How does lighting work in real-time rendering?

How does lighting work in real-time rendering?

In real-time rendering, lighting is calculated dynamically to create realistic visuals. Techniques like shadow mapping and screen space reflections are commonly used.

What are the different types of lighting models used?

Common lighting models include Phong, Blinn-Phong, and physically-based rendering (PBR) models, each offering different realism levels.

Can you explain shadow mapping?

Shadow mapping is a technique where the scene is rendered from the light's perspective to create a depth map, which is then used to determine shadowed areas.

What role does ambient occlusion play?

Ambient occlusion adds depth by simulating how light interacts with surfaces, enhancing realism by darkening areas that are less exposed to light.

How can I optimize lighting for performance?

To optimize lighting, use fewer dynamic lights, bake static lighting into textures, and employ level of detail (LOD) techniques.