Rendering in SketchUp

Fig. 15.1: 
The Scene menu 
Camera Scenes, 
Composition, and 
Backdrops
Chapter
15

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Chapter 15: Camera Scenes, Composition, and Backdrops
Fig. 15.2: 
An eye-level view (top); a bird’s-eye view (bottom)

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Part 3: Modeling Detail
Composition
Composition refers to the placement, arrangement, and organization of visual elements in a 
scene. Composition, including placement of detailed components, helps determine the focus of 
attention in a rendering. This section deals with composition as it pertains to the placement 
of components and filling in a scene to make it look complete.
Composition Zones
Camera views have foregrounds, midgrounds, and backgrounds. These three zones are found 
in most images, including eye-level views, bird’s eye views, and elevated camera scenes. For 
modeling purposes, components and objects should be placed in these zones to create focus. In 
general, the midground is where the render view will focus. This is usually true for architecture, 
interior design, and site renderings (Fig. 15.3, Fig. 15.4, Fig. 15.5, Fig. 15.6).
Foreground
The foreground is the front area of the scene, closest to the viewer. Model detail in the foreground 
is useful for drawing attention to the midground, the area where focus is usually needed 
(Fig. 15.7, Fig. 15.8).
Fig. 15.3: 
The rendering of this building and site will be analyzed to show composition zones (Su Podium).

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Chapter 15: Camera Scenes, Composition, and Backdrops
Fig. 15.4: 
In this com-
position, blue represents 
the foreground, red the 
midground, and yellow 
the background.