Hyper-realistic modelling is an art form that is often underappreciated. It goes way beyond miniature landscapes and holds importance in a range of industries including model railways, wargaming, film and TV production, architecture and museum exhibits. It’s interesting to dive into the role this somewhat underestimated art form plays in our lives and the techniques involved in crafting such realistic landscapes.
From the rolling hills encasing a quaint countryside railway track to the rugged battlefield terrain of a wargaming table or blockbuster film, there are countless possibilities when it comes to hyper-realistic modelling. As the years have gone by, technological advancements have simplified the crafting process and extended capabilities like never before.
When it comes to the world of model railways, extremely true-to-life landscapes are most preferable. Fine blades of grass that are sun-scorched, dusted with snow or peppered with autumn leaves reflect seasonal change and add to the authenticity of the scene. Flocking and other textured ground materials also play a part in helping to mimic real-world terrain.
In the film and TV industry, hyper-realistic scenery is extremely useful. Often, period or fantasy films will create realistic landscapes such as thick forests or rolling hills so that they can be integrated seamlessly into CGI post-production. The more life-like the better- many production designers use handcrafted scenery for close-ups, wide shots, aerial shots and panning (refer your memory back to the likes of Hogwarts Castle and its stunning Scottish Highland location).
Architects use true-to-life modelling to demonstrate as clearly as possible how a new building or development will look and how it will fit into the landscape that surrounds it. In a similar way, those creating scenes for museum exhibits need to be able to replicate prehistoric landscapes, ancient cityscapes or war-torn battlefields to help educate visitors in the most engaging and immersive way.
When it comes to the actual creation of these impressive scenes, there is often a mix of traditional model making techniques and more modern technology. While hand painting is perfect for the finishing touches, and resin is still used for achieving the gloss of a river or lake, laser cutting and other machinery add the precision that the human hand just can’t quite manage. WWScenics– a household name in the hyper-realistic modelling industry- have even invented a Pro Grass Applicator, a handheld gadget that allows users to create a variety of effects with static grass.
As we edge nearer into the future, 3D scanning and biodegradable materials are becoming more and more prolific within the industry. With demand still very much there from the kinds of industries previously mentioned, those in the hyper-realistic modelling world will be eager to keep pushing it to new heights.
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