High Dynamic Range Image (HDRI) Rendering

This paper suggests a method known as High Dynamic Range Image (HDRI) to pre-visualise architectural elements in three-dimensional (3D) environment used by Computer Graphic Imaging (CGI) film-makers to integrate 3D models and characters into live action background (special effect). This Intensification Research Priority Area (IRPA) grant project was developed to suggest ways to achieve effective rendering solution and composition of the final output. It will focus on experimental modelling of local cultural elements that provides solutions for radiosity-type effects and dirt shadings. A set of data from an established site (i.e. environment) was captured and represented in High Dynamic Range (HDR) file. This data is integrated with architectural elements (e.g. 3D objects) and then pre-rendered to get the 3D visualisation of the actual environment. Several different exposures were also captured and tested to establish the correct rendering and lighting condition. This earlier result shows that HDRI method provides accurate visualisation and drastically reduces the rendering time without compromising the data (images) with accurate lighting. This paper will demonstrate the process of HDRI, compare the visual impact with “radiosityi technique and other related rendering solutions and present the results, which are useful for architectural animation, simulation and other modelling developments