Shaded Relief

Shaded relief is a technique used in topographic maps and digital images to represent the three-dimensional features of terrain—such as hills, valleys, and mountains—by simulating how light and shadow fall across the surface. It enhances the visual perception of elevation changes and landforms without needing actual 3D models, making the landscape easier to interpret. By applying shadows based on a hypothetical light source, shaded relief emphasizes the shape and structure of the terrain, helping viewers understand the geography more intuitively.