Sketch-FX Ex is a render function for SketchUp. It is a separate product from Sketch-FX. Sketch-FX Ex works the same way except that it is integrated directly into the SketchUp interface. From bloom effects to color correction, it enhances your 3D creations. Using SketchUp, you can quickly illustrate your models. One-click accomplishes all these tasks using predefined presets.
Workflow of Sketch-FX EX
So, let’s get down to business with Sketch-FX EX. The interface is similar to Photoshop, as was mentioned earlier. Stacks and blends of effects apply to each other. The Effects can mix in a variety of ways. Although it seems convoluted at first, you quickly become accustomed to its operation after spending a few minutes reverse-engineering the default setup.
In a nutshell, the effect stack is composed of four parameters. There is a Bloom filter, Blur filter, Vignette filter, Paint filter, and Depth of Field filter for enhancing images. The use of external images or scenes and SketchUp Styles allows you to layer images. The layered effects can also target a variety of masks.
The previous effect can have some parent-child relationships. A specific effect can apply to specific properties with this method. Rather than blurring the whole scene, you can set SketchUp Line Style to overlay over another effect.
When experimenting, it is common to have many happy accidents due to micromanagement of effects. It is common to tweak the properties of every effect. The blend mode and opacity of the image can also adjust. Sketch-FX Ex should be second nature to you if you are comfortable with layers and adjustments in Photo-Shop.
Overlaying SketchUp Styles, external images, and other scenes is one of the best features of Sketch-FX Ex. You can only go so far with blur, bloom, and contrast. But you can also use image overlays to create something unique.
User Interface of Sketch-FX EX
Sketch-FX has many toggles, sliders, and dropdowns as the User Interface is not the most approachable feature. All options do the same thing. Although the sheer number of options makes creating illustrations more labor-intensive, you can save your creations for future use.
In short, Sketch-FX Ex should have been Style-Builder for SketchUp. Boost your presentations’ images with this stand-alone application. Although it isn’t for beginners, it could save you lots of time if you use Photo-Shop for beautifying SketchUp outputs.
Why you use Sketch-FX EX?
It can be a winning formula when handled correctly. It gets exceptional results out of the box even with the default presets. If you are new to image editing, you will need to learn a lot. A rendering time is directly linked to the number and complexity of the effects applied to a scene. The most effect-heavy presets can take up to 10 seconds on a standard machine.
Advantage of Sketch-FX EX
- Cost-effective.
- Presets are impressive.
- High Extensibility.
- Output in a timely manner.
- Integration is good.
Dis-advantage of Sketch-FX EX
- Documentation is inadequate.
- There is a heavy emphasis on options.
- User interface that is difficult to use.
Final Thoughts
Sketch-FX Ex hits the sweet spot between the SketchUp style and the photorealistic look. That is a professional marketing tool for professionals.
A very robust illustration tool, Sketch-FX Ex is an ideal companion to SketchUp. The default presets can produce impressive results. Sketch-FX is more rewarding if you invest some time in it.
