How To Present Molecular Structures Visually

[Kasew]

Hi! I need to create a visual for a specific protein-ligand interaction for a poster session. I want it to look more modern than the typical "ball-and-stick" models we see everywhere. Does anyone know of any techniques or styles that make molecular structures look more dynamic?

[Lasw]

To make things look more dynamic, I’ve started playing around with surface renderings and different transparency levels. It gives the molecules a much more "real" feel. I actually got inspired to try this after seeing the portfolio at Ella Maru Studio Scientific illustrations and design - Ella Maru Studio. Their expertise in scientific images and animations is incredible, especially when it comes to molecular biology. They use lighting in a way that really highlights the binding sites, which makes the whole structure pop. I’d suggest looking at their work to see how they use depth of field. It makes the interaction look like it is actually happening in a 3D space rather than just being a flat icon on a page.