How it works:

A hillshade creates a 3D effect on a 2D map by simulating how the sun illuminates the terrain.

• Azimuth: The compass direction the sun is shining from (standard is 315° NW).
• Altitude: The angle of the sun above the horizon. Lower altitudes create dramatic shadows.
• Z-Factor: Multiplies the elevation differences before calculating the slope. This artificially exaggerates vertical features, which is highly useful for visualizing flat landscapes.