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How can I achieve realistic lighting in a low-poly scene without increasing render times significantly?
Asked on Feb 07, 2026
Answer
Achieving realistic lighting in a low-poly scene involves balancing light sources and optimizing settings to maintain efficiency. Focus on using efficient lighting techniques that enhance realism without adding unnecessary complexity to the render process.
Example Technique:
- Step 1 – Use HDRI maps for ambient lighting to create a realistic environment.
- Step 2 – Implement a few strategically placed area lights to highlight key scene elements.
- Step 3 – Adjust light intensity and color to match the desired mood while keeping samples low to reduce render times.
Additional Comment:
- Consider using baked lighting for static elements to save on render times.
- Optimize light bounces and samples in your render settings for efficiency.
- Test render small sections to find the best balance between quality and speed.
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