Menu : SCENE

Command: Define:Backg Type

Shortcut : None

Determines the background type for shaded and ExTrace images. There are three possibilities:

  • Sliding color - This option makes the background color more interesting by varying the shade from dark to light.
  • Texture - A picture is drawn as the background. The user is asked for the name of the file. Shadows will not fall on the background picture, nor will light points affect it.

If the scene and background pictures are of different proportions then a part of the background picture is automatically clipped away.

Note that the ExTrace program allows for a further alternative. Multiple colors can be placed in the background with the command EXTRACEÞLocate:Backg Colors. This feature is not available for rendered images.

Another parameter available in this dialog box is Environment map. This is extremely useful for highly reflective images such as gold and silver. If environment is turned on you will be asked to choose and image file from a scrollable list. The texture image is wrapped all around the scene. The image is not shown in the background but mirroring materials reflect it.