School WIP and some questions

Hi all. Here’s a project I’m working on. It’s still very early. I just dumped in and started materials. It will be photoshoped onto a background. Any comments welcome.

Questions:

1. Until I get 1.5, I have to use 1.46.15 because I use Viz07, and the whole maps issue previously discussed, SO, What’s the best sun/sky setup in 1.46, or should I just wait for 1.5? Depending on how long that is, I don’t know if I can hold this job off til then… This image is using VrayHDRI for illumination in env. slot, and a spot for directional/sharper shadows. I’ve used the dome light before, but it doesn’t seem to cast sharp shadows.

2. See the second image. Anyone know of a good Arch mat? Or where to buy? I haven’t had any luck finding any. Or any ideas on how to get the arch right? thanks.

1. I think if you get your shadows a little darker (lower your hdri multiplier) it will be spot on. In the real world, brick colors wash out pretty bad in direct sun. If you composite into a bright scene, it should look pretty good. IMHO.

2. See this thread: http://www.chaosgroup.com/forum/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=15724