3D Modelling an iMac G3

Before beginning the modelling process, I set up blueprints for various viewpoints of an iMac G3 that I had found on the internet. This was important to ensure that the model could be built to the correct proportions. The creation process began with adding a simple ‘Box’ primitive to the scene, and moving vertices into place that aligned with the basic shape of the iMac (based on the blueprint). Edge loops were used to allow more detail to be added to the model, as well as serving to keep certain edges hard when a turbosmooth modifier was applied. Free-Form-Deform modifiers were used extensively to control the curves of the model. The internal components were modelled fairly roughly as they would not be seen in detail. The most challenging part to model was the skeletal-looking structure on the inside. Large parts of this had to be built polygon-by-polygon.

The most important aspects to get right for realism was lighting and shading. I wanted to recreate the feel of the original G3 commercials: Simple, clean, stylish, new. A studio HDRI was essential for creating the crisp, glossy reflections on the coloured surface. A single large plane light was used for the main illumination.

The final images were rendered with the V-Ray rendering engine, with adjustments to brightness, contrast and colour being applied in post with Adobe Photoshop.

The model is available to view in details & purchase on Turbosquid: http://www.turbosquid.com/3d-models/3d-model-imac-g3/820248