HDRI and beach scene
I was wondering how te setup the HDRI ligthing for a beach scene like so many users do create?
I purchased a HDRI lighting package but how do i apply or even create these beach scenes that we see so may do?
I take it i use a Primitive background beach scene but then do i just double click on the type of lighting i want for my scene using my HDRI? Do i create a distant light and apply to it?
or do i have to apply it in my Environment options in the Render options.? I hope i make sense here
How do i create as seen in below, not that i have that version of HDRI...
Post edited by plarff on

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In Iray you can render with just the figure(s) and the HDRI, if Draw Dome and Draw ground are on in the Environment group in Render Settings. That will give your figues shadows on a flat ground plane, which may not be ideal but won't be too bad for a smooth beach.
Hi Richard, is that how the scene in the link i provided was done? I have done similar techniques as you have described, just wondering how to apply the HDRI correctly and how other guys do it.
Using the background in a Primitive is probably a better option than say photoshoppig the figures afterwards into a beach scene?
The HDRI itself will provide a background if you turn Draw Dome on, and yes that appears to be what the promo images for thats et are showing.
Ok, thx Richard...
There are a number of HDRIs that are beach settings. That is by far the simplest solution.
DAZ gave away a product that contains a beach HDRI. You can practice with that.
https://www.daz3d.com/daz-studio-iray-hdr-outdoor-environments