Rendering in SketchUp

ChaPter
19

---

321
Chapter 19: A Rendering Overview
IrP Universal Features
The following general tool descriptions are common to most, if not all, IRPs. These tools are 
used to apply values and are part of the typical iterative rendering process described in this part.
texture/Material editor
Every IRP includes a Material Editor (Fig. 19.1). The Material Editor allows you to assign 
rendering values to textures. These values dictate how the IRP bounces light off the material 
surfaces to create photorealism. Typical settings include Bump (3D Contrast), Shininess, and 
Reflection. These values are reviewed in Chapter 21.
Fig. 19.1: 
The Material Editor (Twilight Render v2)
exterior Lighting
All IRPs reference the SketchUp Shadow menu to generate light. Many IRPs also have 
additional lighting features. Chapter 23 reviews lighting options.
Simulated Lighting
All IRPs allow you to place artificial lights into the model for rendering. Chapter 24 reviews 
simulated light options (Fig. 19.2, Fig. 19.3).

---

322
Part 5: The Iterative Rendering Process
Fig. 19.2: 
Point lights placed in SketchUp model
Fig. 19.3: 
Rendered simulated lighting image (Shaderlight)

---

323
Chapter 19: A Rendering Overview
resolution
The IRPs allow you to select or enter image output resolution. Resolution dictates the size 
(width and height) of a render. All resolution is measured in pixels, which can be converted 
into imperial units like inches. Many IRPs have preset resolutions and allow custom 
resolutions (Fig. 19.4). Chapter 22 reviews output resolution.
render Quality
All IRPs include a menu that sets render quality (Fig. 19.5). The better the quality, the more 
refined the final render will appear and the longer the render will take to process.