Dinosaurs: Image FAQ

Q1. How do you create your dinosaurs?

1. First, we make a 3D model using the latest scientific data and skeletons as guides.

3D dinosaur models: From left to right
Top: 1. Allosaurus, 2. Pteranodon
Bottom: 1. Suchomimus, 2. Tyrannosaurus

3D dinosaur models.

Top left: Allosaurus, Top right: Pteranodon

Bottom left: Suchomimus, Bottom right: Tyrannosaurus

Skeletal reference:

2. Next, we add colour by applying a texture map.

Allosaurus texture map

3. Once we've applied a texture map, we use a bump map to create the illusion of depth and texture, adding details like scales and skin folds.

Example dinosaur bump map. In 3D modeling, a bump map is used to create the illusion of depth and texture on the surface of a 3D model.

A bump map is used to create the illusion of depth and texture.

4. After applying both the texture map and bump map, we can produce our first render.

Image showing the process of creating our dinosaurs. Step 1. Create a 3D model. Step 2. Add colour using a texture map. 3. Add detail, such as scales and skin, using a bump map. 4. Generate our first render.

From 3D model to final render - a 3D rendered Allosaurus

5. Finally, we use stock photos and AI (Artficial Intelligence) to improve the overall look of the image.

Realistic 3D render of an Allosaurus dinosaur in a prehistoric desert setting.

A 3D render of an Allosaurus

Q2. Do you use AI to generate your images?

Certain elements of our images are created using AI technology. This approach is often employed to enhance realism, such as by adding lifelike backgrounds or improving details like feathers and skin texture. Science-resources.co.uk is committed to transparency in the use of generative AI, which is why all our images that have been enhanced using AI have been labelled as such. This ensures that site visitors are aware of our use of generative AI and can make informed decisions about engaging with our content and services.

Example of an AI generated background

Upscaling example

Q3. Can I share your images online, such as on my website, or use them for school/research purposes?

Absolutely. As stated in our terms of use, we encourage sharing our content as long as it remains unaltered (e.g., no cropping or removal of the website address). Additionally, we request that you credit the image and, where possible, provide a link back to our website. (See examples below)

How to use our images.

Q4. Can I use your images to train my own AI models?

Currently, science-resources.co.uk does not consent to the use of its images for training artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Please ensure that all images from science-resources.co.uk are excluded from any AI training datasets.

Q5. How long have you been creating Dinosaur images?

We have been creating Dinosaur images since 2002. Whilst some of our images have changed little over time...

Some have changed quite a lot!

Q6. What software do you use to create your Dinosaur images?

Software used:

3D models: Blender
Image maps / bump maps: ZBrush / Paint 3D
Image editing: Adobe Photoshop / Procreate (iOS)
Generative AI (For upscaling & background images): Adobe Photoshop / AI Leonardo

Tags: How to make a dinosaur, how to make a realistic dinosaur