In the world of 3D creation—whether you’re rendering photorealistic scenes in Blender, animating in Cinema 4D, or sculpting in ZBrush—your hardware plays a critical role in the speed and quality of your work. One of the most important aspects is GPU memory—specifically, the difference between dedicated and shared GPU memory. This article will break down these two types of GPU memory, how they affect 3D workflows, and what you should look for when choosing or optimizing your setup. Let’s explore with iRender.

GPU memory—often referred to as VRAM (Video Random Access Memory)—is used to store graphics data such as textures, geometry, shaders, frame buffers, and more. It’s essential for real-time rendering, viewport interaction, and GPU-accelerated tasks like ray tracing or simulation.

There are two main types:

• Dedicated GPU memory: Physical VRAM built into a discrete graphics card.
• Shared GPU memory: System RAM borrowed for graphics tasks, mainly in integrated or lower-tier GPUs.

Dedicated GPU memory refers to the memory that’s physically built into a discrete (dedicated) graphics card. Think NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 or AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX. This memory, typically labeled as VRAM (Video RAM), is reserved exclusively for GPU tasks, like rendering, shading, or real-time viewport preview.

Key Characteristics:

• Faster bandwidth: VRAM is designed for high-speed parallel processing.
  
• Independent from system RAM: It doesn’t borrow memory from your main system.
  
• Better performance: Ideal for handling large textures, complex meshes, and high-resolution viewport rendering.
  

Why It Matters for 3D Artists:

• High performance: VRAM offers high bandwidth and low latency, critical for rendering large scenes and working with high-resolution assets.
• Stability: Large 3D scenes often exceed 8 GB or even 16 GB of memory. When rendering high-poly scenes or using GPU-accelerated engines like Cycles, OctaneRender, or Redshift, the GPU relies heavily on VRAM. If your scene exceeds the available VRAM, it can cause crashes or force your system to fall back on slower system memory, dramatically affecting performance.
• Viewport interaction: Tasks like sculpting, physics simulation, or shading nodes rely heavily on quick memory access.

Example: A detailed scene with 8K textures, volumetrics, and multiple light sources might easily consume 12–16 GB of VRAM.

Shared GPU memory is a portion of your system’s RAM that the GPU can access if it runs out of dedicated VRAM. This is common in integrated graphics (like Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon Vega), where the GPU is part of the CPU and doesn’t have its own dedicated VRAM.

Shared GPU memory is useful for basic tasks like modeling, sculpting low-poly assets, or working on simpler scenes. But if you’re rendering or doing heavy viewport work, performance will suffer.

Key Characteristics:

• Slower than VRAM: Because it’s standard system memory, not optimized for graphical workloads.
  
• Dynamic allocation: The system decides how much RAM can be used as shared memory.
  
• Can help—but not replace—dedicated VRAM: It’s a fallback, not a replacement.
  

Limitations in 3D Workflows

• Lower bandwidth: System RAM is slower than VRAM, causing bottlenecks during intensive tasks.
  
• Less memory available overall: If 4 GB of your 16 GB RAM is being used as GPU memory, that’s less for your OS and other apps.
  
• Poor scalability: Great for light modeling or UI-based design work, but not for high-end rendering or VFX.

Example: A laptop with 16 GB of RAM might allocate 4–6 GB as shared memory. However, the bandwidth and latency differences mean it’s not suitable for serious GPU rendering.

As a 3D artist, the type of GPU memory your system uses can make or break your creative workflow. Here’s how to decide what works best for your needs:

Choose a Dedicated GPU If:

Dedicated GPU memory is a must-have for any artist working with complex 3D pipelines. Choose a discrete GPU if:

• You regularly render scenes or animations: Whether you’re using Cycles in Blender, Arnold in Maya, or Redshift in Cinema 4D, these engines heavily rely on VRAM to handle geometry, shaders, and high-resolution outputs efficiently.

• You work with simulations: Fluid dynamics, smoke, fire, cloth, and particle simulations can be VRAM-intensive, especially during baking or real-time previews.

• Your scenes use 4K or 8K textures: Textures are among the biggest VRAM consumers. A few 8K textures can easily consume multiple gigabytes of memory.

• You need real-time performance: Applications like Unreal Engine, Unity, and NVIDIA Omniverse require real-time rendering capabilities that only dedicated GPUs can offer. Shared memory simply can’t keep up with the performance demand.

Note: Minimum VRAM recommended for modern workflows in 2025: 12–16 GB
High-end scenes, especially those with volumetrics or ray tracing, may require 24 GB or more.

Use Shared GPU Memory Only If:

Shared memory can be a temporary or entry-level solution, but it comes with limitations. It’s only suitable if:

• You’re a student or hobbyist: If you’re just learning the basics or practicing low-poly modeling, integrated graphics can suffice.

• You mainly model or texture low-poly assets: Tasks that don’t involve real-time rendering or GPU-accelerated rendering can run on minimal hardware.

• You don’t render using GPU acceleration: If you’re using CPU rendering engines or just exporting assets, GPU memory becomes less critical.

For any 3D artist aiming to work efficiently and professionally, dedicated GPU memory is a necessity. It provides the raw speed, stability, and memory bandwidth required to handle complex scenes, render high-res outputs, and work efficiently in real-time environments.

However, high-end GPUs with large VRAM (like 24 GB or more) come at a steep cost and may not be accessible for every artist, especially freelancers or small studios.

That’s where iRender comes in. iRender is proud to be one of the best GPU service providers on the market. We provide you with high-configuration models with advanced specifications such as AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 3955WX @ 3.9 – 4.2GHz or AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 5975WX @ 3.6 – 4, 5GHz, 256GB RAM, 2TB NVMe SSD storage. Most importantly, we always update to the latest GPU technology, with 1/2/4/6/8 x RTX3090/RTX4090.

