Path tracing

Bounced light and reflections affect illumination across the scene.

Visual traits

• Indirect light
• Reflection
• Transmission

Expected changes

• Bounced light is more likely to appear
• Reflection and transmission are more likely to affect lighting

Definition

Path tracing images a 3D scene by sampling many light paths from camera to lights, including reflection, transmission, and indirect illumination. It does not determine render software, quality, resolution, or materials.

In more detail

It handles the appearance of light bouncing from walls and objects, with reflection and transmission affecting scene illumination. Sample count, noise, exposure, and light placement can be adjusted separately. It is distinct from 3D modeling and mere glossy appearance.

Includes

• Light-transport imaging including indirect light
• reflection
• and transmission
• Rendering by sampling light paths

Excludes

• 3D geometry creation
• A particular render engine
• A particular sample count or quality setting

What this does not imply

• A noise-free image
• A particular quality level
• Particular materials or lighting

Variability

Noise and convergence vary with sampling and implementation.

Usage

• Treat light transport as the imaging method

Distinguish similar expressions

• Specify lighting and materials separately

Typical uses

• Create 3D images with indirect light and reflection

Possible failure modes

• Only materials become glossy
• The image becomes excessively noisy