Shadow algorithms for computer graphics

  • Authors:
  • Franklin C. Crow

  • Affiliations:
  • University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas

  • Venue:
  • SIGGRAPH '77 Proceedings of the 4th annual conference on Computer graphics and interactive techniques
  • Year:
  • 1977

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Abstract

Shadows are advocated for improved comprehension and enhanced realism in computer-synthesized images. A classification of shadow algorithms delineates three approaches: shadow computation during scanout; division of object surfaces into shadowed and unshadowed areas prior to removal of hidden surfaces; and inclusion of shadow volumes in the object data. The classes are related to existing shadow algorithms and implementations within each class are sketched. A brief comparison of the three approaches suggests that the last approach has the most appealing characteristics.