For many, the word computer graphics can be confusing, so here is a brief explanation of some of the terms:
3d illustration: illustrations produced using 3d software, rendered and then imported into Photoshop to be finished.
3d models, 3d modeling: using specialised software, the process of developing wireframe representations, or models, of objects which can be rotated and viewed from all angles.
3d modells, 3d modelling: see above
3d rendering: this is the process by which 3d wireframe models are painted or textured with whatever colour or texture you require. Photorealistic effects can often be achieved.
CAD (computer aided design): is the use of computer technology to aid in the design of a product.
Visuals or visualisation: a technique for creating digital images, diagrams or animations to describe things that possibly do, but quite often don’t yet exist.Editorial illustration: images created to complement or explain newspaper and magazine articles.
Vizuals or vizualization: see above
Architectural illustration: is the construction in 3d and rendering into a 2d image of buildings, which may then be imported into and finished off in Photoshop. Often called artists impressions.
Architectural rendering: is the process of colouring and texturing of 3d wireframe models of buildings.
Line illustration or line drawing: a style of two-dimensional art featuring, unshaded, contrasting colors. Usually created in Adobe Illustrator.
Technical illustration: is the construction in perspective, and rendering, of illustrations to inform the use of or construction of technical subjects. These can be in the form of exploded drawings or cutaway illustrations often used for instruction manuals, parts manuals, operators handbooks, illustrated parts catalogues in technical publications.
Photoshop illustration: digital illustrations done with photoshop on its own using it as a paint programme, or in conjunction with other computer packages such as Adobe Illustrator or Maxon Cinema 4d.
Vector illustration: is a clean, often line drawing style of digital illustration, with flat colour or graduated fills as produced by programmes such as Adobe Illustrator or Corel Draw. Vector drawings are infinately scalable, as opposed to raster images, which are made up of pixels.
Diagrams, diagramms: are 2d or 3d representations of information. They can include charts, graphs, network diagrams, flowcharts, pie charts, etc. Also known as information graphics.
Maps: these can be illustrated in many ways from simple flat road maps and street plans, to highly detailed relief maps.
Photo retouching, image retouching: the modification and enhancement of digital images and photographs.