Rendering ceilings

[charliep]

Whenever I render an internal scene the ceiling comes out a dirty gray. I've tried various radiosity settings without success. Any tips apart from going to 3D Max or whatever?

[SCShell]

Hey there,

Here are a few ideas which may help you:

1. Create a new GWB or other ceiling which has the material settings set to "glow".
2. Add some 'up lighting' to light up the ceiling via wall sconces or other type light.
3. Add a "Studio Light" just outside of the camera's view so it throws light into the room.

But, you may want to be careful with these ideas. You don't want to use too many "work arounds" and give a client a false impression regarding lighting. I like to go at it with the 'real approach' so that the project looks as good, if not better, than the rendering.
But, that being said, most ceilings do get indirect lighting normally, so these ideas are not too bad.

Good Luck
Steve