Using HDRi and Dome Light in Vray 3.4 for Sketchup

Introduction

• Presenter: Minh from Architecture Inspirations.
• Topic: How to use HDRi and Dome Light in Vray 3.4 for Sketchup.

Initial Setup

• Open the Asset Editor and go to the Light List.
• Default setup includes sunlight in the model.
• Rendering uses Sketchup's shadows settings.

Turning off Sunlight

• To use Dome Light or HDRI, first turn off the Sunlight:
  • Click the settings arrow.
  • Uncheck the sunlight box.

Adding Dome Light

• Use the Lights toolbar to add Dome Light:
  • Click the icon, then a spot in the model.
  • Dome Light appears in the list.
• Test render with default settings.

Using HDRI Maps

• By default, Vray's Dome Light has an HDRI map.
• Replace with a custom HDRI map:
  • Download free maps from resources (links in description).
  • Load the custom HDRI map via a button in the settings.

Rendering Adjustments

• Interactive Mode Rendering:
  • Update render with new HDRI.
  • Adjust brightness by increasing intensity.
• Note: Different HDRIs require different intensity adjustments.

Dome Light Orientation

• Arrow inside Dome Light indicates the sun's direction.
• To change HDRI orientation:
  • Go to Dome Light settings.
  • Check "lock dome light" to sync HDRI texture with Dome Light rotation.
  • Use Interactive Render to see changes instantly.

Spherical Option

• The horizon issue:
  • If the ground is not visible, check the "spherical" option.

Additional Features

• Materials Mockups:
  • Use dome light for visualizing different materials.
• Depth of Field Effect:
  • Optionally add to models.

Custom Backgrounds

• Turn off HDRI texture to make background invisible:
  • Use Vray Frame Buffer Window, enable Background settings.
  • Load a custom background image.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to like the video and comment.
• Invitation for suggestions on next topics.
• Closing note: Stay inspired.