Optics may display a different result in the Viewer compared to the final render because the Viewer is set to a reduced preview resolution by default. This lower resolution improves interactivity but can affect how certain filters are displayed.
Cause of Viewer vs render differences in Optics
Optics Viewer preview settings are optimized for performance.
By default:
The Viewer uses a lower-than-full resolution
This allows for faster, interactive editing
Some filters do not display accurately at reduced resolution
This can result in visible differences between the Viewer and the final rendered output.
Filters affected by preview resolution in Optics
Optics filters that are sensitive to preview resolution include:
S_BleachBypass
S_Brush
Chromatic Aberration
DeNoise
Detail
S_EdgeRays
S_Etching
S_FilmDamage
S_FilmEffect
S_GlowEdges
Film Stocks
Frost
Grain
Key Light
Looks
S_NightSky
Night Vision
S_Rays
S_RomanTile
Silk
S_TVDamage
S_VHSDamage
S_Ultragrain
S_VintageColor2Strip
S_VintageColor3Strip
S_ZapFrom
S_ZapTo
These filters may appear different in preview compared to final render.
How to match the Optics Viewer to the final render
Optics Viewer settings can be adjusted to match final render quality.
To preview accurately:
Set Viewer > Preview Resolution to Full
Set Zoom to 100%
Result after adjusting Optics preview settings
After updating the Viewer settings:
The Viewer will more accurately reflect the final rendered output
Differences between preview and render will be minimized
Filter results will appear consistent with final output
Using full resolution preview ensures accurate visual feedback when working with resolution-sensitive filters in Optics.