Realistic Photo Rendering

ScottyD

Hello everyone! My name is Scott Dahl and I am a custom woodworker from IL.
I have been using Sketchup basic for a couple of years. I find that clients really like
that they can view there finished commission before signing on the dotted line.

I am looking for a realistic photo rendering application that is fairly easy to use with Sketchup basic.

If you are using one, what is it, and how do you like it?

           Thank you for any and all advice,
                                        Scotty D.

Dave R

Hi Scott, welcome to SCF.

I also use SketchUp mainly for woodworking projects. I don't find the need to make photo-realistic renderings very often but when I do, I find Kerkythea works quite well enough. It really isn't very difficult to use and it is free. There are many other options available. I would suggest that you read through the forum and search "Rendering." Just like asking what the best router or table saw is, you'll get many different answers none of which are absolutely true. Try out a variety of them. Many have free trials so you can give them a shot.

This is a render I did awhile back in Kerkythea.

The biggest thing you can do no matter which rendering aplication you choose, is make sure you are using good materials. Those little square ones that are common just don't cut it for real wood.

ScottyD

Thanks Dave, Very nice drawing! I will check that out and do some foraging around the forums.

Dave R

Thank you, Scott.

Here's the link to Kerkythea.

ScottyD

Thanx for the link Dave!