Rendering in SketchUp

Fig. 18.20: 
The resulting render has a good level of contrast and depth.

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Part 4: Setting Light with Shadows
Illuminate the interior of a building by casting light directly at the facade. The lower the 
angle (winter months on the date slider), the more light will enter through windows, doors, and 
other portals. The intent is to light up the facade and the building interior (Fig. 18.21). Ensure 
that the interior contains furnishings and other features. Glass materials should be set with 
IRP values, allowing light to pass through and not just reflect off the glass windows (Fig. 18.22).
Fig. 18.21: 
SketchUp model with Shadows set to cast into and through the windows, lighting up the 
interior of the model
Fig. 18.22: 
The resulting render has a good level of depth, context, and interest.

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Chapter 18: Composing Light
Interior
Exterior lighting can illuminate an interior. Casting light in an interior space is identical to 
casting light into a building interior. The difference is that the view is set inside. Cast light 
through portals like doors, windows, and other openings. The portal must be open or utilize 
a transparent material such a glass. Once SketchUp Shadows are on, shadow direction will 
stream through the portals.
To cast daylight through a ceiling, convert that interior ceiling into a group. Next, place it 
on a layer and turn the layer off, hiding the ceiling. In essence, you are removing the interior 
“lid” allowing daylight into the scene (Fig. 18.23, Fig. 18.24, Fig. 18.25, Fig. 18.26).
This is an excellent and quick way to assess an interior model prior to adding simulated 
lighting.
Fig. 18.23: 
The interior roof is made into a component and placed on its own layer.
Site plans
You can spread contrast throughout a scene to enhance your site plan renderings. Site 
elements and vegetation should possess offset and dark shadows but be surrounded by 
exposed surfaces reflecting light (Fig. 18.27, Fig. 18.28).

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