If you want to light a 3D scene using an image, what you really need is a format that can store more than just 8 bits of data per channel so that you can have a much larger range of brightness. The problem with LDR images is that they are limited to a relatively small range of brightness, from 0 to 255, which is not actually all that much. An example of an LDR image is a JPG file. They store 8 bits of data for each of the red, green and blue channels for every pixel. Most photos and images in general are what I call “LDR” images, or Low Dynamic Range images. “Dynamic range” is the measurement of how much brightness information is contained in an image, so a “high dynamic range” image is an image that has a very large range of brightness, more than you can see on your screen in one go actually. “HDRI” stands for High Dynamic Range Image.

If you’re already confident that you know what an HDRI actually is, scroll down to the “Creating an HDRI” section.Īn HDRI is a panoramic photograph that covers the entire field of vision and contains a large amount of data (typically 32 bits per pixel per channel) which can be used to emit light into a CG scene. This is by no means the only way to make an HDRI, but it is a good introduction to the process.īy the end of this tutorial, you’ll have made your very own 360º HDR environment map that can be used to light a 3D scene.īuckle your seat belts boys and girls, because this is gonna be a long one!īefore we actually get into making anything, it’s important to thoroughly understand what it is that we’re doing, and demystify some of the confusion around the subject. I’ve been making HDRIs for a couple of years now, so I hope I can save you some time and experimentation. One mistake like using the wrong focal length or choosing a slow shutter speed can mean all your time has been wasted and you’ll have to start all over again.

Not only do they provide accurate lighting, but they can be seen in the background and in reflections, which makes them all the more immersive.Ĭreating a high quality HDRI from scratch is quite a complicated task that requires very specific equipment and a meticulous workflow. They are essentially snapshots of the real world that contain exquisitely detailed lighting information, which can transport your bland CG objects into realistic virtual environments. There is no easier or quicker way to light a CG scene than to use an HDRI. A simple 3D scene that was lit using only the HDRI above (no additional lamps)

Indoor hdri files