Chronicles of a Metaversian: December 2012

Sunday, December 23, 2012

I know, it has been a very long time since I’ve blogged here… perhaps this post marks a revival of sorts - only time will tell.

A while back I worked with and even made a brief demonstration machinima video of my explorations in using the Lighting and Shadows settings.

I have been playing again with what I call shadow projections. I am taking advantage of the ability place images and choose color when working with Light in the build menu. Since some have asked…

Specifically: Build>Features tab> check box “Light”

Choose color and image in the two windows to the right of the check box. These operate just like image and color windows in the Texture tab.
I recommend thinking of the image as a stencil.
The surface must be a color other than pure black, the lighter the grey the brighter the image.

But wait, I can’t see anything? Apparently it is only possible to see the effects if you can operate with the “Lighting and Shadows” box checked in the advanced graphics settings.

Specifically: Preferences>Graphics>General Tab> select check box “Lighting and Shadows”.

This path is specific to the current Firestorm viewer.
However, any viewer that allows you access via preferences to advanced graphics setting (beyond simply choosing Low to Ultra render quality) should work. Look for a setting allowing you to activate Lighting and Shadows.

Once settings are good, and your viewer is also set to Nighttime then have a look around.

If you find this is difficult on your machine or the sim is lagging (it is mainland after all), then park your avatar and view via fly camera mode, etc.
The Sphere is entered from above… sit on the glowing cubes and observe the rotating images.
The Cube is entered by simply walking into the inner cube (the cubes are phantom).

Unfortunately, it is close quarters in the cube... again fly camera mode may be best for viewing here.

Along the viewing screen at the East Edge of the platform are some “projectors” casting images onto a wall. Here I am experimenting with how to shape, focus and point the images at objects.

Please note all pieces are still works in progress.

Also note, the figures in orange & yellow colors are unrelated to the shadow projector projects… just another unfinished work.

For those that want to see in Second Life here is the link to Anzac.

Here are some sample images of the type of lighting effects I'm getting. Not revolutionary and likely old hat to some, but I'm enjoying exploring the possibilities. I hope you enjoy as well.