Ray tracing rendering software

See how ray tracing software from Autodesk makes it easier and faster to render complex scenes and photorealistic characters.

Image courtesy of Marco Di Lucca

Image courtesy of Tsubasa Nakai

What is ray tracing?

Ray tracing is a rendering technique that delivers a realistic simulation of light, such as reflections, translucency, and shadows. It brings an extra level of realism to 3D computer graphics and VFX in film, TV, and games.

Image courtesy of Lee Griggs

Using the Media & Entertainment Collection for ray tracing

As a rendering technique, ray tracing makes it easier and more efficient to model light in detail to heighten realism in game environments and VFX. Ray tracing, included in several products in Autodesk’s Media & Entertainment Collection, allows for efficient and high-quality rendering even in complex scenes.

Image courtesy of Yuriy Dulich

Ray Tracing with Arnold

Arnold renderer, included in the M&E Collection and the default renderer for both 3ds Max and Maya, is built for the demands of feature-length animation and visual effects. It delivers enhanced levels of interactivity and performance, a simple and intuitive UI, and the efficiency of batch rendering.

How is ray tracing software used?

Creating photoreal CG characters

Transferring an image from the mind to the screen is arguably the hardest part of being a digital artist. Artist Aviral Agarwal walks through his technique for creating realistic portraits.

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Image courtesy of Aviral Agarwal

Creating an underwater dystopia

The team behind award-winning short film "The Beauty" breaks down their process for creating a convincing underwater world integrated with plastic waste.

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Image courtesy of The Beauty Team

Computer-generated art with a mission

The medical illustration team at the CDC delivers a range of visual communications that bring microscopic entities to life in the interest of public health.

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Image courtesy of the CDC

Relevant software in the collection for ray tracing rendering

Arnold

Global illumination rendering software

Product details
Maya

3D animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering software for film, games, and TV

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3ds Max

3D modeling, animation, and rendering software for games and design visualization

Product details

Ray tracing frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is ray tracing?

Ray tracing captures the effect of light and applies it to computer-generated images to create photorealistic visuals. Ray tracing is used in video game production, VFX, and animation.

How is ray tracing integrated into the Media & Entertainment Collection?

Each Media & Entertainment Collection subscription includes Arnold, the advanced Monte Carlo ray tracing renderer. The collection includes five Arnold licenses for the utmost in batch rendering power.

Can I use the Media & Entertainment Collection to add ray tracing to existing projects?

Because the Media & Entertainment Collection includes Arnold software, you can render high-quality images in your tool of choice. Arnold seamlessly integrates with Maya, Houdini, Cinema 4D, 3ds Max, and Katana, so you can easily add ray tracing capabilities to your workflow.