Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working with us
Pricing & Timeline
How much do your rendering services cost?
Our pricing varies by service type and complexity. Exterior renderings start at $2,500 per image, interior renderings at $2,000, aerial views at $2,500, floor plans at $1,500, and animations at $15,000 for the first minute. Final pricing depends on project complexity, level of detail, scope of work, and delivery timeline. We provide detailed quotes after reviewing your project requirements.
Why do your prices vary so much between projects?
Several factors affect pricing: complexity of the design (simple forms vs. intricate details), level of finish detail required, number of materials and textures, landscape and site context complexity, time-of-day variations needed (dusk, day, night), level of refinement and complexity, and rush delivery requirements. We're transparent about what drives costs and work within your budget to deliver maximum value.
How long does a typical project take?
Typical timelines: exterior renderings take 2-3 weeks, interior renderings take 2-3 weeks, aerial views take 2-3 weeks, floor plans take 1-2 weeks, and animations take 4-6 weeks. These timelines include initial concept development, collaborative refinement, and final delivery. Rush services are available for urgent projects, and we'll always communicate realistic timelines during the quoting process.
Do you offer rush or expedited services?
Yes, we can accommodate rush timelines when our schedule allows. Rush projects typically incur a 25-50% premium depending on the timeline compression required. Contact us as early as possible if you have deadline constraints, and we'll do our best to accommodate your needs.
Process & Requirements
What files do you need to get started?
We work with most file formats including: 3D models (SketchUp, Revit, Rhino, 3ds Max, AutoCAD 3D), 2D drawings (PDFs, DWGs, or images), reference images for materials and context, site photos or surveys if available, and any brand guidelines or material specifications. If you don't have 3D models, we can work from 2D drawings or even hand sketches for simpler projects.
What if I only have basic sketches or plans?
No problem! We regularly work with clients who only have 2D drawings or conceptual sketches. We can build the 3D model from your drawings as part of the rendering process. This is common for early-stage design development projects. Just provide us with whatever documentation you have, and we'll guide you through what additional information we need.
How do revisions work?
We take a collaborative approach to refinement rather than counting "revision rounds." After delivering the initial draft, we work with you iteratively until the result matches your vision. This includes adjustments to materials, lighting, composition, camera angles, and details. Our goal is your complete satisfaction within the agreed project scope. Significant design changes to the building itself or additional deliverables beyond the original proposal are quoted separately.
Can I see progress during the project?
Absolutely. Our typical workflow includes: initial concept review (usually a work-in-progress rendering), first draft review (full-quality rendering for your feedback), collaborative refinement (incorporating your changes), and final delivery (high-resolution files in agreed formats). We maintain regular communication throughout the project and can provide updates as needed.
What formats do you deliver?
Final deliverables typically include: high-resolution JPEG or PNG files (suitable for large format printing), web-optimized versions for online use, layered TIFF files if requested, and specific formats for your use case (brochures, presentations, websites). We deliver files sized appropriately for your intended use, whether that's large format printing, web display, or presentation materials.
Geographic & Service Area
Do you work with clients outside Michigan?
Yes! While we're based in Traverse City, Michigan, we serve clients nationwide. Most of our work is done remotely via email, file sharing, and video calls. We've successfully completed projects for clients across the United States. Physical proximity isn't necessary for excellent results—clear communication and good documentation are what matter.
Do you travel for site visits or scanning?
For projects requiring existing site documentation (3D laser scanning or drone photogrammetry), we can travel when needed. Site visits are most common for renovation projects, additions to existing buildings, or projects requiring precise as-built documentation. Travel costs are included in project quotes when site work is required.
Technical Details
What software do you use?
We use industry-standard professional tools including 3ds Max, V-Ray, SketchUp, Revit, Rhino, AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom for post-production, and specialized tools for laser scanning and photogrammetry when needed. We stay current with the latest visualization technology to deliver cutting-edge results.
Can you match specific photography or lighting conditions?
Yes! We excel at photo-realistic rendering that matches specific conditions. If you have reference photos of your site, existing buildings, or desired lighting conditions, we can match them closely. This is especially useful for additions to existing buildings or projects that need to fit into specific contexts. Provide reference images, and we'll match the lighting, materials, and atmosphere.
Do you provide source files or 3D models?
Our standard deliverables are high-resolution rendered images. The 3D models and source files remain our proprietary work product. However, if you need the 3D model for other purposes (VR, real-time visualization, future modifications), we can discuss licensing arrangements. Let us know your needs upfront so we can structure the project appropriately.
Can you create animations or virtual tours?
Yes, we offer architectural animation services for walkthrough and flyover videos. We also provide Matterport virtual tours for existing spaces. Animations are ideal for major presentations, fundraising campaigns, and marketing initiatives. Due to the extensive production time involved, animations are priced separately and typically start at $15,000 for the first minute.
Working Together
How do we get started?
Getting started is simple: 1) Contact us with your project details, 2) We'll schedule a brief call or meeting to understand your needs, 3) You share your drawings, models, or sketches, 4) We provide a detailed quote and timeline, 5) Upon approval, we begin work with a kickoff meeting to confirm all details. The entire process from first contact to project kickoff typically takes 3-5 business days.
What's your payment structure?
For most projects, we require 50% deposit to begin work and 50% upon completion before final delivery. For larger projects or animation work, we may structure milestone payments. All payment terms are clearly outlined in our project proposal. We accept checks, wire transfers, and credit cards (via invoice).
Do you sign NDAs or confidentiality agreements?
Yes, we're happy to sign reasonable non-disclosure agreements. We understand that many architectural projects are confidential, especially during design development or before public announcements. We treat all client projects with discretion and won't share work publicly without your explicit permission.
Can you show my project in your portfolio?
We reserve the right to feature completed work in our portfolio and marketing materials as outlined in our project proposals. We understand some projects require confidentiality, and we're happy to accommodate—just let us know during the proposal process if you need your project kept private. We'll never share work that's been designated as confidential.
Experience & Expertise
How long have you been in business?
J. Scott Smith Visual Designs was founded in 1999, giving us over 26 years of experience in architectural visualization. We've completed over 1,000 projects for architects, developers, designers, and institutions across the United States. Our longevity speaks to our commitment to quality and client service.
Do you have architectural training?
Yes! Chris Clinton, our Artist & Visualization Specialist, is a graduate architect with formal architectural education and training. This architectural expertise ensures our visualizations are not just beautiful, but architecturally sound and accurate. We understand design intent, building systems, spatial relationships, and construction details—which shows in the quality and credibility of our renderings.
What types of projects do you specialize in?
We work across all project types including: single-family residential, multifamily and mixed-use developments, commercial buildings (office, retail), hospitality (hotels, restaurants, resorts), religious buildings (churches, places of worship), institutional (schools, civic buildings), and senior living facilities. Our 26+ years of experience spans the full range of architectural project types.
Why should I choose you over other rendering services?
What sets us apart: 26+ years of proven experience, architectural expertise with a graduate architect on staff, 76.7% repeat client rate (our clients come back), US-based team with direct communication, collaborative process—we work with you until it's right, and focus on quality over quantity. We're not the cheapest option—we're the right option for projects where quality matters. Our work helps clients win projects, secure funding, and make confident design decisions.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to discuss your specific project needs and answer any questions you have.