Iray for 3ds Max uses existing camera functionality in 3ds Max, and is compatible with all on-camera Multi-Pass Effects. Iray for 3ds Max also adds an Iray specific depth of field effect which is recommended for use in Iray scenes.
Add or select a Camera in your scene, and select the modify panel
On the camera's Parameters rollout, under the Multi-Pass Effect group select Depth of Field (Iray+)
Ensure the Enable checkbox is checked, if you have an ActiveShade window open you will see the effect and any changes made to the parameters.
✱ Note: Lower f-stop numbers result in a shallower (blurrier) effect, larger numbers result in a sharper image.
Depth of Field Parameters & Compatibility
Multi-Pass Effect
Enable: Turns the chosen Multi-Pass Effect on/off
Preview: Not compatible with Iray, use ActiveShade to preview effect
Multi-Pass Dropdown: Gives choice over Multi-Pass effect. Depth of Field (Iray+) is recommended, however other depth of field effects will also work
Render Effects Per Pass: Not compatible with Iray as depth of field is created in the first pass.
Target Distance: Sets the location of the camera's target, defining the focal point of the effect. If you don't want to alter your camera's target then you can instead use the Distance parameter below
Iray+ Depth of Field
f-stop: Adjusts the strength of the depth of field effect
Focal Distance
Use target distance: Enable checkbox if you are using a Target Camera and want the focal point of your scene to be where your camera's target is positioned as set in the above Target Distance spinbox. If unchecked, Distance will be used instead
Distance: For Free Cameras or manual control over focal distance in your scene, this will be used if Use target distance checkbox is unchecked
Apply to backplate: Applies depth of field effect to any backplate in your scene.