Under the IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) model you will have full control over the machine via a remote desktop app, similar to TeamViewer but more stable. You will be able to proactively install the software and use it on the server just like using a personal computer. You can find many server packages with high-end configurations that are extremely suitable for complex projects.

We’re always happy to help you with any questions. If you have any problems or questions, don’t hesitate to contact our 24/7 support team. Or via Whatsapp: 0912 785 500 for free advice and support.

Right now iRender has a SPECIAL PROMOTION program with a 100% bonus for the first transaction within 24 hours of your registration. It means that you can get an extra 100% of the money you recharged the first time. And points never expire, so you can use them at any time.

Sign up for an account today to experience and enjoy our services.

Thank you & Happy Rendering!

Source and image:Intel, Reddit, pugetsystems, cgdirector

Cinema 4D continues to be one of the most powerful and artist-friendly 3D software platforms available today. Its intuitive interface, robust animation toolset, and tight integration with rendering engines like Redshift, Octane, and Arnold make it a go-to for motion designers, VFX artists, and 3D professionals around the world.

In 2025, the performance of your GPU is still one of the most critical factors in how fast—and how smoothly—you can create and render your projects in Cinema 4D. Whether you’re rendering frames for a product animation, a music video, or a full-on cinematic sequence, having the right graphics card can save hours or even days. Let’s break down the top GPU choices for Cinema 4D in 2025 and help you decide which one fits your workflow best. In this blog post, let’s explore it with iRender.

Cinema 4D’s performance depends heavily on your graphics card, especially when paired with GPU-based render engines like Redshift and Octane. While CPU still plays a role, the GPU is doing the heavy lifting when it comes to real-time viewport performance and final frame rendering.

Cinema 4D has increasingly leaned on GPU acceleration for tasks like:

• Viewport performance: A smoother, more responsive viewport means faster iteration.
• Redshift rendering: Since Maxon acquired Redshift, its integration with Cinema 4D has become deeper and more optimized, and Redshift is a GPU-based renderer.
• Third-party GPU render engines: Octane, Arnold GPU, and Cycles 4D all benefit from a strong GPU.
  

For artists using Redshift (which is native to C4D now), CUDA and OptiX are the primary technologies used, meaning NVIDIA GPUs are still the top choice in most cases.

• VRAM: 24GB GDDR6X
  
• Rendering Performance: Industry-leading performance for both viewport interaction and final renders.
  
• Best For: Professionals working on high-resolution scenes and fast turnaround deadlines.
  

The RTX 4090 remains unmatched for GPU rendering in 2025. If you use Redshift, Octane, or Arnold GPU, this is the best choice—no question.

• VRAM: 20GB GDDR6X
  
• Rendering Performance: Slightly behind the 4090, but still a beast.
  
• Best For: High-end freelancers and studios on a tighter budget.
  

The 4080 Super is a strong contender, especially for users who don’t need the full 24GB of VRAM. Excellent for most professional workloads.

• VRAM: 48GB GDDR6
  
• Rendering Performance: Fantastic for memory-intensive workloads.
  
• Best For: Artists using Mac or looking for a large VRAM buffer.
  

While not as fast in pure CUDA-based engines, the W7900 shines for projects where memory limits are a bottleneck.

• VRAM: 48GB
  
• Rendering Performance: Enterprise-level power, optimized for stability.
  
• Best For: Large studios, production houses, and heavy simulation/render farms.
  

This card is built for reliability over long renders and simulations. Pricey, but ideal for demanding pipelines.

• Unified Memory: Up to 192GB
  
• Rendering Performance: Great performance in native Metal-supported renderers like Redshift for Mac.
  
• Best For: Mac-based designers prioritizing integration and ecosystem.
  

The M3 Ultra is a monster when it comes to general performance and rendering, especially if you’re locked into Apple’s ecosystem.

• Beginner or Hobbyist:

If you’re a beginner or hobbyist just starting out in Cinema 4D, the NVIDIA RTX 4070 Super is a fantastic entry point in 2025. It offers a great balance between cost and performance, making it ideal for learning, personal projects, and light client work. With enough CUDA cores and VRAM to handle Redshift and Octane renders on a moderate scale, it’s perfect for students or aspiring freelancers.

• Freelancer or Mid-Level Pro

For freelancers or mid-level professionals who handle more demanding projects and client work regularly, the NVIDIA RTX 4080 Super is highly recommended. It delivers excellent performance for complex scenes, significantly faster render times, and long-term reliability. This card is a great investment if you’re working on commercials, 3D animations, or product visuals and want to future-proof your setup without going all the way to a 4090.

• Studio-Level Artist or VFX Professional

If you’re a studio artist, full-time 3D professional, or VFX creator handling high-resolution assets and tight deadlines, then the NVIDIA RTX 4090 is the clear winner. As the most powerful consumer GPU available in 2025, it offers blazing-fast render speeds, real-time interactivity, and enough VRAM for the heaviest of scenes. It’s the best card for serious production environments where every second counts.

• Large Studio or Enterprise

For large studios, VFX pipelines, or enterprise-level productions, the NVIDIA RTX 6000 Ada Generation stands out. With 48GB of ECC VRAM, pro-grade drivers, and ultra-reliable thermal performance, it’s built for constant rendering, simulations, and team-based pipelines. This card is ideal for large-scale projects and those who require absolute stability over long rendering sessions.

