Started in June 2009, a real passion of mine is 3D modelling for Google Earth. Now, when I see an interesting building, I think, “Hmm, that would look good as a 3D model”. I find myself looking at buildings in a different way now, noticing the architectural features, the little details, the way shadows fall, the textures and colours, the effects weathering and decay, the position within the landscape.
Ardingly Reservoir Valve Tower
Using Google SketchUp to create these models, you come to appreciate the value of a good digital photo, often of the most mundane thing, like a row of bricks, a gate post or a concrete path. These may all be needed to produce a 3D model, where photo-realistic detail is achieved using digital images rather than fine 3D detail. (The use of SketchUp’s built-in colours and textures is frowned upon for GE 3D models) As the people at Google Earth urge, the aim is to “make it beautiful”, and there are some very beautiful models created by some talented modelers. I’ve started a collection of some of these 3D models to inspire.
You can see my small collection of models in the Google 3D Warehouse.
3dBloke.
