Ken wrote:
> 
> Scanline rendering is a common commercial rendering method but
> I've heard will not in the long run produce as photo
> realistic an image as the raytracing method will.

Among the limitations of scanline renderers are: realistic reflectios &
refracrions, correct shading of transparent&colored objects etc. Some
commercial packages (notably 3DSMax) by default use a hybrid
scanline/raytrace system: reflections/refractions are raytraced,
elsewhere the scanline method is used.
I myself use 3DS4 - an older package, which uses only scanline.
Achieving near photorealism with this is possible only within a rather
limited range of scene types. However, modelling/animation is very nice.
This is how I see it: in still images, POV can quite often give results
on par with any high-end rendering system. Most "special effects" can be
created too, when you are inventive and patient.
When it comes to animations, things are a bit less rosy. Many animated
effects are very difficult/impossible to do - either because of inherent
limitations of the program or because of the lack of appropriate
plugins. Let's face it, you couldn't do Jurassic Park in POV...
This is not to say you can't do great animations in POV, of course. You
just have to invent within the limits imposed. If you don't have the
talent and inventiveness, you won't do anything in MAX, either.
Of course, when we compare the price/value relationship... Well, you get
the point.

BTW! I just heard the new Moray 3.1 has Inverse Kinematics!! This would
add a whole new twist to POV animations.

> Now i'll get flamed for saying that but it's what I've
> heard.
> 

Not here, you won't. You have to go and say it in the Renderman group,
for example ;)

Margus

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