ILLUMINATED PIXELS provides a balanced, unique approach to great lighting by looking at the why, what, and how of lighting: "Why are you lighting? " This question asks the purpose of your lights and relates to the aesthetic intent of the image. ILLUMINATED PIXELS defines the goals of lighting and explains how to use your lights to accomplish each goal. "What are the physical properties of light you are trying to imitate? " Without a proper knowledge of real-world light, your digital lighting may appear odd or unnatural. This book discusses the properties of light not just in a theoretical sense, but with further discussion of the digital tools you can use to re-create them. "How will you accomplish this? " This book will help you find and apply the appropriate techniques to achieve the best possible digital lighting for your project. Using the questions above as a framework, ILLUMINATED PIXELS explains artistry, real-world physics, and computer technology in a practical, integrated way, giving you the knowledge needed to master the art of digital lighting. All the content and skills taught are non-software-specific, making this book an essential tool for any digital lighting professional or hobbyist. "ILLUMINATED PIXELS covers digital lighting with detail and care. Virginia understands lighting from the perspective of a feature-film technical director and teaches both the concepts and the techniques behind the art. " - Rob Bredow, Chief Technology Officer, Sony Imageworks "ILLUMINATED PIXELS is an excellent resource for artists who wish to learn about the practical and aesthetic principles of CG lighting. " - Peter Weishar, Dean of Film, Digital Media, and Performing Arts, Savannah College of Art and Design "If you buy one book to help you understand what goes on behind the scenes in a professional studio when lighting animation and visual effects, don't hesitate to buy ILLUMINATED PIXELS. " - MacDuff Knox, Senior Technical Director, Disney