# Ambient occlusion (texture)

Ambient Occlusion is an effect that simulates soft shadows and shading by calculating how geometry blocks ambient light, adding depth and realism to 3D models.

An **Ambient Occlusion** **(AO)** **texture** is pre-rendered and stored as an image, enhancing realism without negatively impacting performance during real-time rendering. This texture can be generated directly within Vectary Studio or imported from external software

{% hint style="info" %}
The AO texture generation does not depend on scene lighting conditions. It captures geometry-based shading purely from the distances and angles between surfaces. Therefore, AO textures remain consistent and effective regardless of lighting changes within the scene.
{% endhint %}

Recommended uses:

* Static scenes
* High-detail objects requiring realistic shading
* Scenes aiming for optimized rendering performance

<figure><img src="https://2973737105-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FAXNLyKVZ2tvtyDr8sVES%2Fuploads%2F16tDrUl62KFb02rFQ9Wb%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=ab73f6d8-2ace-486e-89ef-5deeec4598d8" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Tutorials&#x20;

Learn more about this feature: [#retain-ao](https://help.vectary.com/documentation/design-mode/light-sources#retain-ao "mention")

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swPzcGhtThQ>" %}