How to Add an Architectural Model Into Context

Introduction: Models are a tool that every architect can use. Importing your model into a site allows them to be imagined with the direct context. Through this method, you will be able to take an image of your model and using photoshop, transport it into anywhere in the world. This will be useful for aspiring architecture students and practicing architects. Use this to WOW clients, professors, and colleagues alike.

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Supplies

To complete this process, you will need the following:

1. A model

2. An image of your model

3. A computer with Adobe Photoshop

4. An image of your intended site

5. Camera

Step 1: Open the Image of Your Model in Photoshop

After you have created your architectural model and taken an image of it, use photoshop to open the image.

Step 2: Cut Around Your Model

Using the Lasso tool, trace around your model to separate it from the background. Cutting the model away, copy it using CTRL or COMMAND + C.

Step 3: Insert the Model Into the Site

After finding an image of your site, open it Photoshop. Using CTRL or COMMAND + V, paste the model into the window. Using CTRL or COMMAND + T, resize and relocate your model to your desired scale and position.

Step 4: Desaturate the Images

For each layer, open the Image button on the top panel and select Adjustments. Then select desaturate. This will effectively desaturate the images making them black and white. Feel free to use further image adjustment tools to adjust the contrast, hue, brightness, and saturation levels.

Step 5: Add Shadows

Using the brush tool with the color black selected, at a low opacity, draw in the shadow on the correct side of the model that correlates to the context. Remember in this step that shadows will be stronger where the sun is less apparent and fade to lightness as the sun overtakes the casted area.

Step 6: Crop the Image

Select the Crop tool and crop the image to your desired size. Reducing the overall cropped area creates a focal point on your model and you can direct the attention of the viewer.