---
title: "Image-Based BRDF Measurement Including Human Skin"
authors: ["Stephen R. Marschner", "Stephen H. Westin", "Eric P. Lafortune", "Kenneth E. Torrance", "Donald P. Greenberg"]
year: 1999
venue: "Rendering Techniques"
arxiv: null
doi: "10.1007/978-3-7091-6809-7_13"
source: "https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7091-6809-7_13"
topics: [translucent-materials]
seed_rank: 1321
seed_batch: "sss-translucent-2026-08-25"
reviewed: "2026-08-25"
pool: "graphics"
relevance_score: 8
lineage: translucent-materials
---

# Image-Based BRDF Measurement Including Human Skin

## One-sentence takeaway

Marschner EGWR 1999: measured skin BRDF (pre-BSSRDF) that made people take skin seriously as a material.

## Problem

Predecessor chain image-based BRDF; Torrance-Sparrow. This paper's job: Marschner EGWR 1999: measured skin BRDF (pre-BSSRDF) that made people take skin seriously as a material.

## Design

Marschner EGWR 1999: measured skin BRDF (pre-BSSRDF) that made people take skin seriously as a material. Lineage: image-based BRDF; Torrance-Sparrow.

## Evidence

Rendering Techniques 1999. DOI `10.1007/978-3-7091-6809-7_13`. Marschner EGWR 1999: measured skin BRDF (pre-BSSRDF) that made people take skin seriously as a material.

## Limitations

Acquisition or fabrication paper, not an integrator. Assumes a forward SSS model.

## Implications for Broadside

Anoptic has a forward+ mesh renderer and is betting on FMM+RC 3D GI. Skin is the first character-appearance hole: translucent dermis, not another BRDF lobe. Do not claim Anoptic already has SSS.

## Bottom line

Mint this 1999 Rendering Techniques paper. Marschner EGWR 1999: measured skin BRDF (pre-BSSRDF) that made people take skin seriously as a material.

## Links

- DOI: [10.1007/978-3-7091-6809-7_13](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7091-6809-7_13)