Some computer parts...

[pbmax]

thanks for tips oli.

I'll try using a HDR image next. In the meantime, I set up a quick studio. Its a large box with white walls and one rectangle light emitter. Works pretty well but it seems to take longer to render...

Here a compression tube fitting using my "studio". I used the medium photonmap setting.

[Fletch]

looks great!

you might like to try one of the Medium+AA(high) settings from the Alternate AA settings for this detailed shot.


The HDR library I linked you to before has some GREAT Light Tent HDR (light tent = a perfect lighting studio for a product shot exactly like you are doing.)
example... from real life


You might find the Jewelry and Product Shots - the Right Light thread very ... umm... enlightening.

[pbmax]

this is with Rayman's HDR light tent & about a hundred MLT passes.

the bump map came out great, but the metal is a little off. it should have a more polished mirror look to it.

comments welcome !

[Ecuadorian]

With "more polished" do you mean "more mirror-like"?

I think it's already polished enough.

[Fletch]

wow! please share screen shot of material settings for the black reflective material for others to use
what do you think of the HDR lighting now?

[olishea]

try reducing metal reflection and add a subtle scratchmap in the bump channel (fletch posted one on this forum). you can use the UV tools plugin to cylindircally map the scratchmap around the surface. why not try using interior or interior+ settings....work very nicely.

[pbmax]

wow! please share screen shot of material settings for the black reflective material for others to use
what do you think of the HDR lighting now?

Yeah, HDR lighting is great for these product shots.

Here's reflective material...

[pbmax]

OK, here's just one more render of the compression tube fittings. The fittings are actually using the perfect mirror material with some fine bump maps to show the machining groves.

Also using this HDR by "zbyg":

[ruBBer]

how did you make the great surface of the tube fittings and the threads?

[Fletch]

I think he used the mirror template