Rendering in SketchUp

Fig. 19.14: 
Model with 2D trees (SketchUp)

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Part 5: The Iterative Rendering Process
Fig. 19.15: 
Use the Replace Me feature to swap out the 2D trees with 3D detailed versions (Shaderlight).

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Chapter 20: Steps of the Iterative Rendering Process
N
o initial rendering will ever look correct. By following the iterative rendering process, 
you will be able to produce rendered images in a coherent and speedy fashion. You will 
need to refine the model and the associated texture and lighting values to achieve the best 
possible output. The iterative rendering process entails two general steps:
1. 
Values are applied to textures, lighting, render quality, and render resolution.
2. 
A series of draft image renders are generated, steadily leading to the final image.
Rendering can be a time-consuming process. You’ll spend lots of time waiting for the com-
puter to complete an image. Understanding the factors that affect rendering times will help 
you determine the best iterative rendering process for your specific needs. You can control 
such factors to shorten the duration of a rendering. Quickly produced renders serve as drafts 
that allow users to evaluate textures, adjust lighting and cameras, make modifications, and 
run additional draft renderings.
The following factors affect the length of time it takes to render an image. All of these fac-
tors can be controlled, shortening or lengthening render times.
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Exterior versus Simulated Light: Exterior light produced from SketchUp Shadow 
menu lighting or image-based lighting will render faster than simulated lights such as 
area, point, spot, and IES profile lights. Models with simulated lights should use exterior 
lighting for the initial draft.
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