitcase was made from a textured material, so we decided to achieve a similar effect for our model. For elements like handles, wheels, and the internal material, we used textures we created from scratch to showcase the brand name and logo.
After modeling the object, adding materials and textures, and setting up the lighting, our 3D model was completed. At this point, it was time to create the initial animations. In 3D animation, we can utilize both the movement of the virtual camera and the movement of the model itself. In the presented animation, the suitcase opens. Additionally, it features movable elements like the fingerprint scanning module. In the initial scenes, we decided to showcase the entire suitcase in an engaging and dynamic manner before transitioning to the fingerprint coding stages. Once the entire animation is ready, rendering begins on the computer. Rendering involves processing each frame of the entire film. It’s important to note that there are typically 30-60 frames in one second. Therefore, the rendering time varies depending on the length of the film and can take from several hours to several dozen hours. Consequently, before generating the final version, a lower-quality preview is usually created. After its approval, the final version of the film is rendered.
We have generated the animation render in the 3D software, so we can proceed to post-production and film editing. At this point, the work shifts from 3D graphics software to film editing and post-production software. In our studio, we use Adobe Premiere and Adobe After Effects for these tasks. During the editing process, music is added to the film. Additionally, at this stage, we can incorporate sound effects and a voiceover if the project requires it. During post-production, subtitles and additional graphic elements, such as icons or 2D animations, can be added as needed based on the project’s objectives. In the instructional video, we enriched it with explanatory subtitles on how to correctly encode a fingerprint. Moreover, we created simple icons to facilitate the understanding of the entire instruction.
The entire process of creating a film demonstrating how to encode a suitcase was a very interesting and, most importantly, positive experience for us. It allowed us to utilize our knowledge and skills from various fields, such as 3D modeling and animation, video recording, and editing.