5 Visualization Terminologies Every Architecture Student Should Know
Whether you’re in architecture school or working on client projects, you’ve probably realized one thing: good visuals matter. But creating stunning images isn’t just about having the right software — it’s also about understanding the language of visualization.
These five terms will help you communicate better, choose the right formats, and get the most out of your tools. Think of this as your mini-dictionary for architecture visualization.
1 | Raster vs Vector:
What it means:
Raster images are made up of pixels. The more pixels (resolution), the sharper the image. Think JPEGs, PNGs, or TIFF files.
Vector images are made from paths and shapes defined by mathematical formulas. They can be scaled infinitely without losing quality. Think SVG, EPS, or AI files.
Why it matters in architecture:
Raster is best for renderings, textures, and photographs — anything with complex detail and subtle gradients.
Vector is perfect for diagrams, logos, icons, and any linework that needs to stay sharp at any size.
Pro tip: Use vector graphics for floor plans, section diagrams, and logos on your boards. Keep raster for realistic renderings and post-production in Photoshop.
Raster Images
Vector Images
2 | RGB VS CMYK
What it means:
RGB (Red, Green, Blue): The color mode used for digital screens.
CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black): The color mode used for printing.
Why it matters in architecture:
Work in RGB for anything meant to be viewed online — like your portfolio PDF, website images, or Instagram posts.
Switch to CMYK when preparing files for physical printing (portfolios, competition boards, posters).
Pro tip: Colors can shift when converting from RGB to CMYK. Always do a test print before a big presentation to make sure your renders look exactly how you want them.
RGB for online viewing
CMYK for physical printing
3 | RAW VS JPEG
What it means:
RAW files are uncompressed image files straight from the camera — they keep all the data captured by the sensor.
JPEGs are compressed files — smaller and easier to share, but with less flexibility for editing.
Why it matters in architecture:
If you take reference photos for textures, site analysis, or mood shots, shoot in RAW whenever possible. You’ll have more flexibility in adjusting exposure, white balance, and detail during editing.
Pro tip: Save the RAW file as your master copy, then export JPEGs for use in presentations or online uploads.
RAW
JPEG
4 | LEVELS VS CURVES
What it means:
Both Levels and Curves are tools in image editing software (like Photoshop) for adjusting brightness, contrast, and tones.
Levels: Use three sliders to adjust shadows, midtones, and highlights.
Curves: Use points on a curve to make more precise tonal adjustments.
Why it matters in architecture:
These tools are essential for post-processing renders. Levels can quickly fix flat lighting, while Curves can give you precise control over mood and atmosphere.
Pro tip:
Use Levels for quick adjustments.
Use Curves for more control — like deepening shadows while keeping highlights bright in a sunny render.
Levels
Curves
5 | Vibrance vs. Saturation
What it means:
Both Vibrance and Saturation adjust color intensity, but they work differently:
Saturation: Increases the intensity of all colors equally.
Vibrance: Increases the intensity of muted colors more than already-bright ones and protects skin tones from becoming too unnatural.
Why it matters in architecture:
When post-processing a render, using Saturation can easily push colors into an unrealistic range — grass becomes neon, wood textures look fake. Vibrance is more subtle and natural, making it better for architecture scenes.
Pro tip:
Use Vibrance for realistic render adjustments.
Use Saturation sparingly — maybe to boost a sunset scene or create a deliberately bold visual style.
Vibrance
Saturation
Why Knowing These Terms Makes You a Better Designer
What it means:
Both adjust color intensity, but:
Saturation: Boosts all colors equally.
Vibrance: Boosts muted colors more and avoids oversaturating skin tones.
Why it matters in architecture:
Over-saturated renders can look unrealistic (neon grass, cartoonish wood). Vibrance gives more natural results and keeps your scene believable.
Pro tip:
Use Vibrance for subtle improvements in realism. Reserve Saturation for dramatic, stylized visuals — and use sparingly.
Why These Terms Matter
Knowing these basics will help you:
Communicate clearly with collaborators, printers, and clients.
Avoid export mistakes that ruin quality.
Work faster by picking the right settings from the start.
Architecture is about telling a story through design — and mastering visualization language makes you a better storyteller.
Any questions or suggestions? Leave a comment!
Article by Stefani Fachini