Fig.10 – 11 show the basic render parameters I used for this image.



Textures used for this scene are very basic using diffuse, specular and bump channels (Fig.12).

Post-production

Fig.13 shows the raw render (above) and final render (below). Post-production was done in Photoshop. The first step was mixing the rendered channels (reflection, GI, light) to get the best result. I usually apply the channels on Linear Dodge or Overlay blending mode.


After enhancing reflections and light in the places where I wanted to get more intense result, it was time to play with the levels and color balance. Since I had a reference photo I knew what effect I should achieve so it was a lot easier. The final touch was done using the Nik Software Color Efex Pro. I used the Pro Contrast and Tonal Contrast filters.

Conclusion

So that's it. I encourage you to work on personal projects like this one when you have free time. It really pays off in the future since it's the best way to improve your skills. I hope you found my Making Of useful and learned something from my work.



Some additional close-ups (Fig.14).