Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Shadows
The Shadows toggle is available in the Graphic Display Options dialog box, but
there's also a toggle in the view control bar. With this button, there is no fly-out—simply select
it to toggle shadows on and off based on sun settings we will discuss later in this chapter. The
ability to turn shadows on in real time is a terrific feature that helps you add an improved
sense of depth to your view (Figure 11.17).
Figure 11.17
Default shadows on
Keep a couple of things in mind when turning on shadows. First, it takes a bit longer for the
screen to refresh when shadows are turned on. So you'll probably want to keep shadows off
in your working views as you zoom in, zoom out, and rotate.
Second, the default settings could use adjusting depending on how you like to have the view
rendered. Sometimes it's more valuable to show the space well lit than to show an exact time
of day for the sun position. To set the sun to an angle that is not dependent on a location and
time, choose the Sun Setting button in the Lighting group of options. This button will report
the current preset (Sunlight From Top Right). Clicking this button will open the Sun Settings
dialog box (Figure 11.18). Notice that the Lighting radio button is selected and an azimuth
and altitude are specified as being relative to the view. This will show a sun angle regardless
of the building's orientation or location on the globe.
Back in the Graphic Display Options dialog box, you also have the ability to modify the
intensity of the sun, ambient light, and shadows with the sliders (Figure 11.19). Changing
these can dramatically change the amount of shade or shadow that appears in your view.
