The Challenge

Recreating real world racing circuits accurately requires more than traditional photographic reference. Every detail, from track surfaces and kerbs to surrounding architecture, barriers, signage and vegetation, contributes to the authenticity of the final environment.

For development teams, having access to comprehensive, high quality reference material is essential for accurately recreating these environments in game.

Our Approach

Studio Blue was commissioned by iRacing to undertake specialist on-location reference capture to support the development of highly detailed racing environments.

Drawing on over 20 years of AAA racing game development experience, our team approached the capture process from an environment artist's perspective, focusing on the information required for modelling, texturing, material creation and environment production.

Our work included:

• High resolution photography: Comprehensive photographic reference of circuit surfaces, trackside buildings, barriers, fencing, signage, vegetation and surrounding environmental details.

• 360° reference capture: Detailed photographic walks covering circuit layouts, pit areas, run-off zones, access routes and surrounding infrastructure, providing artists with contextual reference from multiple viewpoints.

• Photogrammetry: Detailed capture of kerbs, rumble strips and selected surface features, providing accurate geometric and surface information to support material development and normal map creation.

• 4K video reference: Video walkthroughs of access routes, service roads and surrounding areas, helping development teams understand spatial relationships and environmental layouts.

• Environmental research: Documenting the distinctive characteristics, materials, construction details and visual features that contribute to the authenticity of each location.

The Outcome

Studio Blue delivered a comprehensive collection of photographic, video and photogrammetry reference material tailored to the requirements of iRacing's environment production team.

By combining detailed reference capture with practical experience of AAA racing game development, we provided production focused reference material to support accurate modelling, texturing, material creation and environment development.

Our approach ensures that reference is captured with its intended application in mind, giving development teams the information they need to recreate complex real world environments with greater accuracy and less guesswork.

Captured by artists. For artists.

Specific project locations and imagery remain confidential.