Daylight simulation with photon maps

Physically based image synthesis remains one of the most demanding tasks in the computer graphics field. Unlike mainstream applications which merely demand visually convincing images and short rendering times, physically based rendering emphasises accuracy at the cost of increased computational overhead. Among its more specialised applications is lighting simulation, particularly in conjunction with daylight. Many materials used in daylight simulation are specifically designed to redirect light, and as such give rise to complex effects such as caustics. Density estimation algorithms such as the photon map are well suited to efficiently render these effects. This thesis investigates the photon maps applicability to daylight simulation by assessing its ability to produce physically correct results. To this end, a method to compensate for inherent bias in the reconstructed illumination is proposed. Furthermore, the thesis documents a methodology for validating the photon map based on analytical case studies and measurements from simple experimental setups.