Flow Earplugs: Content Production
For the Flow Earplugs by AusAir, we blurred the lines between classic 3D rendering and modern AI technology. The goal: an ultra-premium, Apple-style aesthetic for the online shop and social media.
Services: E-commerce visualization, AI portraits
E-Commerce Next Level: Apple-style aesthetics meet AI
The look: Uncompromisingly clean
In e-commerce, there is no way to touch the product. The image must replace the sense of touch. For a product like the Flow Earplugs – small, delicate, and worn directly against the skin – customer trust is essential. Poor photos quickly look unhygienic or cheap. AusAir wanted a look reminiscent of Apple’s iconic aesthetic: absolutely clean, perfectly lit, and focused on material quality.
The challenge: Soft materials in 3D
Hard surfaces like metal are relatively easy in 3D. The challenge with earplugs is the material: silicone and foam. These materials partially absorb light, but also allow it to penetrate slightly and scatter beneath the surface. This physical effect is known as subsurface scattering (SSS). Without SSS, silicone looks like hard plastic. We spent a lot of time calibrating the SSS values so that the earplugs look soft, skin-friendly, and flexible.
The innovation: AI & 3D workflow
AI-generated portraits served as the foundation, which we imported into our 3D software. Using camera matching , we reconstructed the perspective and focal length of the AI image. We then placed the 3D models of the earplugs exactly on the ears of the AI models. The trick: we built "shadow catcher" geometries (invisible 3D objects in the shape of an ear) to capture the shadows of the earplugs. This makes it look as if the plug is truly sitting in the ear and casting a shadow on the pinna. At the same time, the model's skin tone was subtly reflected in the silicone of the earplug.
The result
AusAir received an extensive set of product images and lifestyle shots for their webshop. The cost savings compared to a traditional shoot with five different models were immense. At the same time, the image quality is absolutely consistent and scalable. If a new earplug color is released tomorrow, we can simply render it into the existing scenes – without having to rebook models. This is the future of e-commerce content.
Services:
- E-commerce product images
- AI-supported workflow (AI integration)
- Mixed CGI
- High-End Compositing
Your vision.
Our 3D expertise.
As your 3D agency in Cologne, we are excited to hear your ideas. We not only offer you technical expertise, but also an open ear for your vision. Contact us for a non-binding discussion — we look forward to getting to know you.
