3D Graphics Programming with QuickDraw 3D 1.5.4

Modeling and Rendering

To create images such as that shown in Figure 1 , you typically engage in at least two distinguishable main tasks: modeling and rendering. Modeling is the process of creating a representation of real or abstract objects, and rendering is the process of creating an image (on the screen or some other medium) of a model. QuickDraw 3D subdivides each of these tasks into a number of subtasks.

In QuickDraw 3D, modeling involves

creating, configuring, and positioning basic geometric objects and groups of geometric objects. QuickDraw 3D defines many basic types of geometric objects and a large number of ways to transform such objects.
assigning sets of attributes (such as diffuse and specular colors) to objects and parts of objects.
applying textures to surfaces of objects.
configuring a model's lights and shading. QuickDraw 3D supplies four types of lights (ambient light, directional lights, spot lights, and point lights) and several types of shaders.

In QuickDraw 3D, rendering involves

specifying a camera position and type. A camera type is defined by a method of projecting the model onto a flat surface, called the view plane. QuickDraw 3D provides two types of cameras that use perspective projection (the aspect ratio and view plane cameras) and one type of camera that uses parallel projection (the orthographic camera).
specifying a renderer or method of rendering. QuickDraw 3D provides a wireframe and an interactive renderer. Renderers support different styles of rendering (for example, points, edges, or filled shapes).
creating a view (a collection of a group of lights, a camera, and a renderer and its styles) and rendering the model using the view to create an image.