Submitting files for 3D visualization: how to submit files correctly the first time

What do you need to provide?

Preferably provide both the technical basis and visual references, plus the intended end goal. New to the subject? First read What is 3D visualization.

• 2D drawings - DWG or PDF with floor plans, elevations, and dimensions. See also Interior visualization: explanation and applications.
• 3D model - CAD or mesh: DWG, RVT, SKP, IFC, STEP STP, STP, FBX, OBJ, or 3DS. For product cases: Product visualization: explanation and applications.
• Materials list - Specifications per component: brand, color code, gloss level, roughness.
• Reference images - Photos, mood boards, sketches, or sample renders.
• Corporate identity - Logos as SVG/AI/PDF and color codes in sRGB or CMYK.
• Final goal - Web, presentation, video, or printed material, including desired resolution/dimensions.

File formats and minimum specifications

The guidelines below help to ensure quality and limit rework.

• Pixel images
  Accepted extensions: TIFF, PNG, JPEG, RAW.
  Guidelines: Minimum 1920x1080 for screen. For print, 300 dpi at final size. Preferably TIFF/PNG, JPEG with minimal compression.
• Vector
  Accepted extensions: AI, PDF, EPS, SVG.
  Guidelines: Convert letter contours or include fonts. Embed images or deliver them separately.
• Video
  Accepted extensions: MP4 H.264, ProRes, MOV.
  Guidelines: Minimum Full HD 1920x1080. For editing, preferably ProRes or a high-bitrate MP4. Please specify the frame rate.
• 3D CAD
  Accepted extensions: STEP STP, IGES, DWG, RVT, IFC.
  Guidelines: Specify scale in meters or millimeters. Avoid small fillets/booleans where not visible.
• 3D Mesh
  Accepted extensions: FBX, OBJ, DAE, 3DS, SKP.
  Guidelines: Normal directions consistent, pivot logical, textures included, and paths checked. Quads or clean triangulation.

Export and cleanup tips per package

• Revit - Archicad - Vectorworks - Export FBX or DAE with material names, purge unused families, set a clear level of detail.
• SketchUp - Purge unused, fix reversed faces, export FBX/OBJ with correct scale and triangulation where necessary.
• SolidWorks - Inventor - Fusion - Export STEP with simplified geometry. Remove small threads and micro details that are not visible.
• AutoCAD - Check units, convert blocks to instances with logical names, export to DWG or FBX.
• General - Preferably place the pivot on world-0, freeze transforms, remove duplicate vertices, and pack all textures into a folder.

Resolution, dpi, and final goal

Adjust resolution and dpi to suit the application. For screens and video, pixels are important; for printing, dpi at the final format is important.

• Screen and video - Full HD 1920x1080 is standard, 4K 3840x2160 for extra sharpness or cropping. Provide desired aspect ratios, for example 16:9, 9:16, or 1:1 for social media.
• Print - Calculate with 300 dpi at final size. For A4 portrait, this is approximately 2480x3508 px, for A3 approximately 3508x4961 px. Larger formats or exhibition walls can suffice with 150 dpi depending on viewing distance.
• Rendering time and planning - Higher resolutions render and retouch more slowly. Therefore, please indicate in advance which variants you need so that we can plan production efficiently. You can read more background information about the rendering process in What is 3D rendering.

Delivery checklist

• Purpose and output - Web, video, or print with formats and dpi.
• 2D and 3D - Latest DWG and 3D model in a common format.
• Materials - List of codes and references.
• Images - High-resolution logos, photos, and mood images.
• File structure - Clear folders and file names, textures included or supplied.
• Contact person - Who authorizes feedback and approval moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you create renders based on my 3D model?

Yes. We work with common CAD and mesh formats such as DWG, RVT, IFC, STEP, FBX, and OBJ. If conversion or cleanup is necessary, we will take care of this in consultation with you so that you quickly have a reliable basis.

What types of 3D files are available, and which ones work best for visualization?

CAD files such as STEP or RVT are ideal as a technical basis. For visual production, we often work with FBX or OBJ, including materials and textures. We advise on the most efficient approach for each project.

Which extension should I use for 3D printing vs. visualization?

3D printing is usually done with STL or STEP. FBX and OBJ are commonly used for visualization due to material and UV support. If you only have STL, we can often still make it suitable.

How large can my file be when uploading?

You can safely share large packages via WeTransfer, SharePoint, or a download link. Compress as ZIP, bundle textures, and list the units used. If you are unsure, send us a link and we will check it.

What if I don't have a 3D model?

No problem. Using DWG/PDF, photos, and a list of materials, we accurately model the object or environment. We coordinate the level of detail and planning with you in advance.