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Life-like - Getting Started
Life-like - Getting Started

A quick guide to creating your first Life-like experience

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Hey there!

Before you continue with this article we just want to make sure you've landed on the right page.

Are you a CGI Studio, an Enviz CGI Partner or a modelling company capable of creating high detailed models in 3Ds Max?

If this doesn't sound like you, this article may not be the best place to start.

We suggest you check out some of our other articles on Life-like experiences that may be more relevant to you.

Alternatively, you can also look into our other product Space AI.


Lets get started!

A Life-like Space is a high quality, detailed experience created by YOU our trusted CGI Partner. Your model is effortlessly transformed by our highly skilled team into an augmented reality experience, accessible on any device.

Unlike our other product Space AI, a Life-like experience is bespoke and requires a team of artists to help bring it to life.

We also require your support to align your model with our guidelines. This ensures we create the best experience for you (and your clients) within time and on budget.

What do you need to begin?

To create a Life-like experience Enviz requires the following:

  • A complete model created in 3Ds Max using either Corona or VRay rendering engines. See more about 'complete' below.

  • A scene that aligns with our guidelines. See further below.

  • A set of 360 degree renders from your scene that have been reviewed by your client and approved. Further renders are used by our team to cross-check our conversion.

  • A 360 degree environment sphere image, placed within your 3Ds Max scene

  • Upon delivery, the scene should be properly archived to ensure all relevant information is passed to our team.

  • Lighting that has been used on a global setting, not per camera or exposure. See more within modelling guidelines

Here are some common questions you may have to begin...

Do you have a Polygon size limit?

No, we don't have a limit and can accept most large files with no issues. We do ask that if you know your file has a lot of planting or is detailed with clothing and decor items, to try and minimise these where possible.

Do I need to optimise my scene?

No, there is no requirement for you to optimise your scene. We prefer to receive it as is to create the best output.

I already have a scene. Why can I not just send you this?

A: In theory, you can just send us this. However, chances are you have modelled for a render. This is very different for modelling for a VR experience. For example:

  • You may be missing entire sections of your scene

    Remember in VR you can see Every part of an experience. Up, down, left, right. There is no where you cannot view.

  • Your lighting may not be correct. Similarly, if you have modelled for renders or even a 360 image tour, your lighting may have been adjusted using exposure settings. We cannot replicate these settings in our experience. How you have lit the scene is how it will appear.

  • Doors may be shut

  • Walls, ceilings and floors may have gaps between them. This causes major light leaking in our process and takes a Long time for us to fix.

I've created a VR tour using 360 images. Is this not the same thing?

No, this is not the same thing. See above some instances you may not have thought of.

There are no limitations to the areas you can walk around in while in an Enviz experience. Unlike in a 360 image tour where you are bound to the centre of each 360 image point.

It will take me too long to edit my existing scene. Can you do this work for me?

We prefer not to partake in any modelling. Our suggestion would be to limit the area to just one or two rooms. You could opt to close off doors to other less important sections of your scene. Then focus on refining and improving smaller areas that will take less time.

This will give you enough of an understanding of the output, without you needing to commit too much of your own time.


Okay you have a beautiful, Enviz ready model - now what?

Lets get your experience set up in the Enviz Platform. This platform will allow you to upload your 360 review images, archived scene and any other relevant files.

Once uploaded we can commence the conversion.

Before you continue, we suggest reviewing our Customer Portal Articles for the basics. Follow the steps outlined in this document to create your Life-like experience. Click here.

Important! Although we allow you to upload files without payment, our terms specify that payment is required before the conversion starts. Unless specific terms and conditions have been applied by a sales representative.

If you are unsure about how to quote or price for an experience please reach out to our team who can assist you further.

Upload your files

Okay, you've created your Enviz experience. Now its time to upload ALL of your files. Remember this includes the following:

  • 360 Review images

  • The archived 3Ds Max scene

    • Ensure all texture maps are properly saved

  • Drone photography or environment spheres

  • Post processing setting files - VRay and Corona only

Note: Your 360 review images are uploaded in a separate location. Enviz requires both before you can submit your files.

All uploaded - hit Submit your files!


Nice work! You've now created and submitted your Life-like experience. Next steps:

We'll review your files

Our team will review your files for compliance and address any missing items or concerns. If we find something we will reach out straight away. On occasion, we may need to ask you to adjust a model and re-submit your files again. In this situation one of team members will coordinate with you the requirements and how to re-submit your files.

Important! Although we try and meet your client deadlines, any incorrect modelling or adjustments may cause delays and impact the deadline. Please be very mindful when submitting your model and ensure you have thoroughly checked it against your own quality assurance and the Enviz modelling guidelines. If you are unsure about any of the guidelines please reach out to us.

Conversion Underway

Everything looks great and we've started converting your space. You will receive an email notification advising that your experience is underway. Timeframes will have been communicated at the quoting stage, or at file review stage and are based on the size and complexity of your project.

During this stage it is worthwhile getting yourself familiar with using the other aspects of the Enviz portal. You may wish to start uploading project information such as marketing renders.

In addition, you should set yourself up with any devices so you can view your experience. Remember our platform is available on Tablet, Mobile, Desktop and VR Headsets. For an extensive list of device compatibility, see here.

Experience Complete

Once we have completed your experience, you will receive another email notification. If our team are communicating directly with you, we will also advise separately.

Revisions

We allow one round of revisions as a part of our Life-like experiences. It is important that you collate all feedback into this round. This includes your clients feedback as well as your own. If you identify any issues after this review stage additional charges may be applied.

If you require a revision, you can submit a request through the Enviz Portal. Alternatively, please reach out directly to the Enviz team who can assist you further.

Conversion Errors

This revision is to identify all errors that may have occurred. However, please note that we only cost for Conversion Errors. What is a Conversion Error?

  • Anything that looks obviously different between your 360 review images and the finished output. This could include:

    • Textures are blurry or overly compressed

    • Light bleeds or gaps

    • Black or broken objects

    • Z-fighting

    • Non-reflective glass

What isn't a Conversion Error?

  • Model changes or updates

  • Style changes or updates

The later can be completed however, it will need to be quoted based on the required scope of work.

Sales Training and Additional work

We love that you want to continue to work with us. If you require further amendments or revisions for your current experience or have a new project in mind, please contact our sales team. They can assist you with project based solutions and customised quoting.

If you are looking to on sell our product or need to help your clients use the technology we have a dedicated articles to help you get started.

Become a CGI Partner

How to use our tech

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