Clay Render
Model shown in plain matte gray
Also known as: Clay shader · Clay material · Gray render · Clay pass · Sculpt render
Definition
A clay render shows a 3D model in a single plain, matte gray material, with no textures or colors, so the form can be judged on its own. Light and shadow show the shapes, proportions and silhouette, which makes it the standard way to review a sculpt, a blockout or an environment before texturing. Many portfolios show the clay render next to the textured result to prove the quality of the modeling.
In production
Use a light gray, rough material, soft lighting with an HDRI or three-point setup, and ambient occlusion to show depth. Check the model from several angles and at the distance it will be seen. Environment artists often keep a clay version of the whole scene to check composition and lighting before adding materials. ZBrush's MatCaps and Blender's Workbench render give quick clay looks.
Tools that use Clay Render
See also
MatCap
Lit-sphere material that needs no lights
Turntable Render
Rotating presentation of an asset
Three-Point Lighting
Key, fill and rim light setup
Silhouette
The readable outline of a shape
Blockout
Rough mass + scale placeholder
Ambient Occlusion
Soft contact shadows
Value Structure
Planning lights and darks before color
Paintover
Painting on top of a 3D render or sketch
Portfolio Breakdown
The process shots that prove how a piece was made