Preface

SketchUp 2014 for Architectural Visualization Second Edition shows you how to master SketchUp's unique tools to create architectural visuals using professional rendering and image editing techniques in a clear and friendly way. You will be able to get started immediately using SketchUp 2014 (Pro or Maker), professional rendering, and image processing software.

The book shows you how to create watercolor and pencil-style sketchy visuals. You will also create composites of real and rendered images, creating digital and paper presentations to wow clients. If you are impatient, you will find a "quickstart" tutorial in the first chapter to get you rendering a photorealistic scene immediately. The rest of the book builds on this knowledge by introducing you gradually to in-depth concepts, tricks, and insights in an easy-to-follow format through quick tutorials.

Using easy step-by-step explanations, this book opens the door to the world of architectural visualization. With no prior visualization experience, you will quickly get to grips with materials, texturing, composition, photo-compositing, lighting setup, rendering, and postprocessing. You will be able to take SketchUp's "sketchy" output and add the artistic touch to create pencil and watercolor scenes.