For newcomers to creating 3D scenes, the render output may not be what you’re expecting. Mike Griggs explains how to use the camera object to remedy this.

The most confusing aspect when starting with 3D modelling software is that your first rendered scene won’t match what’s in the viewport. This is because, nine times out of ten, the application will default to rendering from a different view than the one you’re seeing.

A 3D application is an empty void where you can create anything. A camera object captures what you want, just like a real camera. Defining this camera – its type, lens and exposure speed – within your software allows for authentic, realistic scenes without expensive kit.

Camera objects work like real cameras: adjusting the focal length changes how an object appears in the scene. Wide-angle lenses distort; telephoto lenses make things look more realistic or diagrammatic when pushed to extremes.

Remember, the camera is just another 3D object that you can position and rotate. It’s critical to understand the difference between a camera view and a viewport view in your application.