Lighting Workflow and Process

”The Window” Work In Progress Piece Using Maya and Arnold

Initial Sketch and Inspiration

I begin by sketching a rough layout to explore composition and framing. After that, I collect reference images to ground the scene and guide design decisions. Using these references, I create a simple blockout, where I scale, place, and structure the scene before moving on.

Lighting, Texturing, and Blocking

I begin with an initial texture and lighting pass to get a sense of how the scene is coming together, focusing on the overall blocking. Once the scene feels cohesive, I do a second lighting pass to push closer to my references and target mood.

During this stage, I continue adjusting textures and look development as needed, building the scene starting with large, blocky value groups.

When the textures are in a solid place, I focus on refining the lighting by shaping forms, balancing color temperature, values, and saturation, and using light and dark contrast to help the character stand out.

I share progress shots with other professionals and peers to get feedback and fresh perspectives, alongside doing my own rounds of self-critique.

I iterate on the piece based on the notes I get until it feels cohesive. While this piece isn’t fully finished, it’s meant to give a peek into my thought process and how I approach lighting a shot.