Reflection (computer graphics) (original) (raw)

Reflection in computer graphics is used to emulate reflective objects like mirrors and shiny surfaces. Accurate reflections can be accomplished e.g. by a ray trace renderer by following a ray from the eye to the mirror and then calculating where it bounces from, and continuing the process until no surface is found, or a non-reflective surface is found. Approximate reflections can usually be computed faster by using methods such as environment mapping. Reflection on a shiny surface like wood or tile can add to the photorealistic effects of a 3D rendering.