3d Worlds Part 2
2nd edition — by Patrick McNeil — Sep. 18, 2006
The Design Element
It is amazing how much life just a little bit of depth gives to a design. Most of these sites have a single element which brings depth to the page. The illusion of depth is very useful. In the case of
Colin McKinneys
portfolio site you quickly notice the figure in the top left corner. The piece of paper jumps off the page, in part due to the contrast, but the visual trickery created by placing the figure behind the paper brings it out so much more. This is a brilliant way to subtly emphasize something, and in this case, the most important bit of information on the page.
There are many ways to work this sort of depth into your design, and this set of sites provides a diverse collection of inspiration. Some are more extreme then others, but they all have something that breaks the borders and creates space.
Sample Usage
Links
Basic 3d illustrator tutorial
Map
Art Illustrator tutorial (quicktime)
All 3d Illustrator tutorials on adobe.com
More Extrude & Bevel Tutorials
Creating
Basic Reflections
Understanding Reflections
Ultra simple reflections tutorial
