Trying to Enhance Realism in 3D Renders | Users Weigh In on CG Art
Edited By
Amina Hassan
A user received mixed feedback as the quest for realism in 3D rendering continues. The latest rendering experiment posted online sparked conversations about lighting adjustments and texture improvements on May 22, 2025.
Notable Changes and User Reactions
The creator detailed significant alterations primarily in lighting, introducing area lights and a fake bounce for fill. Minor texture tweaks were applied, particularly on wood surfaces. This revamped approach aimed to enhance realism, but feedback pointed toward remaining flaws.
One commenter observed, "The gold is too uniform and doesn’t actually look like real gold; it’s more plastic." Others mirrored these sentiments, expressing the need for high shine and specular highlights similar to actual gold. Comments suggested the addition of imperfections like scratches and dust to push the render closer to reality.
Key Issues Identified
Feedback highlighted the following areas for improvement:
Texture Quality: Calls for more surface detail were prevalent. "The table has no details like bumps or displacement," noted one user.
Lighting and Shadows: Users emphasized a lack of proper occlusion, particularly around the ring and chain, making them appear to float.
Imperfections: Suggestions included adding dust and subtle markings. A user advised, "Make it slightly darker around the edges of the box."
Uplifting Feedback Despite Critiques
Interestingly, many users recognized the improvements made since the last version of the render. One comment read, "Big improvement, OP, good job!" Overall, there was a mix of positive reinforcement and constructive criticism.
"Everything looks super smooth and makes it unnatural- add grain, real world isn’t that perfect," another user remarked, underscoring the need for realism in textures.
Users continue to engage enthusiastically, emphasizing the journey toward achieving lifelike graphics. Could these technical suggestions be the key to mastering CG art?
Takeaways
▽ The overall effect of lighting adjustments remains under scrutiny.
🔍 "Add surface imperfections on the table, and you should be 95% there," was a common sentiment.
📈 General appreciation for improvements despite critiques on realism.
The Road Ahead for CGI Realism
As the demand for hyper-realistic CG art grows, there’s a strong chance that the community will continue refining techniques around texture and lighting. Experts estimate that within the next year, we may see significant advancements in software capabilities, allowing for better detail in textures and more realistic lighting effects. This trend will likely stem from user feedback and collaboration among artists on forums. By embracing imperfections and focusing on minute details, artists may be able to elevate their work closer to reality, tapping into a growing market for content creation in industries like gaming and film.
Lessons from the Renaissance
In the realm of art, the journey towards realism can draw a parallel to the Renaissance, a time when artists moved away from idealized forms to embrace authenticity in human expression. Just as painters experimented with perspective and detail, digital artists are now similarly engaged in refining their craft, pushing boundaries to achieve lifelike graphics. This shift not only nurtured technical skill but also sparked deeper connections between art and viewer perception. As today’s artists tackle realism in CG, they join a lineage of creators who, driven by critique and dialogue, continuously evolve their craft in pursuit of a fuller representation of life.