# From model view to a little more real.

Keep modeling in SketchUp. Bring a screenshot, then explore the light and materials around your design.

**Audience:** For SketchUp users working on interiors and architecture

[Render your model view](/try/ai-rendering-for-sketchup/start)

## How it works

SketchUp rendering, from your own image.

1. **Prepare the view in SketchUp** — Choose the camera, show the important geometry, and hide distracting selections or guides.
2. **Export and upload an image** — Use File → Export → 2D Graphic, or take a clear screenshot and upload it to Bob.
3. **Describe the finished look** — Specify materials and lighting, refine the image, and check it against the original model.

## Example prompt

```
Use this SketchUp screenshot as the composition reference. Explore warm daylight, a natural material palette, and simple planting. Keep the massing, roofline, openings, and camera angle.
```

## Your modeling workflow, continued.

Develop the exported image without replacing the model you work in. These examples illustrate model-to-image and visualization directions, not a SketchUp plugin.

- **An exterior with context** — Bring a model view into a scene with people, planting, and natural light.
- **An interior with atmosphere** — Use a room view to explore finishes, furnishings, and a warmer mood.
- **Another lighting direction** — Develop a different time of day as a visual concept.

## Benefits

- **No plugin to set up** — Export an image or take a screenshot, then continue in your browser.
- **Brief the look, not a render engine** — Describe your material and lighting intent in a conversation with Bob.
- **Keep your source model separate** — Explore imagery without modifying the original SketchUp model or scene.

## Tips

- Export the viewport itself rather than a screenshot full of menus and panels.
- Use a clear camera composition and visible edges for important design elements.
- Name the materials you intend, especially when the exported view uses plain surfaces.

## SketchUp rendering questions

### Is Rendervis a SketchUp plugin?

No. Use SketchUp to prepare your view, then upload an exported image or screenshot to Rendervis. There is no plugin to install for this workflow.

### Can I upload my native .skp file here?

This workflow uses an image, not a native SketchUp file. Export a 2D graphic or capture your viewport before uploading it to Bob.

### Does this modify or synchronize my SketchUp model?

No. Rendervis creates visual concepts from the uploaded image. Your source model stays separate, and generated edits do not synchronize back to it.

### Can I use a screenshot from another modeling tool?

Yes. The workflow is image-based, so an exported view from another modeling tool can also be used. Give Bob a clear image and explain your design intent.

### Will every edge and material remain accurate?

No exact fidelity is guaranteed. Specify what should remain fixed, and review the output against your model before using it in a presentation.

Rendervis is independent of SketchUp. This is an image-based workflow, not a native .skp importer, live model connection, or SketchUp extension. AI may change design details.

## Related workflows

- [Sketch to render](/try/sketch-to-render.md)
- [Presentation set](/try/architectural-presentation-set.md)
- [Exterior design](/try/ai-exterior-design.md)

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