A volumetric laser image is a three-dimensional picture formed by points distributed throughout a volume rather than on a surface. The viewer perceives depth because different parts of the image exist at different physical locations inside the material.

The effect is achieved by placing internal light-scattering points at varying depths. When illuminated, the image appears suspended within the object.

Volumetric images differ from relief carvings, which only vary height on a surface. Instead, the entire subject occupies space.

Software such as Cockpit3D converts photographs into data suitable for producing volumetric laser images.