Computer Renderings – „Reality is Overrated”

Abstract

In this paper, two problems concerning truthfulness of computer-gener-ated visualization are considered. The first one concerns relationships between reality and its representation by computer renderings. The second problem concerns the kind of representations people need. These problems are analyzed for static perception of architectural forms based on computer visualization, and for dynamic walk-through perception of urban space. The thesis of the paper is that many photorealistic renderings are excessively realistic and thus not true. In this context, a new question arises: do we need the true representation of an object? The author claims that we need “adequate” pictures. Adequate means a picture that is satisfactory in particular situation. The problem of equivalence of media (renderings and animations) and reality is not that important here. Much research is concerned with the truthfulness and falsity of information. However, they do not take into consideration that frequently what seems to be real exerts bigger influence on people than what is in fact real. Understanding this problem may help us in producing images that better correspond to people’s expectations.