• Mac Users

Mac users have an increasingly strong option in the Apple M3 Ultra, found in the latest Mac Studio and Mac Pro machines. With up to 192GB of unified memory and strong Metal-accelerated performance in Redshift and Octane X, it offers a smooth and powerful experience within the Apple ecosystem. It’s a great choice for motion designers and 3D artists who also work with tools like Final Cut Pro or Logic Pro.

In 2025, there’s no shortage of powerful GPUs for Cinema 4D users. Whether you’re building your dream workstation or rendering on the cloud, the right choice depends on your specific workflow, renderer, and budget.

If you want full control and local power, the RTX 4090 is still king. But if flexibility, scalability, and budget are key, iRender is an incredibly smart and modern solution.

Moreover, if investing in expensive hardware isn’t feasible, or you only need high-end performance occasionally, cloud rendering with iRender is a powerful alternative. Platforms like iRender offer access to multi-GPU setups featuring RTX 4090s or 3090s, letting you scale your rendering power on demand. It’s especially useful for freelancers or small teams working on deadline-driven projects without the upfront cost of a high-end workstation.

In 2025, iRender stands out as one of the most powerful and flexible cloud rendering platforms available for Cinema 4D users. Whether you’re a freelancer, a small team, or part of a large studio, iRender gives you instant access to high-performance GPU servers—featuring top-tier hardware like the RTX 4090, RTX 3090, and even multi-GPU configurations. Most importantly, we always update to the latest GPU technology, with 1/2/4/6/8 x RTX3090/RTX4090, we also have all servers with Cinema4D preinstalled and give you 1 license for free to use.

Under the IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) model you will have full control over the machine via a remote desktop app, similar to Teamviewer but more stable. You will be able to proactively install the software and use it on the server just like using a personal computer. You can find many server packages with high-end configurations that are extremely suitable for complex projects.

We’ve put the RTX 4090 and RTX 3090 to the test across different GPU configurations (1/2/4/6/8 GPUs) and the results are mind-blowing. In this video, we compare performance across 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 GPUs to see how Cinema 4D and Redshift perform with multiple GPUs. Let’s watch the results and find out which GPU configuration offers the best balance of speed and efficiency!

We’re always happy to help you with any questions. If you have any problems or questions, don’t hesitate to contact our 24/7 support team. Or via Whatsapp: 0912 785 500 for free advice and support.

Right now, iRender has a SPECIAL PROMOTION program with a 100% bonus for the first transaction within 24 hours of your registration. It means that you can get an extra 100% of the money you recharged the first time. And points never expire, so you can use them at any time.

Sign up for an account today to experience and enjoy our services.

Thank you & Happy Rendering!

In this blog, we’ll explore what MPFB 2 is all about — its key features, how to set it up, and why it could be a valuable addition to your rendering and character creation workflow in Blender. 

Let’s discover with iRender!

As we all know, Blender is a popular software in the 3D artist community. Blender is an open-source software developed to support the creation and processing of 3D graphics. 

MPFB stands for MakeHuman Plugin for Blender. This plugin supports the connection between MakeHuman (3D character modeling) and Blender (3D design and rendering software). MPFB helps users easily transfer models from MakeHuman to Blender for editing or animation.

Its features include:

• • • One-click-create a humanoid mesh
    • Parametric modeling of body features
    • Automatic rigging with a choice from several different rigs
    • Support for Rigify
    • Rigging with both IK and FK modes
    • Procedural skin material
    • Procedural eyes material
    • Asset library with support for clothes, body parts and materials

MPFB is developed by the MakeHuman Community, and it is fully compatible with all MakeHuman assets.

MPFB 2 is the latest version of the plugin that connects MakeHuman and Blender. It is completely rewritten compared to the old MPFB to bring a smoother experience. MPFB 2 is not just a tool to “import characters into Blender” but a complete set of tools for creating, editing, and rendering characters right in Blender.

Some highlights of MPFB 2:

• • • Quick Import: It allows you to create characters directly inside Blender without needing to export files from MakeHuman. You can generate a new character with just a few clicks using the “New Human” option in the MPFB interface. If you already have a MakeHuman (.mhm) file, you can open it directly in Blender—no need to export as .obj or .dae.
    • Preserves Rig (Bones): MPFB 2 supports automatic rigging with several options, including Rigify, Blender’s advanced rigging system. You can add a Rigify meta-rig and generate a full rig for your character. The rig supports both IK and FK, along with helpers for hands, feet, eyes, etc.
    • Advanced Materials and Textures: Including procedural materials for skin and eyes, MPFB 2 allows it to generate high-quality shaders compatible with both Eevee and Cycles. This saves a lot of time on material setup and gives realistic render results.
    • Edit Directly in Blender: MPFB 2 lets you edit body shape, clothing, hair, and other character features directly within Blender using parameter controls. Changes are applied in real-time, making it easy to customize your character without going back to MakeHuman.
    • Modular and Extendable: MPFB 2 is designed with a modular, open architecture, making it easy to integrate into larger pipelines or combine with other Blender plugins. It supports asset libraries for clothing, body parts, and materials, and can be extended further via its API.

One important thing to note is that MPFB 2 is compatible with Blender 4.2+. MPFB 2 is still under active development, so if you want access to the latest features (with the fewest bugs), it’s recommended to use the latest Blender version available and always update MPFB 2 from the official GitHub repository, as new releases often include bug fixes and compatibility improvements. If you’re using a Blender version lower than 4.2, MPFB 2 may not function properly or could cause errors.

If you’re looking for a fast and professional solution for creating 3D characters, MPFB 2 (MakeHuman Plugin for Blender) is the perfect tool for you. Here are the key reasons why: 

• • • Create 3D Characters Quickly and Professionally

MPFB 2 allows you to build characters from scratch directly inside Blender, with hundreds of customization options for body shape, face, clothing, and hair. With just a few clicks, you’ll have a fully functional character—no file conversion or external software required.

