Description: Light baking is a technical process used in computer graphics that involves precomputing lighting information for static objects. This method allows for efficient simulation of how light interacts with the surfaces of an object by storing lighting data in textures applied to 3D models. By doing so, it achieves a more realistic visual effect without the need to calculate lighting in real-time, which can be computationally expensive. Light baking is particularly useful in environments where objects do not change position, such as in video games or architectural visualizations. This process not only enhances visual quality but also optimizes performance, allowing developers to provide richer graphical experiences without compromising rendering speed. In summary, light baking is an essential technique in the creation of 3D graphics, combining efficiency and visual quality by precomputing the lighting of static objects.
History: The concept of light baking gained popularity in the 1990s with the rise of 3D graphics in video games and animations. Initially, it was used in offline rendering applications, where artists could spend time calculating the lighting of complex scenes. With technological advancements and the development of graphics engines, light baking was integrated into real-time workflows, allowing developers to optimize their games and applications. As the demand for more realistic graphics grew, light baking became a standard technique in the industry.
Uses: Light baking is primarily used in video game creation, where a balance between visual quality and performance is required. It is also applied in architectural visualizations, where the interaction of natural light with spaces is showcased. Additionally, it is used in film and animation production, where precise control over scene lighting is needed.
Examples: An example of light baking can be seen in video games like ‘The Last of Us’, where light maps are used to create realistic environments without sacrificing performance. Another case is in architectural visualizations, where shadows and lighting are precomputed to show how a building will look at different times of the day.
