Lighting in OpenGL ES

Lighting in OpenGL ES is a useful feature that can give our 3D games a nice touch. To use this functionality, we have to have an idea of the OpenGL ES lighting model.

How Lighting Works

Let's think about how lighting works for a moment. The first thing we need is a light source to emit light. We also need an object that can be lit. Finally, we need a sensor, like our eyes or a camera, which will catch the photons that are sent out by the light source and reflected back by the object. Lighting changes the perceived color of an object depending on the following:

  • The light source's type
  • The light source's color or intensity
  • The light source's position and direction relative to the lit object
  • The object's material and texture ...

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