• • •  Preserve Character Quality When Importing to Blender

No more broken meshes, missing textures, or incorrect rigs when importing. MPFB 2 ensures that every detail—from body proportions to skeleton and materials—is accurately and completely transferred.

• • •  Save Time on Rig and Material Setup

MPFB 2 supports automatic rigging (including Rigify) and comes with high-quality shaders ready for both Eevee and Cycles. There’s no need to spend hours manually setting up rigs or recreating materials—everything is ready for rendering or animation out of the box.

• • •  Clear Workflow, Easy to Edit, and Animation-Ready

You can easily customize body shapes, clothes, hair, and more—all within Blender. Apply dynamic rigs, facial expressions, poses, and animations with ease. Seamlessly integrates with other tools like Auto-Rig Pro, Face Cap, Mixamo, and more.

This is a modern, streamlined, and flexible workflow—perfect for solo artists and professional teams alike.

Once you have a fully-fledged 3D character created using MPFB 2, with a rig and materials ready for animation, then how to render high-quality images or videos quickly?

While Blender is great for modeling and rendering, the reality is that rendering – especially with Cycles – is resource-intensive and can slow down your workflow, especially on low-end machines. And that’s where iRender comes in. 

iRender provides high-configuration servers that increase CPU and GPU rendering speeds. We offer the most powerful RTX 4090 configuration packages on the market, all equipped with AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 3955WX @ 3.9 – 4.2GHz and AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 5975WX @ 3.6 – 4.5GHz processors, 256GB RAM and 2T NVMe SSD hard drive capacity. With a wide range of GPU servers (1/2/4/6/8x) – RTX 4090, you can choose the server that suits your needs to start the rendering process.

Let’s see how fast Blender renders on iRender’s servers with powerful RTX 4090!

In addition, this month, celebrate the Vietnam Reunification Day with a supercharged BONUS for your rendering projects! Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to boost your power and save big!

For more detailed information, please contact us via Live chat 24/7 or WhatsApp: +(84)915875500 or Email: vyvtk@irender.vn

iRender – Happy Rendering!

References: extensions.blender.org, cgchannel.com

Realistic lighting is one of the most critical aspects of creating immersive and visually stunning 3D graphics. Achieving a realistic interplay of light and shadow can distinguish a picture from being genuine in video games, computer-generated imagery (CGI) movies, and architectural visualization. Ambient Occlusion (AO) and Global Illumination (GI) are two crucial methods that support this realism.

In this article, we’ll explore how GI and AO work, their differences, and how they complement each other in 3D rendering. Let’s dive deeper into it with iRender!

A basic lighting approach called Global Illumination replicates how light interacts with real-world things in a digital setting.  In order to produce more lifelike virtual environments, global illumination (GI) enables light to bounce, refract, and diffuse across a scene. 

• • • When light hits a surface, part of it is absorbed while the rest is reflected, illuminating nearby surfaces.
    • This process creates effects like color bleeding (where colors from one object reflect onto another) and soft shadows (caused by indirect lighting).

• Sunlight in a Room: When sunlight enters through a window, it doesn’t just light up the floor directly; it also bounces off walls, furniture, and other surfaces, softly illuminating the entire room.
• Color Reflection on Walls: If you place a red object near a white wall, you might notice a faint red tint on the wall. This happens because light bounces off the red object and carries some of its color.
• Soft Shadows Under a Tree: On a sunny day, the shadows under a tree aren’t completely black. Light bounces off the ground, leaves, and sky, filling in some of the darkness with soft, natural lighting.

• Radiosity: Computes diffuse interreflections by dividing a scene into smaller elements and distributing light energy.
• Photon Mapping: This method simulates the journey of photons (light particles) through a scene. Emitted from light sources, photons bounce around and interact with surfaces.
• Ray Tracing (Path Tracing): Shoots rays from the camera to simulate light bouncing in a realistic way.

Ambient Occlusion (AO) is a shading technique that enhances contrast and depth by darkening areas where ambient light is blocked, such as crevices and object intersections. Unlike GI, AO does not simulate real light behavior but helps create a more realistic perception of depth.

• AO calculates how much ambient light reaches a surface. Areas in tight spaces receive less light and appear darker.
• This effect improves realism by adding subtle shadows in occluded areas.

• Corners of a Room: In a naturally lit room, the corners where two walls meet often appear darker than the middle of the walls because less indirect light reaches these areas.
• Underneath Furniture: The area under a table or sofa is usually darker than the surroundings, even in a well-lit room.
• Folds in Fabric & Clothing: In real life, the creases in a shirt or folds in curtains appear darker because they trap ambient light. AO enhances these small details in character models and fabric simulations.

• Screen Space Ambient Occlusion (SSAO): Uses depth buffer data to approximate AO in real-time.
• Ray-Traced Ambient Occlusion (RTAO): Uses ray tracing for more accurate AO calculations.

• Both of these techniques are used to enhance realism and create the natural feeling of lighting in a 3D scene. Without AO or GI, the scene would look flat and lack depth.
• Both affect shadows. AO helps darken occluded areas to create soft local shadows, and GI allows handling indirect lighting, creating more natural soft shadows.
• Combine them for better effects. AO does not replace GI but can be used as a supplement to enhance contrast.

Although they both improve realism in 3D graphics, Ambient Occlusion (AO) and Global Illumination (GI) have different uses.  By calculating indirect light bounces, GI replicates real-world lighting, producing accurate color bleeding and soft, lifelike shadows.  AO, on the other hand, improves shading by darkening regions like corners and creases where light is obstructed, rather than mimicking real light.  

