so, if that file had been of a torch beam with all the correct shades and tones you would get a very realistic effect.
environment?? you would have to wait about three days (all going well) to get any sort of qualified answer from me.., one of the other guys might help.
i disagree strongly that maya simulates light in any real way, it tries to copy the physics of it but doesn't do too well on reflected light, half shadow.., often you will need three point lighting on nearly every object to get a really good look, or to change a good scene into a brilliant scene.., and three point lighting on every object is not the behavior of 'real' light.., not even a good simulation. dont gt me wrong,, maya has a good try at it with all its photons and what not.., but you will need to understand what its limitations are.., for example.., your flat cans.., a result of the lighting.., they look as though they are floating off the ground too. you can also add depth be pulling light out with a - intensity, maya lights will pull light out if you use negative values.
take it easy and life will be easy
Last edited by mirek03; 15-06-2007 at 08:30 AM.