Archive notice: This article was originally published on September 21, 2012. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
The new version Lumion 3.0 received improvements in the area of sky visualization. According to the developer, layers with volumetric clouds are now to be used, allowing the user to render shadows and arrange camera flights through cloud formations. The following video shows that the volumetric clouds have gained realism with cast shadows.
In addition to the volumetric clouds, new functions for creating and displaying fog were added. Furthermore, the appearance of water was improved. Instead of using conventional textures for the visualization, targeted algorithms now come into play and produce approximately natural water behavior without visible repetition of wave details. According to the developer’s website, innovations in the user interface have also been integrated which, among other things, are intended to provide a clearer overview. Pre-orders for an upgrade are already possible. A standard upgrade from Lumion 2 to Lumion 3 costs EUR 499, but an early-order discount is available.
The complete pricing structure in detail can be viewed here.