In newer VRay versions (6 and 7), use the or the Dome Light with the "Targeted" mode. But for pure background placement, the VRayLightDome (set to invisible) with an HDRI + a separate VRaySky in the environment slot gives you the most artistic control.
| Mistake | Symptom | Fix | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | The scene looks like it's floating in pure white light. No contrast. | Your Background Override is white, but GI is empty . Set Background to black/HDRI, or enable "Use 3ds Max Environment." | | HDRI lighting looks dim & flat | The HDRI is visible behind the model, but the scene is dark. | Go to VRayHDRI parameters > Multiply (increase to 1.5–3.0) or adjust Output Map > RGB Level . Never change the original file's brightness. | vray environment background