Rendering in SketchUp

Part
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Part 1: Overview and Concepts
T
his book is designed to teach SketchUp users how to generate photorealistic images using 
integrated rendering programs (IRPs). It will teach you how to prepare models to be ren-
dered, and it will show you how to use integrated rendering programs to create graphic images 
(Fig. 1.1 and Fig. 1.2).
Fig. 1.1: 
A SketchUp model
Introduction to 
rendering in 
SketchUp
ChaPter
1

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Chapter 1: Introduction to Rendering in SketchUp
Fig. 1.2: 
SketchUp model rendered using Twilight Render
The step-by-step process you’ll learn includes five main areas:
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Placing texture images on model surfaces that appear like real-world materials
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Adding relevant detail to a SketchUp model to create more realistic renderings 
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Setting up SketchUp to establish the lighting environment for the rendering
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Fine-tuning the Integrated Rendering Program settings to generate the desired photo-
realistic images 
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Altering images in a photo-editing program to enhance renderings during the post-
production process 
In addition, you’ll learn how rendering programs generate an image and learn about the 
computer specifications those programs require. 
Integrated rendering Programs
Integrated rendering programs (IRPs) are third-party plug-ins that are installed and work 
within SketchUp (Fig. 1.3, Fig. 1.4, Fig. 1.5). They provide enhanced features that offer big 
advantages to users generating photorealistic images. First, IRPs use a limited number of 
menus and settings that are all accessible within SketchUp’s interface. Second, they allow you 
to use SketchUp’s features and settings, eliminating the need to learn a lot of new tools and 
methods. The combination of these two advantages provides an effortless learning curve, 
which means you’ll be producing photorealistic images quickly. 

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