Unreal Engine 5 - Lighting for Beginners & Cinematics!

You will install UE5 via the Epic Games Launcher.

Create a new project by selecting a template and configuring settings.

Download FAB assets. I prepared PDF list of all assets for you.

*Since the course was created two weeks before the FAB launch, this Lecture has been updated. Some assets, such as the "Megascans Abandoned Apartment", still haven't been added to FAB, so below you’ll find a link to download this asset from our Google Drive in PDF. If this asset is added to FAB over time, you’ll be able to add it directly to your library.

You will learn the basic functions of UE5. I will show you how to control the view, important hotkeys, features of various windows, and what you should pay special attention to.

*I prepared list of most important Hotkeys & Commands in UE5. PDF file ready to download below:

We will set up the project to work with our actors, then add all Lighting Sources to create a new, customized Lighting System.

Learn how to use Sky Light in UE5, including the most important settings, features, tips, and everything you need to know for creating your scene.

*I created separate folder "Textures" and imported 2 HDRI maps, I called them "Midday". You can find HDRI textures on multiple pages or buy them from FAB. Personally I prefer to use POLYHAVEN (do not promote them in any way!). Just remember to select HDRI format of file before downloading.

Create Master Sequence with 2 shots. Learn how to use Sky Atmosphere in UE5, including the most important settings, features, tips, and everything you need to know for creating your scene.

Discover how to use Directional Light in UE5, a lighting source that mimics the real sun. You'll learn the key settings, features, tips, and everything essential for creating your scene.

Our world would look unrealistic without clouds, so we will thoroughly discuss the features of Volumetric Clouds and how to use the free Volumetrics plugin. However, the functions of this actor are relatively limited, so it’s often worth looking for additional assets to achieve a better effect.

Learn how to use Exponential Height Fog in UE5, including the most important settings, features, tips, and everything you need to know. Use Volumetric Fog feature and control all important parameters.

A detailed overview of Post Process Volume, covering all the essential functions and features that will elevate your cinematics to the next level. Experiment with the settings to find the best configurations for your project.

Put your acquired knowledge into practice by creating your own system based on the presented project, utilizing all the discussed Lighting Actors. Be creative and have fun!

We’ll delve into using HDRI Backdrop and create a BP Lighting Reference for your projects.

Below I prepared PDF guide how to control HDRI Backdrop in your scene, to achieve better results.

Create a new, customized Lighting System. Prepare settings, understand specific features and utilize Environment Light Mixer.

Put your acquired knowledge into practice by creating your own system based on the presented project, utilizing all the discussed Lighting Actors.

We will create the God Rays effect in your scene step by step using the Lumen system. You'll see how to efficiently and quickly control lighting in the Interior Level.

Learn how to create and properly control Sublevels, which we'll use as different lighting systems in your Studio.

Discover how to use Point Light in UE5. You'll learn the key settings, features, tips, and everything essential for creating your scene.

Discover how to use Rectangular Light in UE5. Probably the most popular and frequently used light source in studio settings.

Discover how to use Spot Light in UE5. The most performance-efficient light source available, particularly useful in scenes with a single light source.

In Unreal Engine, emissive Materials give artists a very cheap and effective way to create the impression that a surface is glowing or casting light without using using any of Unreal's standard Light Types. Depending on your settings, Emissive Materials can act as a real light source that casts illumination into the environment around them, or they can self-illuminate without emitting light into the scene.

We'll create a complete Studio Scene using the 1 Light Source Technique. We'll incorporate IES Textures, build the entire scene using free assets and various materials, and you'll learn how to control mesh materials for enhanced lighting effects.

*Download 4 Free IES Textures

We'll create a complete Studio Scene using the 3 Light Source Technique. We'll incorporate Rectangular Lights, build the entire scene using free assets and various materials.

I’ll show you how to use GOBO Textures and create a standard Light Function Material. We’ll apply GOBO in our scene, and you’ll also learn how to control the parameters and exposure of GOBO in your project.

*Download 8 Free GOBO Textures

I’ll show you how to render your Cinematic or individual scenes. Additionally, I've prepared two settings for you. Just copy and paste the files into the Content Folder, I recommend the Cinematic folder as the destination.

*Download Custom Settings for PNG and EXR Renders!

There has long been a debate about Path Tracing, whether it’s worth rendering with this method or if it’s better to stick with the traditional model. It all depends on your preferences. In my experience, I would primarily choose Path Tracing for Archviz, but it’s worth testing both options to find the best solution for you. With the current level of Lumen development, the difference is barely noticeable.

*Download Custom Settings for Path Tracing Renders!