Navigating the complexities of any project requires a structured approach. This is especially true for intricate undertakings where every detail matters. At Dart Frog, we have honed a meticulous process that ensures success by keeping everyone organized, on task, and aligned with clearly defined goals and a singular vision. Our projects are completed through four main stages: Render Planning, 3D Process, Revision Rounds, and Commenting & Delivery. Here’s a closer look at how each stage contributes to the overall success of our projects.
The first step in our process is Render Planning. This stage is all about gathering essential information. We collect product geometry, samples, art direction, and any other critical details that will inform the project. This foundational work ensures that we have a clear understanding of the project’s requirements and the client’s vision. By taking the time to gather comprehensive information at the outset, we set the stage for a smooth and efficient workflow in the subsequent stages.
“Realism is essential for many projects so potential customers can see the product to scale and how it can be interacted with.”
-Saman Moayer, Chief Creative Officer
With all the necessary information in hand, we move on to the 3D Process. This stage involves creating the virtual environment where your product will come to life. We begin with scene and material creation, ensuring that every element is meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards. Next, we focus on lighting and propping, which are crucial for achieving the desired mood and ambiance. Finally, we move to rendering and post-production, where the initial concepts are transformed into polished, visually stunning outputs. This stage is where the magic happens, as your product starts to take shape in a virtual space.
“We have a great team with a variety of artists. We have people that can do CGI, people that can do videos and others that do compositing. We have some people that work well in specific parts of CGI like propping, lighting, and keyframing.”
-Saman Moayer, Chief Creative Officer
Once the initial renderings are complete, we enter the Revision Rounds. At Dart Frog, we standardly offer four rounds of revisions to ensure that the final product meets or exceeds your expectations. During this stage, we gather feedback from you and make the necessary adjustments. This iterative process allows us to refine the details and make improvements based on your input. Proofing is also a key part of this stage, as we check for any inconsistencies or errors to ensure that the final product is flawless.
The final stage of our process is Commenting & Delivery. After the revisions and proofing are complete, we finalize the project and prepare it for delivery. We provide a platform for you to review the final product and offer any last comments. This stage ensures that everything is exactly as you envisioned before the project is officially delivered. In just 6-8 weeks from the project kick-off, your product will be showcased in a way that your consumers have never seen before.
“We have the storyboards and a rough layout of how the animation will look prior to the shooting day. So we were able to look at those and map out what angles we need to get for the camera and lighting for each shot.”
- Landon Holzwarth, 3D Artist
The actors often come in at different times throughout the shoot day, playing their respective roles out on the green screen. Using a technique known as virtual production, the team can see where the actors are “standing” in the rendered environment.
“Using software, we can bring up a live view of what the camera is seeing and how the cut out of the person on the green screen is placed in the virtual shot.”
- Derek Malone, Senior Artist and Technical Producer
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At Dart Frog, we believe that following a well-defined process is paramount to the success of any complex project. By adhering to our four-stage process—Render Planning, 3D Process, Revision Rounds, and Commenting & Delivery—we ensure that every project is completed to the highest standards, on time, and within budget. Our approach not only keeps us organized and on track but also ensures that your vision is brought to life in a way that truly resonates with your audience.
“These are very technical projects, and one way to make that easier is automation. We have a lot of tools built previously that we were able to use, along with following strict rules for file naming, that helps bring everything together.”
- Pete Nunez, Creative Head
Check out how it all came together for two of Dart Frog's clients, Tuohy and Suncast.