Light Distribution Methods


Photometric lights can be customized to distribute light using one of the methods below. I have also included the symbols from the 3ds max Reference for easier identification. In italics are the types of photometric lights that can utilize each method.


Isotropic Distribution:

This method distributes light equally in all directions. (Point)


Spotlight Distribution:

Amazingly enough, this method acts suspiciously like a spotlight. Its angles, the beam angle and the field angle, can be compared to a standard light's hotspot angle and falloff angle, respectively. (Point)


Web Distribution:

Web distribution uses a 3D representation of the light intensity distribution of a light source read from a file. These profiles of real lights are often made available by manufacturers. (Point, Linear, Area)


Diffuse Distribution

Diffuse emits light from a surface based on its refraction angle. Light that leaves at a right angle is the most intense, and intensity diminishes as angles become more acute. (Linear, Area)


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