3-D Models > Winter

Objective: This image was generated using a ray tracer (POV-Ray) for an introduction to graphics couse at DePaul University. The instructor asked us to use a height map to model a seasonal scene in POV-Ray. We were required to incorporate at least two thematic elements in addition to the height map. Analysis: A height map was used to generate the mountains, the land and the lake. A "sky" plane was also added over the height map. A color map was then applied to the height map at the appropriate altitudes to create blue water, white snow, grey mountains and white snowcaps. A "wave" function was applied to the "snow" layer to create the appearance of drifted snow. A slight reflection was added to the lake to subtly reflect the mountains. The trees were created using random, recursively-built cylinders. A brown wood texture was applied to the trunk and branches, while a green and white color map was then applied to the individual needles. The tree was definitely the most difficlut and time-consuming piece of the project. Finally, 10,000 tiny, randomly-generated white spheres were added to simulate snowfall.