The best way to light a furniture 3D model combines soft, directional key lighting to highlight texture with balanced fill and accent lights to define shape without harsh shadows.
- **Mimic real-world conditions**: Use soft key light (like daylight through a window) to show details (e.g., wood grain, fabric weave), fill light to soften contrasts, and accents (e.g., hardware spotlights) to emphasize design features. - **Use a three-point system**: For product renders, pair a key light (main focus) with a fill light (softens shadows) and backlight (separates the model from the background). Warm tones suit wood (inviting); cool tones work for modern metal/plastic (sleek). - **Start simple**: Begin with a soft box/area light as the key, a lower-intensity fill opposite, and subtle backlight. - **Adjust for materials**: Reflective surfaces (glass, polished metal) need softer, diffused light to avoid glare.