To start a 3D rendering project, send floor plans, elevations and sections (DWG or PDF), any existing 3D model, material and colour references, the camera views you want, and how and when the images will be used. Complete inputs mean faster delivery, more accurate results and fewer revisions.
The single biggest factor in how quickly and accurately a render is delivered isn't software. It's the quality of the information the studio receives at the start. Use this checklist before you send your next project.
1. Architectural drawings
These define the geometry of the building or room. The more complete they are, the more accurate the model.
- Floor plans for every level, with dimensions
- Elevations of all visible sides (for exterior renders)
- Sections showing floor heights, ceiling heights and roof profile
- Site plan with compound wall, driveway, landscaping and orientation (north arrow)
- Interior elevations and ceiling plans (for interior renders)
Formats: AutoCAD DWG/DXF is ideal. PDF drawings work well too. A clear photo of a dimensioned sketch is fine for concept work.
2. Existing 3D models (if you have them)
If the design was developed in SketchUp, Revit, 3ds Max, Rhino or ArchiCAD, send the model. It can save significant modelling time. Mention which version of the software it's from and whether it's the latest design.
3. Materials, colours and finishes
This is where most revisions come from, so be as specific as you can:
- Exterior: paint colours (with shade codes if known), cladding, stone, tiles, glazing type, railing style, roof material
- Interior: flooring, wall finishes, laminates and veneers, countertops, fabrics, lighting fixtures
- Furniture: catalogue links or photos of the exact pieces, or a style direction
- A mood board, Pinterest board or photos of projects you like
4. Camera views
Tell the studio which views matter most. Mark them on a plan with an arrow if possible:
- Exterior: front eye-level, corner view, entrance close-up, aerial or bird's-eye
- Interior: which rooms, and from which corner
- Floor plans: which units or floors
Not sure? An experienced studio will propose angles that show the design at its best and share them for approval before final rendering.
5. Lighting and mood
Decide whether you want a bright daytime view, a warm dusk scene or a night view with lights on. For interiors, mention whether it should feel like natural daylight or evening ambience.
6. Site context
For exteriors, share site photos, a Google Maps pin or notes on surroundings: neighbouring buildings, road, trees, views. This helps the render feel grounded in the real location.
7. Purpose, size and deadline
- Where will the images be used? Client presentation, brochure, hoarding, website, social media or approval file
- Output size or aspect ratio (e.g. landscape for brochures, vertical for Instagram)
- Deadline including any launch or meeting date
- Branding: logo and project name, if they should appear
Printable checklist
| Item | Exterior | Interior | Floor plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Floor plans with dimensions | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Elevations & sections | ✓ | Optional | — |
| Site plan / site photos | ✓ | — | — |
| Interior elevations / ceiling plan | — | ✓ | — |
| Material & colour references | ✓ | ✓ | Optional |
| Furniture references | — | ✓ | Optional |
| Preferred camera views | ✓ | ✓ | — |
| Lighting / mood | ✓ | ✓ | — |
| Use, size & deadline | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Common mistakes that cause delays
- Sending outdated drawings, then changing the design after modelling starts
- Plans and elevations that don't match each other
- "Use nice materials" with no references
- No deadline mentioned until the last minute
- Feedback from several people sent separately, sometimes contradicting each other. Consolidate comments into one list.
Frequently asked questions
Can you create a render from a hand sketch?
Yes, for concept-level visuals. Include approximate dimensions and reference photos. For accurate marketing renders, measured drawings are recommended.
What's the best way to send large files?
For small files, email or WhatsApp works. For large CAD files or models, use Google Drive, Dropbox or WeTransfer and share the link.
What if I haven't decided on materials yet?
That's fine. The studio can suggest a palette, or render alternative options for you to compare. Just let them know so it's included in the quote.
Ready to send your files?
Share your drawings with 3D Render Shop on WhatsApp or by email, or fill in the form below. We'll review them and send a fixed quote.
