FAQ

OSL or Open Shading Language is a scripting language specifically designed for shader and rendering work in 3D graphics. Developed by Sony Pictures Imageworks, it allows for complex shading algorithms to be expressed concisely and efficiently.

What are the benefits of using OSL files in 3D rendering?

Resolution Independence. Unlike bitmaps, OSL shaders are resolution-independent, providing high-quality textures regardless of zoom level.

Infinite Variations. The procedural nature of OSL allows for infinite variations in textures by adjusting parameters, offering a high level of customization.

Memory Efficiency. OSL shaders generate textures at render time, reducing the memory usage compared to bitmap textures.

Improved Workflow. With the ability to be shared and reused across different projects and engines, OSL shaders can significantly enhance your workflow.

Non-Destructive Editing. Changes to OSL shaders are non-destructive, allowing you to adjust parameters at any time without altering the original shader.

Predictable Results. OSL shaders are rendered mathematically, providing consistent and predictable results.

Interactivity. OSL shaders can dynamically respond to changes in the scene or object parameters for a more interactive design process.

Which rendering engines support OSL files?

We support Cycles, Arnold, Renderman, V-Ray, Octane and Redshift.

How can I purchase OSL files from your web store?

We have an library of 3D assets. Each asset comes with the ability to be exported as an OSL shader or bitmap texture in 1K, 2K, or 4K resolution.

Once an asset is purchased, you can export the corresponding OSL shader or bitmap texture anytime from our website, offering you the flexibility and ease of use for any future projects.

What licensing terms apply to the OSL files?

You're free to download and use any of our assets for personal projects without any charges. The OSL shader or bitmap texture corresponding to the asset can be exported for personal use.

For commercial projects, you're allowed to download and test the assets free of charge. To use these assets in your commercial project, you will need to purchase a commercial license.

Can I use the purchased OSL files in commercial projects?

Yes.

Which versions of Cycles, Arnold, Redshift, and other supported rendering engines are compatible with the OSL files?

Our OSL files are compatible with Blender's Cycles (version 2.79 and later), Arnold (version 5.0 and later), and other rendering engines that support OSL. However, it's always recommended to check the specific version compatibility before use.

Are there any specific hardware or software requirements for using OSL files?

There are no specific hardware requirements for using OSL files. However, your rendering software must support OSL, and it should be up-to-date to ensure compatibility.

How do I install OSL files in my rendering software?

The process may vary depending on your software, but generally, you import or load the OSL files in your material or shader editor. Once imported, they can be connected to material nodes to create the desired effects.

Are there any additional setup steps required after installation?

No, once you've imported the OSL files, you're ready to use them in your materials. However, different shaders might require different setup depending on their functionalities.

Our OSL files are computer-generated and designed to work optimally as they are. Therefore, we generally do not recommend manually modifying the code in the OSL files, especially if you are not familiar with the Open Shading Language. Incorrect modifications could potentially lead to errors or undesired results.

However, we understand that every project has unique requirements, and to cater to this, each of our OSL shaders comes with a set of parameters. These parameters can be adjusted within your Digital Content Creation (DCC) software's shader editor to generate different variations of the shader. This allows you to tailor the shader's appearance to suit your specific needs without having to edit the OSL code directly.

Are there any limitations or known issues when using OSL files?

OSL shaders are generally very versatile, but some complex shaders might render slower than others. Also, not all rendering engines fully support all OSL features.

I'm experiencing issues with OSL files. What should I do?

If you encounter any issues, ensure your software and hardware meet the requirements. If problems persist, contact our support with a detailed description of the issue.

Why are some OSL files not producing the desired results?

This could be due to a number of reasons like incorrect setup, rendering settings, or incompatibility with your rendering software.

Are there any known conflicts or incompatibilities with other plugins or software?

While we strive for compatibility, certain plugins or outdated software versions may cause issues. If you're experiencing problems, please let us know so we can investigate.

What is your policy regarding returns and refunds for OSL files?

Under what circumstances can I request a refund?

Refunds are considered on a case-by-case basis, typically for technical issues that are beyond our control to fix.

How do I initiate a return or refund process?

Contact our support team with your order number, the product you'd like to return, and the reason for the request. We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Yes, we have a dedicated Discord server where users can share tips, ask questions, and get advice. Our support team is also always ready to help with any issues you might encounter.