Real-Time Illumination of Foliage Using Depth Maps

Abstract

This article presents a new method for foliage illumination which takes into account direct, indirect illumination and self-shadowing. Both indirect illumination and self-shadowing are approximated by means of a novel technique using depth maps. In addition, a new shadow casting algorithm is developed to render shadows produced by the foliage onto regular surfaces which enhances the appeareance of this kind of shadows compared to traditional shadow mapping techniques.KeywordsFoliage renderingilluminationshadowsambient occlusionshadersreal-timetree rendering