Rendering in SketchUp

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Chapter 31: Postproduction Effects
For best results, you can combine methods when it is appropriate. For example, haze, grain, 
and clay overlays will enhance the realism in exterior renders. Similarly, interior renders will 
benefit from adjusting the lighting levels, fixing hotspots, and altering color hue/saturation 
(Fig. 31.6).
Fig. 31.6: 
Multiple effects and alterations were made to the image used for the cover of this book: the original ren-
der (1), a background image in the process of being added (2), a clay render overlay enhances shadows and contrast 
(3), interior scene rendered separately and combined into the overall image (4)
Using Original Images and Layers
Before altering the image, make a copy of the original image 
by saving a copy of the file or duplicating the original image 
layer. A copied or duplicate layer of the graphic will allow you 
to compare or undo any modifications.
The typical Photoshop process uses layers. Using layers 
will allow you to mask specific parts of the image, apply 
effects, and make adjustments. To make some of the sug-
gested alterations, you’ll need to use layers (Fig. 31.7).
Masking
Masking is used to isolate or select specific areas of a 
photograph. There are several ways to mask objects in 
Photoshop. Common masking tools include: Magic Wand, 
Paths, Pen, and Lassos. You can also select by color range and 
create a masking layer (Fig. 31.8).
Fig. 31.7: 
Layers 
are just as useful in 
Photoshop as they 
were in SketchUp.

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Part 7: The Photoshop Postproduction Process
Fig. 31.8: 
Masking parts of the image is an important part of the postproduction process. The image shows two 
types of Photoshop masks being applied.
Light and Color
The following modifications affect light, contrast, and image color. These tools are meant to be 
used with the various effects and methods outlined in the rest of this chapter and in Chapter 33.

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