Visual materials for Studio Unbound, UK
Caldera is a luxurious chili-infused olive oil with a rich history tied to the volcanic region of Naples. The challenge was to create a CGI-based visual identity that would convey the brand's premium quality, unique story, and connection to its volcanic origins. Developing a realistic clay shader for the bottle was crucial to convey the brand's artisanal, hand-crafted nature. The desired aesthetic called for a dimly lit, moody environment. This presented a challenge in ensuring the hero objects remained visible and visually appealing while maintaining the atmospheric darkness.
A multilayered shader system was developed to achieve the desired look of the clay bottle, incorporating subtle imperfections and subtle, but important variations in color and texture. A light linking system was used to direct the lighting in the challenging dimmed environment and create a cohesive look, with further refinements achieved in post-production compositing.
The Caldera project underscores the importance of "fake" methods, such as light linking and extensive post-production, in achieving photorealistic CGI visuals. It was the strategic manipulation of light in post-production that truly elevated the visuals, imbuing them with depth, atmosphere, and a sense of artistry. This project serves as a testament to the fact that achieving hyperrealism in CGI often involves a combination of technical prowess and creative problem-solving, where the artful use of "fake" methods can be just as impactful as the rendering process itself.