While AO is lightweight and frequently used in games and lightweight 3D models to provide depth without incurring excessive computational costs, GI’s complexity has a significant performance impact, making it perfect for movies, architectural visualization, and AAA games.

Global Illumination (GI) simulates how light bounces off surfaces, creating soft, natural lighting that reacts dynamically with the environment. This technique enhances realism by capturing the indirect light that illuminates shadowed areas, much like how light behaves in the real world.

On the other hand, Ambient Occlusion (AO) is a shading method that darkens areas where light struggles to reach, such as corners, crevices, and under objects. While it doesn’t simulate light bouncing, AO helps to enhance depth perception by emphasizing soft shadows in occluded areas.

Both Global Illumination and Ambient Occlusion play crucial roles in creating realistic 3D scenes. While GI is essential for simulating light behavior, AO is a valuable addition for enhancing shadows and depth. The combination of both techniques—especially with modern GPU acceleration—allows for highly immersive visuals in games and CGI.

Both Global Illumination (GI) and Ambient Occlusion (AO) play an important role in creating realistic images in 3D graphics. Despite their differences in functionality, these two techniques are often used together to optimize image quality while ensuring performance.

However, calculating GI and AO, especially when using Path Tracing or Ray-Traced AO, requires powerful hardware with high processing performance. This is where iRender becomes an ideal solution. With a powerful GPU system on the cloud computing platform, iRender helps 3D artists, architects and game developers render faster, optimizing time and costs.

Most of the 3D graphics software today support AO and GI, such as Blender, Maya, 3ds Max, Cinema 4D, Unreal Engine… iRender offers the most powerful RTX 4090 configuration packages on the market, all equipped with AMD RyzenTM ThreadripperTM PRO 3955WX @ 3.9 – 4.2GHz and AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 5975WX @ 3.6 – 4.5GHz processors, 256GB RAM and 2TB NVMe SSD storage. With a variety of GPU servers (1/2/4/6/8x) – RTX 4090, you can choose the server that suits your needs to start the rendering process.

Not only powerful configurations, iRender also provides you with more services. NVLink for large scenes that need a lot of VRAM, now available on our 4N – dual RTX 3090 package. Free and convenient transfer tool iRender drive for macOS and Linux users. For Windows users, we recommend the iRender GPU application, you will not need to access our website anymore. The prices at iRender are also very flexible with hourly rental (pay as you use), daily/weekly/monthly rental with 10-20% discount. In addition, you will have 24/7 support from our team who will help you whenever you have problems with the service.

Let’s watch videos we tested with Unreal Engine, Cycles and Redshift on 8S server (6xRTX 4090).

Currently, iRender offers a special promotion for new users, a 100% bonus program for the first deposit within 24 hours of registration. Just register and get our best deal now!

For more detailed information, please contact us via Live chat 24/7 or WhatsApp: +(84)915875500 or Email: vyvtk@irender.vn

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In the world of 3D animation, there are two main techniques for animating characters: Keyframe Animation (manual animation) and Motion Capture (recording real-world movement). Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different types of projects. 

Let’s dive deeper into the comparison with iRender!

A keyframe is a point (one frame) on a video timeline where you tell the video editing software specific properties settings. Some common properties are scale, rotation, opacity and volume. 

Keyframe Animation is a technique where animators manually create movement by placing keyframes at specific points in time. The software then interpolates (fills in) the movement between these keyframes.

Imagine you want a circle to bounce across your screen like a ball. To animate its movement from one point to another, place the first keyframe on your animation timeline at the starting position. Then, add another keyframe later in the timeline at the spot where you want the ball to land.

• • • Full control – Animators can fine-tune every movement to achieve the desired artistic style.
    • Versatile styles – Can create anything from realistic animation to cartoon, anime, or stylized motion.
    •  No expensive equipment needed – Can be done with software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max.
    • Complex Movements: Keyframe animation is suitable for animating complex movements, like having a character perform intricate actions or camera movements with dynamic shots.

• • • Time-consuming – Requires a lot of manual work, especially for complex movements like jumping, running, or combat.
    • Difficult to achieve realistic movement – Even with physics-based tools, achieving true-to-life motion is challenging.

Motion Capture (MoCap) is a technique that records real human movement using sensors or cameras and applies it to 3D characters. It’s widely used in movies like Avatar, Avengers, and The Last of Us.

In film and video games, mocap helps create realistic animations. Sports therapists use it to analyze athletes’ movements and improve their performance. Neuroscientists use it to study how the brain controls movement.

It is also important for testing and improving computer vision and robotics, making sure they work correctly. Overall, Mocap helps us understand and create detailed movement data in various fields.

• • • Highly realistic motion – Captures even the smallest details of human movement. 
    • Faster production – Can generate complex animations much quicker than manual keyframing.
    • Great for large-scale projects – Used in AAA games, films, and VR applications.

• • • Expensive – Requires specialized studios with sensors, MoCap suits, or tracking cameras.
    • Needs post-processing – Raw MoCap data often has errors and needs a cleanup to fit the 3D model.
    • Limited creativity – MoCap captures real movement, making it harder to create exaggerated or stylized animations.

If you want complete control over movements and a unique artistic style, choose Keyframe Animation.
If you need realistic human motion for a large-scale project and have the budget, Motion Capture is the way to go.

Many studios today combine both techniques: they use MoCap as a base for realistic motion and refine it with Keyframe Animation to add more character and polish. Examples include:

• • • The Last of Us used Motion Capture for character performance but required animators to refine the movements to match 3D characters.
    • Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse applied Keyframe Animation to create a unique stylized look, even when working with MoCap data.
    • The Disney+ series, The Mandalorian uses real-time motion capture and Unreal Engine technology to create immersive, virtual environments. These projects show how much you can achieve by seamlessly blending different animation techniques.

