Master Lighting in Blender: A Step-by-Step Guide to Light Linking and Shadow Linking
01. Setting renders to cycle
In the Render rollout of the Properties panel, specify your render engine as Cycles. If you try and find the feature when using EEVEE, you’ll be sorely disappointed because the options don’t even appear in the interface.
02. Creating your collections
As Light and Shadow Linking operate using collections, we must set these up first. Collections are created by right-clicking in the Outliner and selecting New Collection, with individual objects then able to be dragged into them. Using collections is a good way of keeping your scene organized as well. It’s also possible to create new collections when adding objects into the Light Linking lists.
03. Adding items to Light Linking list
With your light selected, go to the Object panel in properties and scroll to the Shading rollout. In Light Linking you can now drag your collections from the Outliner into the list. Any items in the list will be included. Use the checkbox next to each item to exclude them. Adding collections or objects to the Light Linking list enables Blender to know how to treat them in relation to the given light.
04. Placing items on Shadow Linking list
The exact same process applies for adding collections to the Shadow Linking list. You can also click on the ‘New Light Linking Collection’ button and then drag objects from the Outliner into the list, which will then automatically be added to that collection. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter which of these processes you use, as the final results will be the same.
Conclusion
Light Linking and Shadow Linking are powerful features in Blender that allow you to control which objects in your scene are affected by which lights, giving you a high level of customization and control over your renders. By following these steps, you can master the process of using these features to achieve the desired look and feel for your 3D models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Light Linking and Shadow Linking in Blender?
A: Light Linking and Shadow Linking are features in Blender that allow you to control which objects in your scene are affected by which lights, giving you a high level of customization and control over your renders.
Q: How do I enable Light Linking and Shadow Linking in Blender?
A: To enable Light Linking and Shadow Linking, first make sure you are using the Cycles render engine, then create collections in the Outliner, and add objects to the Light Linking and Shadow Linking lists.
Q: Can I use both Light Linking and Shadow Linking together?
A: Yes, you can use both Light Linking and Shadow Linking together to achieve the desired look and feel for your 3D models.
