Raytracer Diary Part 4

Raytracer Diary Part 1
Raytracer Diary Part 2
Raytracer Diary Part 3

Raytracer Diary

I got a lot done since the last blog!
Here we go:

10. Pyramids and Triangles
I implemented pyramids and triangles, and because I can render triangles, I could render pretty much any object since every object can be made by combining a lot of small triangles.

11. File Format
I created my own file format (.ray) and developed my own syntax to be able to save scenes. This way, I don't have to mess with my code every time I want to change objects.

12. Lights and Camera
The camera can now be moved around and also turned in any direction. Furthermore, I can now use as many light sources as I want.

13. Shadows and Resursive Raytracing
All objects cause shadows now, and last but by no means least:
I have successfully implemented recursive raytracing. This is what causes the nice reflections on shiny surfaces, and this is what the raytracing algorithm is famous for:
being able to render shiny and reflecting surfaces like glass.

Enough said, I'll just show you some pictures:



I think it's pretty amazing how nice those pictures look for such a simple self-made programm


Coming up next:
Not a whole lot more I guess because I have to turn in my final programm soon, and once the project is done, I will most likely have to spend my free time for other college work...
Maybe I'll write a tutorial on how to programm your own raytracer.
We'll see...


I hope you had fun reading this!
Thank you!