Create a realistic CG tree in 6 simple steps

SpeedTree
(Image credit: Mike Griggs)

Creating believable computer generated trees has always been a difficult challenge for 3D artists; as with all things in nature, no two trees are the same, and traditional cloning techniques do not lend themselves easily to natural creation. 

To create impressive 3D art that features realistic foliage, you either need a lot of time and talent or a quality software solution. Enter the award-winning SpeedTree. With this application, an artist can create a bespoke series of trees of any size, either through the supplied templates or entirely from scratch, with full control over every aspect of the creation and position of every element, from trunk to leaf.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

TOPICS
Mike Griggs

Mike Griggs is a veteran digital content creator and technical writer. For nearly 30 years, Mike has been creating digital artwork, animations and VR elements for multi-national companies and world-class museums. Mike has been a writer for 3D World Magazine and Creative Bloq for over 10 years, where he has shared his passion for demystifying the process of digital content creation.

Latest in CGI
Big Ben wrapped in a yellow North Face puffer jacket
People are baffled as Big Ben is ’spotted’ sporting giant puffer jacket
How to keep your Node Graph organised in Nuke
How to keep your Node Graph organised in Nuke
How to use VDM brushes in Blender
How to use VDM brushes in Blender
Braided hair created in Blender
How to create braided hair in Blender
CGI in movies; a man looks over the top of a selection of Blu-ray cases
CGI in movies, what’s not to like?
An image from a video created in Simulon iPhone app
This new iPhone VFX app is already blowing minds
Latest in Advice
Raid character design tips; a female queen character in red leather armour carrying a large axe
Game art tips: how to breathe new life into a classic character design
Promo for Future Cards with the tagline "Leave the busywork to the machines"
What makes good designers great? Stand out from the crowd with these 9 expert tips
Homepage of portfolio by Colin Moy
8 expert tips for creating a killer design portfolio
someone paying with a phone and a Mastercard
Brands should invest in multisensory marketing – here’s why
A laptop using VideoProc Vlogger video-editing software
Laptop specs for video editing: All you need to know
hero image
GIMP vs. Photoshop: Could you make the switch?