Using hyper-realistic graphics for gaming scenes makes your game stand out. You may have heard of HDRIs, which are photographs of real-world environments that developers use in their games.
This article will introduce you to HDRIs, explain what HDRIs are, and review how developers use HDRIs in their projects. You will also be introduced to a free HDRI marketplace called HDRI Haven where you can access free HDRI environments and maps.
What is an HDRI?
HDRI which stands for High Dynamic Range Imaging is a digital technique used in 3D computer graphics.
It is used to reproduce digital images with a greater dynamic range of luminosity. The luminosity can range from the brightest illuminations to the darkest shade, making images look more natural. The images produced with HDRI are more realistic compared to traditional imaging techniques.
Why is this so?
In traditional imaging, there is a limited range of exposure. While with HDRI, there is a broader range of exposure. This is achieved with the use of specialized cameras. These specialized cameras are capable of capturing a wide range of exposure. Therefore, HDRI is highly recommended for rendering realistic real-world scenes, because in real-world scenes, there is a wide range of luminosity.
Check out this resource for better understanding. You can also check this out too.
Common use cases of HDRI
HDRIs are extremely useful in various fields due to its ability to capture a wide range of exposure levels. Here are some of the common use cases;
- 3D computer graphics:
HDRIs are extensively used for 3D graphics, animations, and other forms of visual effects. This is because it captures an accurate representation of real-world realistic scenes, including detailed lighting conditions. One popular use case is in CGI scenes in movies and video games. - 3D Architectural Visualization:
Using HDRIs is now a common practice in 3D architectural designs. It allows the rendering of photorealistic designs of buildings and interiors. With HDRIs, clients can effectively view architectural designs with minute details well represented due to how the HDRI is used to bounce light in realistic ways. - Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR):
As AR and VR are beginning to gain ground, HDRI has played a huge role in its development. It is used extensively in the production of immersive environments, enhancing user experience.
Overall, HDRIs are used over a wide range of applications as it’s far better than the traditional imaging technique.
Now that you understand what HDRIs are and how they are used, we’ll talk briefly about a site where you can get access to creative and high-quality HDRI environments and maps for free: HDRI Haven. In my opinion, HDRI Haven is the best site for high-quality HDRIs.
HDRI Haven
Are you looking for high-quality HDRIs for free for your game projects? Then, HDRI Haven is your go-to site. On HDRI Haven, you have exclusive access to hundreds of 100% free high-quality HDRIs. All you need to do is visit HDRI Haven, search for the HDRI of your choice, download it, and use it as you like. The images are under a CC0 license and can be downloaded anonymously, with no restrictions whatsoever.
On HDRI Haven, you have access to different HDRI environment options; Outdoor, Skies, Indoor, Studio, Sunrise/Sunset, Night, Nature, and Urban.
Conclusion
Using HDRIs can add depth and detail to your sky and to objects in your scenes. Although HDRIs are detailed and realistic, they are still static images. As a result, HDRIs are poorly suited for games with dynamic time of day systems.
Use your judgment to understand when to use HDRIs, Procedural Skyboxes, or other techniques to render your sky domes.
