How to Add Shadows in Three.js in 2025?

title: How to Add Shadows in Three.js in 2025description: Master the art of adding realistic shadows in Three.js to elevate your 3D web graphics. Learn the latest techniques and best practices in 2025.

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keywords: Three.js shadows, 3D graphics, web development, JavaScript, 2025

How to Add Shadows in Three.js in 2025

Three.js continues to thrive as a powerful tool for creating stunning 3D web graphics. In 2025, its capabilities have further evolved to provide more realistic shadow effects, enhancing the depth and realism of your scenes. In this guide, we’ll explore how to add and optimize shadows in Three.js, ensuring your 3D projects stand out.

Setting Up Shadows in Three.js

Before adding shadows, ensure that your Three.js setup is configured correctly with a scene, camera, and renderer. If you’re unfamiliar with the basics, you might want to learn how to inject third-party JavaScript to enhance your project further.

// Import Three.jsimport * as THREE from 'three';// Create the sceneconst scene = new THREE.Scene();// Create the cameraconst camera = new THREE.PerspectiveCamera(75, window.innerWidth / window.innerHeight, 0.1, 1000);// Create the renderer and enable shadowsconst renderer = new THREE.WebGLRenderer();renderer.shadowMap.enabled = true;renderer.setSize(window.innerWidth, window.innerHeight);document.body.appendChild(renderer.domElement);

Adding Lights for Shadows

A shadow requires a light source capable of casting shadows. In Three.js 2025, using a DirectionalLight or SpotLight is the best choice for casting shadows.

// Create a directional lightconst light = new THREE.DirectionalLight(0xffffff, 1);light.position.set(5, 10, 7.5);light.castShadow = true;scene.add(light);// Customize shadow propertieslight.shadow.mapSize.width = 2048;light.shadow.mapSize.height = 2048;light.shadow.camera.near = 0.5;light.shadow.camera.far = 500;

Configuring Objects to Cast and Receive Shadows

You must specify which objects can cast shadows and which can receive them. This is crucial for achieving realistic effects.

// Create a cube that casts shadowsconst geometry = new THREE.BoxGeometry();const material = new THREE.MeshStandardMaterial({ color: 0x00ff00 });const cube = new THREE.Mesh(geometry, material);cube.castShadow = true; // Cube will cast a shadowscene.add(cube);// Create a plane that receives shadowsconst planeGeometry = new THREE.PlaneGeometry(500, 500);const planeMaterial = new THREE.ShadowMaterial({ opacity: 0.5 });const plane = new THREE.Mesh(planeGeometry, planeMaterial);plane.receiveShadow = true; // Plane will receive the shadowplane.rotation.x = -Math.PI / 2;scene.add(plane);

Rendering the Scene

Finally, animate and render your scene, ensuring shadows are properly displayed.

function animate() {    requestAnimationFrame(animate);    renderer.render(scene, camera);}animate();

Conclusion

Mastering the art of shadows in Three.js can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your projects. By following this guide, you’ll implement realistic shadows that add depth and realism to your 3D scenes. Make sure to explore other advanced JavaScript techniques, like Java vs. JavaScript in 2025 or using \w in JavaScript to broaden your programming proficiency.

As technology evolves, staying updated with the latest Three.js advancements empowers developers to create cutting-edge visual experiences. Practice regularly and continue exploring new features to keep your skills sharp.

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This optimized article is designed to provide visually appealing and technically sound advice on implementing shadows in Three.js in 2025. The piece includes links to related content to offer readers a comprehensive view of JavaScript’s evolving landscape.