VarIS: Variable Illumination Sphere for Facial Capture, Model Scanning, and Spatially Varying Appearance Acquisition

Abstract

We introduce VarIS, our Variable Illumination Sphere – a multi-purpose system for acquiring and processing real-world geometric and appearance data for computer-graphics research and production. Its key applications among many are (1) human-face capture, (2) model scanning, and (3) spatially varying material acquisition. Facial capture requires high-resolution cameras at multiple viewpoints, photometric capabilities, and a swift process due to human movement. Acquiring a digital version of a physical model is somewhat similar but with different constraints for image processing and more allowable time. Each requires detailed estimations of geometry and physically based shading properties. Measuring spatially varying light-scattering properties requires spanning four dimensions of illumination and viewpoint with angular, spatial, and spectral accuracy, and this process can also be assisted using multiple, simultaneous viewpoints or rapid switching of lights with no movement necessary. VarIS is a system of hardware and software for spherical illumination and imaging that has been custom designed and developed by our team. It has been inspired by Light Stages and goniophotometers, but costs less through use of primarily off-the-shelf components, and additionally extends capabilities beyond these devices. In this paper we describe the unique system and contributions, including practical details that could assist other researchers and practitioners.