Systems and Methods for Processing Images of Objects Using Global Lighting Estimates

An image processing system and method for determining an intrinsic colour component of one or more objects for use in rendering the object(s) is described. One or more input images are received, each representing a view of the object(s), wherein values of the input image(s) are separable into intrinsic colour estimates and corresponding shading estimates. A set of surface normals for the object(s) of the input image(s) is determined. In accordance with the values of the input image(s) and the determined set of surface normals, a global lighting estimate is determined which provides consistent corresponding intrinsic colour estimates for a plurality of regions of the object(s) from the input image(s). The intrinsic colour component is determined in accordance with the values of the input image(s) and the determined global lighting estimate. The determined intrinsic colour component of the object(s) and the determined set of surface normals for the object(s) are stored for use in rendering the object(s).