Distributed rendering is a Systems Integration term in filmmaking. In virtual production, the nuances of this term take on special meaning. Here, we break down the definition to give you a starting point.
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Distributed rendering is an efficient and advanced way to render high-resolution images in virtual production. Put simply, it is the process of utilizing multiple instances of a renderer to complete a single scene simultaneously. This means that instead of having one machine take on the task of creating the image, multiple machines collaborate simultaneously to generate the same image with a much higher resolution.
The most common example of distributed rendering is found within CGI (computer-generated imagery). Here, computer animation software—such as Maya or 3ds Max—is used to create highly detailed scenes that require significant computing power to render. By using distributed rendering, those applications can run across several machines at once, reducing the time needed to generate the final image.
In addition to CGI, distributed rendering is vital in virtual production. It allows for real-time interaction between characters and objects in a scene, allowing filmmakers to capture complex shots quickly and efficiently. For example, directors can use virtual cameras to move through the environment while actors interact with the elements in real time, making changes on the fly. The rendered frames are then stitched together into a single shot without any loss of detail. As technology advances, we can only expect distributed rendering to become even more integral to virtual production.