Light-Material Interactions and Their Use in Surface Imaging

Digital image acquisition involves the registration of light reaching the sensor array through optical systems. The parameters of the image depend on the type of illuminator used to illuminate the scene. They are also dependent on the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with the illuminated materials. The article discusses the phenomena that occur during surface illumination and the reflection of light from the surface. Understanding these phenomena makes it possible to select the appropriate type of lighting to enhance selected surface features visible in the digital image. The paper presents the influence of the occurrence of the discussed interactions of lighting with the material on the quality of three-dimensional imaging using selected methods.