None of them. They're all CGI.
That was a trick question, but only so we could show you how realistic computer-generated imagery can be.
Computer-generated imagery is any visual that has been created on the computer. This imagery can be stationary or animated, and includes 2D and 3D stills and animations. When done properly, computer-generated imagery and other forms of remote asset creation can provide many benefits for your business. Overall, the remote creation of assets makes things possible without a live shoot, which is especially important given today's circumstances.
There are three types of remote asset creation that we have found most successful. Each type provides its own unique set of benefits that are covered below.
3D Stills
The production of a perfect picture requires shots from multiple different angles and post-retouching work — two steps that take time and can be costly.
Photo-real 3D stills look as good as (if not better than) the real thing. These images can be created remotely, eliminating the need for a studio and photographer. 3D renderings also make asset creation possible when the physical products are not yet available. Once the 3D rendering of a product is created, product labels and colors can easily be swapped out, allowing for efficiency and cost savings.
Another benefit that comes with 3D product renderings is increased versatility over a static product shot. The rendering of the product comes with an unlimited number of viewing angles, all without having to reset the shot. One rendering can vastly expand your asset library, and animations can be easily created from the 3D stills.
3D Animation
The multiple angles that are created from a 3D product rendering provide endless opportunities for not only static graphics, but for animations as well.
The creation of 3D product animations allows for dynamic product launch presentations where key features can be showcased and exploded views can highlight features that are not easily seen. Products can also be animated in ways that are not possible with a physical product, including a seamless transition from physical to 3D and back.
3D animations can also provide immersive video experiences. For example, 3D renderings of spaces can be created for virtual tours and 3D product renderings can be utilized for augmented reality.
Remote Video Creation
Video is by far the best way to grab people’s attention, but how do you produce a video when everyone needs to be 6 feet apart from each other? You create the video remotely.
Using client-supplied imagery and footage, stock assets and animated videos can be created from the comfort of one's office or home. Everything from the script, storyboard, edits, and voiceover can be produced remotely.
Without the need for a live shoot, production costs are cut, resulting in smaller budgets and shorter timelines. The possibilities are infinite, and with an open mind and some creative flexibility, videos ranging from product explainers to brand stories can be made with your entire team working remotely.
Over the past few months, life as we once knew it has come to a halt, but this doesn't mean your marketing and advertising efforts need to follow suit.
As we gear up for a new normal, try not to think about what cannot be done, but rather, what can be done differently. There are many forms of remote content that, when done right, look just as good as — if not better than — the product of a live shoot.
CSI is an independent, full-service creative agency that doesn’t believe in B2B or B2C. We believe in H2H: human-to-human. We're obsessed with understanding what makes people tick, what informs their buying decisions, and how to reach them in ways that drive real human connection and revenue for your brand.