The perception of depth and form in fine arts, video games, and medicine

Medical imaging technology has greatly improved over the last 40 years. A good example of this is the improved 3D reconstruction capabilities of computed tomography (CT), which enable photorealistic reconstructions. This technological advancement has also taken place in the computer industry, and the development of modern graphics cards has fueled progress in video games. In art, many of the techniques used to improve three-dimensionality have been known for centuries. At first sight, these fields seem unrelated, but there is actually considerable confluence. The present article focuses on three areas: fine arts, video games, and medical imaging. The art section illustrates different drawing techniques used to create three-dimensionality. The video games section shows the development of video games from the 1980s to the present day. Finally, the medical imaging section focuses on the first 3D radiography reconstructions in the 1980s and the improvements to the present day. Contemporary video games and 3D reconstructions of CT scans enable photorealistic impressions of 3D anatomical structures. An important factor is shadow casting and light, which has been known in fine arts for centuries. The effect on the observer of photorealistic 3D reconstructions in video games and in medical imaging can largely be explained by the knowledge of 3D techniques used in drawings and paintings.