There’s no single “best” technique—only the one that fits your project! Keyframe Animation is the way to go if you’re working on a highly artistic animation. If you need realistic human movement and have the budget, MoCap is ideal. Or better yet, combine both techniques for the best results!

While keyframe animation offers unmatched creative flexibility and motion capture delivers realism, both techniques share a common challenge – rendering high-quality animations efficiently. The complexity of modern CGI demands immense computational power, which can slow down production. This is where iRender comes in—a cloud-based GPU rendering service that significantly speeds up the process, allowing animators and studios to focus on creativity without being limited by hardware constraints. 

iRender provides high-configuration servers that increase CPU and GPU rendering speeds. We offer the most powerful RTX 4090 configuration packages on the market, all equipped with AMD RyzenTM ThreadripperTM PRO 3955WX @ 3.9 – 4.2GHz and AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 5975WX @ 3.6 – 4.5GHz processors, 256GB RAM and 2T NVMe SSD hard drive capacity. With a wide range of GPU servers (1/2/4/6/8x) – RTX 4090, you can choose the server that suits your needs to start the rendering process.

Why choose iRender? 

• • • Full Control: Our service will give you full control over your rented servers. Therefore, you are free to create your working environment. 
    • Go Green: We are committed to using 100% solar renewable energy towards environmental sustainability. 
    • Real-human 24/7 Support: Our professional support agents and technicians guarantee to bring you the best rendering experience.

Currently, iRender offers a special promotion for new users, a 100% bonus program for the first deposit within 24 hours of registration. Just register and get our best deal now!

For more detailed information, please contact us via Live chat 24/7 or WhatsApp: +(84)915875500 or Email: vyvtk@irender.vn

iRender – Happy Rendering!

D5 Render has become a powerful tool for creating high-quality architectural animations with real-time rendering capabilities. To elevate your animation workflow, here are some key tips and tricks to enhance realism, efficiency, and visual impact.

Smooth and realistic camera motion is key to engaging animations. Use easing functions to make movements more natural and avoid robotic transitions. Experiment with depth-of-field to add a cinematic feel, guiding the viewer’s focus through your scene. You can consider: 

• • • Set up multiple camera paths to create engaging sequences that highlight architectural features dynamically.
    • Adjust camera parameters such as focal length, exposure, and depth of field to create compelling compositions. 
    • Utilizing the rule of thirds and leading lines can guide the viewer’s eye effectively. 

Keyframes control movement over time, allowing precise adjustments to camera and object animations. When setting keyframes:

• • • Use interpolation methods like linear, bezier, or stepped motion to fine-tune transitions.
    • Adjust movement speed by spacing keyframes strategically.
    • Layer multiple animations for more natural effects, such as camera panning while objects move.

Lighting plays a crucial role in architectural visualization. Use D5’s real-time global illumination to achieve natural lighting effects. For more dramatic scenes, animate light sources such as sunlight transitions and interior lighting changes to create compelling time-of-day sequences. To enhance realism:

• • • Use multiple light sources with varying intensities,  including HDRI maps and artificial lights, to achieve the desired ambiance. 
    • Adjust exposure settings dynamically for smooth light transitions.
    • Add animated light flickering for realism in artificial lights.
    • Adjusting light intensity and color temperature can significantly impact the mood of your render.

To bring life to your scenes, integrate animated elements such as people walking, cars moving, or trees swaying. D5 Render supports animated models, allowing for realistic urban environments that feel dynamic and immersive. Incorporate animations like moving vehicles, swaying trees, or flowing water to bring life to your scenes. Consider:

• • • Using motion paths for vehicles and people.
    • Adjusting playback speed for realistic movement.
    • Layering animations to avoid repetitive patterns.

A great way to add storytelling elements is by simulating time-lapse animations. By adjusting the sun path and sky settings, you can showcase a project transitioning from day to night, highlighting the architecture’s interaction with different lighting conditions. Other environmental animations include:

• • • Wind effects on vegetation using physics-based animations.
    • Water movement and reflections for realistic bodies of water.
    • Fog and volumetric lighting to add atmospheric depth.

Applying depth-of-field, motion blur, and filmic color grading can elevate the realism of your animations. D5 Render offers these post-processing effects to fine-tune the final look and feel of your animation. Consider:

• • • Adjusting aperture and focus distance for depth-of-field effects.
    • Using motion blur on fast-moving objects for smooth transitions.
    • Applying LUTs (Look-Up Tables) for consistent color grading.

Before finalizing your animation, ensure all elements are optimized for smooth playback. Adjust rendering settings to balance quality and performance. When exporting:

• • • Choose the appropriate resolution and frame rate (30 or 60 FPS for smoother animations).
    • Optimize texture and geometry to reduce rendering time.
    • Test preview renders to identify any visual inconsistencies before finalizing.

By implementing these tips and tricks, you can maximize the potential of D5 Render for creating professional-grade animations. Whether you’re working on an architectural walkthrough or a cinematic sequence, mastering these techniques will enhance the overall impact of your visual storytelling.

If you’re looking for a high-performance rendering service powered by the RTX 4090, iRender is an excellent choice. iRender offers a powerful and customizable server system for 3D rendering, AI training, VR & AR, simulation, and more. We understand that design and creative work are deeply personal, and only you, as the artist, truly know what you want to achieve with your animation. 

The workflow is really simple. You just need to install D5 Render and activate your license once. After that, whenever you connect, your setup will be ready for use, allowing you to render or modify your projects seamlessly. Especially, your working will be the same for the next session, you do not need to install your software again.

