1. An automated, computerized method for processing an image, comprising the steps of: providing an image file depicting an image defined by image locations, in a computer memory; generating a bi-illuminant chromaticity plane in a log color space for representing the image locations of the image in a log-chromaticity representation for the image; providing a set of estimates for an orientation of the bi-illuminant chromaticity plane; and generating a plurality of normal maps, each normal map providing an indication of at least one orientation, each at least one orientation calculated as a function of the set of estimates for an orientation.