What you can do with Blender...

I got inspired a few days ago to complete a digital chessboard project that I started many moons ago. I had done the chessboard itself, attempting to replicate one that I had built for my family back in the 1990's. But with the digital version of the board done, it kind of sat there forgotten for the better part of a year, I think. Anyway, here is the completed set, rendered out in full HD (click on the preview above). I'm rather pleased with the results! A few more tweaks with lighting, add a little environment, like a table, a window, a cup of coffee... and "checkmate!"

Just in case you think this is an actual photograph, here's a little evidence to the contrary...