The best suitable package for D5 Render is our 3S server with a strong RTX 4090, which will boost up your rendering performance.

This month, we have a huge promotion with a longer period, you can consider below.

 Just register and get our best deal now!

For more detailed information, please contact us via Live chat 24/7 or WhatsApp: +(84)915875500 or Email: vyvtk@irender.vn

iRender – Happy rendering!

Reference: cgtips.org

Godot 4.4 brings a host of new features designed to enhance the workflow and creativity of CG artists. Whether you’re working on game environments, animations, or interactive visuals, these updates make Godot an even more powerful tool. Let’s look at the top five features that make this release stand out. 

Let’s explore new updates in this latest version with iRender!

One of the most notable improvements in Godot 4.4 is the ability to run and interact with your game directly within the editor. 

This design choice previously prevented embedding the game window into the editor. This is something that users with limited screen space, like on single-monitor setups or laptops, are looking for.

Thanks to some window management tricks, it is now possible to embed the game seamlessly and interact with the rest of the editor, while still keeping the processes separate in the background.

Note that this only works on Linux, Windows, and Android for now. Support for macOS will require a different approach for technical reasons. 

There are also many other nice quality-of-life updates to the Editor, including the option to snap 3D objects to one another while placing them in a level, to preview camera views directly in the Inspector, and a built-in material preview in the visual shader editor.

The updates to LightmapGI improve the quality and performance of rendered shadows, making scenes look more realistic and visually appealing.

The change makes it possible to use static shadows at a distance from the view camera, but dynamic shadows up close, improving performance without sacrificing realism.

LightmapGI also now supports bicubic sampling, resulting in smoother-looking baked shadows at a small performance cost, and supports baking tinted shadows from transparent objects.

This new tone-mapping option provides a cinematic, movie-like look to rendered images, enhancing the overall visual quality.

The Godot implementation resembles theirs closely but is purposely simplified to be more suitable for real-time use cases.

AgX gives a movie-esque quality to renders and can handle very bright scenes better than other available options.

The Jolt physics engine is now integrated directly into Godot, removing the need for an external extension. This streamlines the workflow and provides robust physics simulation capabilities.

While still in an experimental phase, Jolt promises more robust and efficient physics simulations, paving the way for even more realistic interactions in future updates. 

However, the Jolt extension is now in maintenance mode and will be deprecated once the native Jolt physics system reaches feature parity.

For animators, Godot 4.4 introduces several key features to improve character motion and dynamic effects:

• • • LookAtModifier3D: A new constraint system that simplifies look-at mechanics.
    • VRMSpringBone Integration: Provides more natural jiggle physics for hair, clothing, and other soft-body elements.
    • Animation Markers: Artists can now define subregions within animations to enable seamless looping or jumping between segments, offering greater flexibility and control.

iRender provides high-configuration servers that increase CPU and GPU rendering speeds. We offer the most powerful RTX 4090 configuration packages on the market, all equipped with AMD RyzenTM ThreadripperTM PRO 3955WX @ 3.9 – 4.2GHz and AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 5975WX @ 3.6 – 4.5GHz processors, 256GB RAM and 2T NVMe SSD hard drive capacity. With a wide range of GPU servers (1/2/4/6/8x) – RTX 4090, you can choose the server that suits your needs to start the rendering process. Whether you’re creating stunning visuals, optimizing physics simulations, or handling heavy AI computations, iRender offers a seamless and scalable solution to boost your Godot development workflow.

Why choose iRender? 

• • • Full Control: Our service will give you full control over your rented servers. Therefore, you are free to create your working environment. 
    • Go Green: We are committed to using 100% solar renewable energy towards environmental sustainability. 
    • Real-human 24/7 Support: Our professional support agents and technicians guarantee to bring you the best rendering experience.

Let’s watch the video below to understand our workflow more easily. 

For Windows:

For MacOS:

Currently, iRender offers a special promotion for new users, a 100% bonus program for the first deposit within 24 hours of registration, making it an attractive option for those looking to optimize their rendering budget.

For more detailed information, please contact us via Live chat 24/7 or WhatsApp: +(84)915875500 or Email: vyvtk@irender.vn

iRender – Happy rendering!

References & image sources:  godotengine.org & cgchannel.com

Welcome to our blog, where we explore the fascinating world of digital graphics and the technologies that bring virtual creations to life. In this post, we will delve into the concept of Physically Based Rendering (PBR), a technique that has revolutionized the digital graphics industry. 

As we navigate through the intricacies of PBR, we will uncover its significance and how it has become a cornerstone in the creation of realistic and visually stunning digital content. Join us as we embark on this journey to understand the impact of PBR in today’s digital graphics landscape, and discover why it is a game-changer for artists and developers alike.

Physically Based Rendering (PBR) is a set of methods to make 3D objects rendered from computers more realistic. It employs algorithms based on physically accurate formulas to replicate real-world materials, resulting in cohesive and photorealistic environments. Thanks to PBR, today we can see that the effects in games look no different from reality.  

Physically based shading is paramount in PBR, as it encompasses simulating light interaction with surfaces to achieve realistic material rendering. By utilizing various shaders, including vertex and fragment shaders, PBR aims to accurately replicate the intricate behavior of the light ray and the surfaces around it, thus enhancing the visual fidelity and authenticity of rendered materials. 

These shaders play a crucial role in calculating the reflection, refraction, and absorption of different wavelengths of incoming light, including reflected light. This contributes to the immersive and lifelike portrayal of materials within PBR-rendered scenes.

When light hits a surface boundary some of it will reflect – that is, bounce off – from the surface and leave heading in a direction on the opposing side of the surface normal. This behavior is very similar to a ball thrown against the ground or a wall – it will bounce off at the opposite angle.

