I just started this stuff a week ago and im a little new to the lingo. I keep hearing about HDRI and GI spheres and rendering. Could anyone offer a simple explanation of this?

HDRI=high dynamic range image,they are 96bit panoramic light probes for high end programs.In bryce we fake the effect with a sphere and a panoramic image around the scene. GI=global illumination,it envolves radiosity(light refraction and stuff,ambience,ect) and creates soft shadows and very smooth results.color radiates of one another.In bryce we fake it with a lightdome,and or trueambience,and other methods....thier is no set in stone way,as people here have various set ups,with different results,effects,strengths&weakness'.

HDRI stands for High Dynamic Range Images. They are used mainly for highly realistic reflections, although you can use them to light your scenes without actually using lights.

GI stands for Global Illumination. GI spheres are semi- and half-domes of lights that are used to simulate natural light and soft shadows.

Do a forum search and you will find many threads that deal with these two subjects.

That's about as simple as you can get with these very complex subjects. And welcome to your new Bryce addiction!

HTH,

Mike

thanks that cleared it up a bit :)

Ooops! Crosspost!

lol!!

and it's not a dumb question..;)