Problem

Visualize provides the capability to create images with real-life pictures as Backgrounds with Shadows for more realistic results. However, sometimes a White Background with no shadows is desired. This article goes over the steps needed to make the Background White with no Shadows.

Solution

We will be going through the process of importing a file from SOLIDWORKS and changing the background to white by understanding the options from the environment and/or backplates in the Scenes tab. Before we start, keep in mind that the backplate trumps the background coming from the environment. This is related to why Step 12 needs to be done.

1. Open SOLIDWORKS Visualize
2. Import a SOLIDWORKS assembly or part file using File > Open

3. In the Import Settings dialog window, the item that will influence the environment and the backplate is Scene. In this example, we will make sure Scene and the items within are all checked to import this data from the SOLIDWORKS file.

   

4. After importing is done, we can see that in the Scenes tab, the environment is set to "3 Point Faded", and the backplate is set to "3 Point Faded Backplate".

   

   Note: Without the Scenes being checked during the import process, by default, Visualize would use the "Studio Soft Grey 12" backplate and "High Contrast Ramp" environment.

5. Currently, with the environment and backplate applied, the resulting render would look like this.

   

6. To make the background white, there are two ways to do so. We will go over how to do it with the backplate first.
7. Using Paint or downloading an image online, save a completely white image where it can be easily accessed.

8. In Visualize, Right-click on an empty space where the environments and backplates are listed and select "New Backplate..."

   

9. Browse to the white background file, select it, and click "Open"

   

10. The model now has a white background

    

11. The shadows are still noticeable. Before we get rid of the shadows, let us explore the other way of making the background completely white, through the environment itself.

12. Click on the backplate that is currently active, which would be white only in this example, and uncheck the "Visible" property

    

13. Click on the environment that is currently active. In this example, "3 Pointed Faded". In its properties on the right, use the dropdown menu for Background Type to change it to Color.

    

14. The "Background Color" will now appear, and we can click on the color to change it to White

    

15. Lastly, if we want to get rid of the shadows, click on the active environment again and go to its Advanced tab. In the Ground Shadow Catcher section, uncheck "Enable".

    

16. The model now has a white background without shadows

For additional support, existing customers can submit a ticket or new customers can contact Hawk Ridge Systems.