One of PBR key components is reflection, which characterizes how materials reflect light sources. It governs the reflective surface behavior, dictating how light interacts with materials to produce realistic highlights, specular reflections, and refracted light, adding depth and authenticity to rendered visuals.

In specular reflection, when light hits really smooth surfaces, we can easily understand how it behaves using two models: physical optics and geometric optics. These surfaces reflect and transmit light perfectly, meaning all the light goes in one direction. When light reflects off these surfaces, it bounces off in a way that the angle it makes with the surface is the same as the angle it came in.

In some cases diffusion is more complicated – in materials that have wider scattering distances for example, like skin or wax. In these cases a simple color will usually not do, and the shading system must take into account the shape and thickness of the object being lit. If they are thin enough, such objects often see light scattering out the back side and can then be called translucent. 

If the diffusion is even lower yet (in for example, glass) then almost no scattering is evident at all and entire images can pass through an object from one side to another intact. These behaviors are different enough from the typical “close to the surface” diffusion that unique shaders are usually needed to simulate them.

Maintaining energy conservation is a crucial component of physically-based shading. It enables artists to manipulate reflectivity and albedo values for materials without unintentionally defying physical laws, which usually results in unappealing visuals. Although it’s not strictly essential to enforce these constraints in code to create visually pleasing art, but it ensures artwork remains consistent and doesn’t overly stretch the rules under varying lighting conditions.

Electrically conductive materials, especially metals, deserve special mention for several reasons. 

Firstly, they are significantly more reflective than insulators, with reflectivities of 60-90%, giving metals their characteristic shiny appearance. Insulators, on the other hand, typically have reflectivities in the range of 0-20%. 

Secondly, the reflectivity of conductors can vary across the visible spectrum, causing their reflections to appear tinted. This phenomenon, though rare, can be observed in materials like gold, copper, and brass. Insulators generally do not exhibit this effect, and their reflections remain uncolored. 

Lastly, electrical conductors tend to absorb rather than scatter light that penetrates their surface, resulting in minimal diffuse light. However, surface oxides or residues on metals can scatter small amounts of light. This unique behavior of metals has led some rendering systems to adopt “metalness” as a direct input, allowing artists to specify the degree to which a material behaves like a metal, simplifying the creation of realistic materials.

The Fresnel effect, named after French physicist Augustin-Jean Fresnel, describes how light reflects off surfaces at varying angles. When light strikes a surface at a shallow angle (grazing angle), more light is reflected, making the surface appear shinier. Conversely, when light hits a surface at a steeper angle (closer to perpendicular), less light is reflected, resulting in a duller appearance. 

This phenomenon is particularly significant in fields such as optics, computer graphics, and photography, as it helps create realistic renderings of materials like water, glass, and metal. By understanding and applying the Fresnel effect, artists and scientists can achieve a more accurate representation of how light interacts with different surfaces.

• Physically based rendering (PBR) presents a host of benefits, including generated photorealistic images, intricate textures, and realistic lighting, elevating the quality and visual fidelity of rendered scenes.

• PBR enables the creation of visuals that closely resemble their real-life counterparts, contributing to a heightened level of immersion and authenticity. The utilization of visible light rays and surface normal in PBR contributes to the accurate simulation of real-world lighting effects.
• PBR facilitates a sustainable workflow, fostering the consistent creation of artwork while streamlining production processes, ultimately reducing production time and enhancing efficiency. 
• This includes the accurate simulation of final light reflected and scattered on various surfaces, such as smooth and rough surfaces that interact with diffuse light realistically.

Physically Based Rendering (PBR) has significantly influenced various sectors, including architectural visualization, video games, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), film and animation, as well as product design and advertising. 

• Architectural visualization: PBR plays a crucial role in creating realistic visualizations of architectural designs and environments.
• Video games: PBR techniques are widely used in the gaming industry to achieve realistic and immersive visuals.
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): PBR contributes to the realism of visual experiences in VR and AR applications.
• Film and animation: In the film and animation industry, PBR is employed to produce highly realistic special effects and computer-generated imagery (CGI). It allows for seamless integration of CGI with live-action footage, making fantastical scenes appear believable. 
• Product design and advertising: PBR is utilized to create realistic product visualizations and compelling advertising materials.

In physically based rendering (PBR), achieving photo-realistic images demands immense computational power and advanced graphics hardware. Enter iRender, a cutting-edge cloud rendering platform that empowers artists and designers by providing access to high-performance GPU servers. With iRender, users can harness the power of top-tier NVIDIA GPUs, enabling them to render complex scenes with unparalleled speed and precision. This seamless integration of PBR with iRender’s robust infrastructure not only accelerates the rendering process but also ensures that every intricate detail is captured with stunning realism.

iRender provides high-configuration servers that increase CPU and GPU rendering speeds. We offer the most powerful RTX 4090 configuration packages on the market, all equipped with AMD RyzenTM ThreadripperTM PRO 3955WX @ 3.9 – 4.2GHz and AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 5975WX @ 3.6 – 4.5GHz processors, 256GB RAM and 2T NVMe SSD hard drive capacity. With a wide range of GPU servers (1/2/4/6/8x) – RTX 4090, you can choose the server that suits your needs to start the rendering process. 

Currently, iRender offers a special promotion for new users, a 100% bonus program for the first deposit within 24 hours of registration. Just register and get our best deal now!

For more detailed information, please contact us via Live chat 24/7 or WhatsApp: +(84)915875500 or Email: vyvtk@irender.vn

iRender – Happy rendering!

Reference: chaos.com, marmoset.co