General
Can CGI really replace studio photography?
Yes - and in many ways, it improves upon it. You get unmatched consistency, flexibility across campaigns, and scalable outputs. For brands who care about detail, pace, and storytelling, 3D is the smarter solution.
How does 3D rendering benefit creative direction?
Unlike photography, where visuals are shaped by the constraints of a shoot day, 3D rendering gives us total freedom. We can test angles, lighting styles, materials and backdrops without additional cost or time. Our roots in brand strategy and art direction mean we don’t just render - we tell product stories.
Is CGI suitable for startups and small brands?
Yes - especially if you need speed, flexibility or want to launch before your packaging is in hand.
Do I need to be a designer to work with you?
No - we guide you through the process step by step and can work directly with your existing design assets or packaging files.
What’s the difference between modelling, rendering and animation?
- Modelling: Creating the 3D digital version of your product
- Rendering: Producing high-quality still images from the model
- Animation: Adding motion or rotation for video or interactive content*
Is 3D rendering suitable for my industry?
The answer is probably yes! It’s particularly effective for beauty, wellness, skincare, supplements, beverages, FMCG, and any product with packaging. We've developed visuals for a wide range of sectors, and the scalability, accuracy, and brand consistency that CGI provides has made it a preferred solution for forward-thinking consumer brands.
How is this different from product photography?
CGI allows for more control, consistency and scale. Unlike traditional photography, once your 3D model exists, you can produce unlimited visuals from any angle, in any setting - without reshoots. For brands with multiple SKUs or evolving campaigns, this saves time, budget and creative resources. It also unlocks creative flexibility, enabling on-brand content across touchpoints with less overhead.
What is 3D product rendering?
3D product rendering is the process of creating photorealistic images of your product using computer-generated imagery (CGI). It eliminates the need for physical photography, props or lighting setups.
Process & Workflow
How agile is your workflow compared to a photo shoot?
Extremely. With 3D, there’s no need to wait for samples, book studios, or manage reshoots. We adapt visuals in real-time, whether you're launching a new SKU or tweaking seasonal campaigns. That means faster feedback loops, fewer bottlenecks, and quicker go-to-market.
Can you help shape creative direction or campaign style?
Yes - we’re not just technicians. As part of Unearthed studio, we specialise in creative direction that supports positioning and storytelling.
What if I don’t have dielines or final artwork yet?
We can work from reference photography or draft designs in the meantime and adapt as final files are ready.
Do you offer project management?
Yes. We manage the entire process and provide clear updates throughout.
How long does a project take?
Most standard projects take 1-2 weeks. More complex animations or large-scale variants may take longer - we’ll advise early.
Can I be involved during the process?
Yes. We build in review points at key stages (e.g., modelling and lighting setup), so you stay in control of quality and alignment.
How does the process work?
- Discovery & brief
- Asset collection
- Modelling
- Feedback & approval
- Rendering (and/or animation)
- Delivery of final assets
What do you need from me to start?
Usually: dielines or artwork files, photography references, and a description of finishes (e.g., matte, foil, gloss). If the product is in hand, we may request photos from specific angles.
Pricing & Costs
Does CGI save money in the long run?
Yes. Once a model is created, you can produce new content for product lines, packaging refreshes, and campaigns without starting from scratch. No additional props, no travel, no delays.
What are the cost differences between stills and animation?
Stills are faster and more affordable. Animations involve more setup, motion paths and rendering time - we’ll quote based on scope.
Do you offer retainer packages or bulk pricing?
Yes. We support ongoing content production through flexible packages - ideal for eCommerce or product marketing teams.
Is it more cost-effective than photography?
Yes - especially when you factor in scaling, reusability and the lack of physical shoot costs. CGI is significantly more cost-efficient for multi-SKU brands.
How much does 3D rendering cost?
It all depends on the complexity, number of SKUs, required outputs, and animation needs. Whilst prices start at £2,500, we always provide clear, upfront quotes tailored to your needs.
Still have questions?
Don’t let questions slow you down. Reach out and we’ll help you keep creating at full speed.
