Open Shading Language (OSL)

Open Shading Language (OSL) is a specialized programming language used in computer graphics to create realistic surface appearances, like how materials reflect light or show texture. Designers and artists write small scripts in OSL to control shading—how objects look when illuminated—allowing for detailed, custom surface effects. It’s widely used in rendering software to produce high-quality, photorealistic images by enabling precise and flexible material definitions that can mimic real-world materials or create fantastical surfaces.