Background RE?

[Booska]

Hi all! I'm brand new here and just started a V-Ray 3 trial. I have a pretty simple question. What does the Background render element do, and how do you use it? I haven't been able to find much info on it... Thanks!

[NicoC]

Hello,

Well, nothing fancy here, Background RE basically output the background image ... just test it: apply some bg image, render, then you'll get your bg image separated as RE.

[Booska]

Thanks, NicoC. I understand what it's supposed to do, but how does V-Ray know which image is being used as a background? There is no way to connect a particular image to the RE, unlike meshes to the MultiMatte or lights to the LightSelect.

I know it's a goofy question, but I can't find an answer anywhere.

[theedge]

It uses the map that you define as a background in the Environment and Effects window

[NicoC]

Well, it outputs the background as defined as background in 3dsmax (Environment and Effects floater, Common Parameters tab, Common Parameters tab), which can be a bitmap, a procedural map or a color ... I mean, a background is a background

[Svetlozar Draganov]

V-Ray Background RE uses the image or color plugged into Environment Map slot of 3DSmax:

[Booska]

Aha! Of course! That makes sense. Thanks everyone for the info!