Graphics Shaders: Theory and Practice

by Mike Bailey, Steve Cunningham

Programmable graphics shaders, programs that can be downloaded to a graphics processor (GPU) to carry out operations outside the fixed-function pipeline of earlier standards, have become a key feature of computer graphics. This book is designed to open computer graphics shader programming to the student, whether in a traditional class or on their own. It is intended to complement texts based on fixed-function graphics APIs, specifically OpenGL. It introduces shader programming in general, and specifically the GLSL shader language. It also introduces a flexible, easy-to-use tool, glman, that helps you develop, test, and tune shaders outside an application that would use them.

Genres: Technology

420 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Hi, I’m Mike Bailey—high school flunky extraordinaire and Navy-trained fixer.

Grew up in Illinois (good riddance), traveled half the world, bounced through Florida, washed up in Northern Wisconsin where winters drag, coffee bites, and toast is slathered in existential dread.

Started scribbling poetry in high school. Spent decades fixing gear, cranking out tech docs, business briefs, and Navy-grade justifications proving I can fake adulthood. Along the way, I developed a refined distrust of the usual suspects and a weaponized sense of sarcasm.

Debut novel: 10101 SOS: A Bit in Distress. Inspired by Queensrÿche’s song NM156 + Douglas Adams + unhinged early South Park = absurd roast of civilization in a universe that’s half mirror, half funhouse and half anti-reality. Immersive. Entertaining. Mildly infuriating. Exactly the point.

Off-duty, I still fix stuff—mechanical, electrical, philosophical, and the occasional cracked toenail. I only wear Hawaiian shirts and wear my socks inside out because comfort > conformity.

Also: certified Illinois Wastewater Operator because nothing says “I understand society” like a license to handle its output.

Cracked lens supplied. Bring your own conveyance.

Reviews

[Manuel Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book from beginning to end.

It's a shame the book's website is down yet I was able to implemented tons of the examples with no need for the code in the website.

Recommend for anyone wanting to demystify shaders in their minds and be able to think how and when to apply them.

Also goes well with Shadron! (at least for vertex/fragment shaders)

[Alexander · Rating 4 out of 5]

Filled missing spots in my understanding of shaders. I'd say not for total beginners - you should have some understanding of the pipeline & shading before opening it.