Abstract: Realistic image rendition (RIR) aims to realize the realistic cognition of the world, including two main topics:low dynamic range image enhancement and high dynamic range image visualization. The RIR methods on the basis of visual system are firstly reviewed and analyzed. A general framework for RIR based on a modified neighborhood-enhanced-linking intersecting cortical model (NEL-ICM) is presented. The ideal image rendition on display is achieved through meticulous designs. The simulation results show high contrast enhancement effects for non-uniform lighting images, and HDR images gain good visualization with high-quality.