Hey folks,
I’m launching the alpha version of my new plugin Rayscaper. Rayscaper is an interactive, photorealistic render engine for SketchUp that is fun to use. Rayscaper is currently alpha software and is free to use.
You can find the first public alpha release of Rayscaper version 0.7.0 in the plugin store: https://sketchucation.com/pluginstore?pln=Rayscaper
Here is a quick start video for Rayscaper:
Youtube Video
The video uses this SketchUp file: RS demo scene by Rich O'Brien
I will regularly post updated builds with bug fixes and new features in this forum. For every new version, I will create a new forum post. Please report bugs/issues/comments for that version by posting under the respective topic.
Remember that this alpha software is unstable. If you don't have a high tolerance for frustration, please check again in some time. It will become more stable with every release.
With alpha software, there are some important caveats:
- The software can crash anytime for no apparent reason.
- Data loss or corruption might occur while using the software.
- The render output can change between versions while we fix bugs in the render engine.
- Until we are at a stable 1.0, previously saved configurations could be incompatible with newer versions.
When you find bugs, please be descriptive in reporting the problem:
- Provide instructions on how to reproduce the problem.
- Including a screencast or screenshot of the problem would be great.
- It would be even better if you sent me a minimal test scene so I could reproduce the problem.
- Rayscaper creates a log file under your home directory named SUEX_Rayscaper.log (e.g., C:/Users/Thomas Loockx/SUEX_Rayscaper.log). Attach that log file to your bug report on the forum.
- SketchUp creates a log file for each session, also attach this file. You can find it in your temp directory (Use explorer on Windows, and type %Temp% in the address bar). The file format looks like: SketchUpLog-2023-09-06-08_17_10.log
I’m a solo developer, so I must manage my time. Here’s how I prioritize bug reports:
- Crashes, my primary goal is to deliver rock-solid software.
- Render bugs. The output should be correct.
- Workflow issues are things that don’t work well or make the software clunky.
- New render features.
Rayscaper is commercial software, and I aim to make money selling this software. Once the software is stable and feature-complete enough, I will start selling it.You can find the tentative roadmap here.
Have fun and maintain a positive attitude. Crashes and bugs will happen, but let's work together to improve the software! Please do share your work in progress. That helps me maintain a positive attitude when I’m drowning in bug reports
Special thanks to Rich O'Brien. Without his testing, support, and feedback over several months, this release wouldn't have happened. Thank you sir!
Happy rendering!