Methods and systems are provided for displaying a 3D ultrasound image volume in a desired view orientation. A 3D ultrasound image can be acquired of an anatomical feature in a patient. The actual orientation of the anatomical feature can be determined in space. The 3D ultrasound image including the anatomical feature can be displayed such that the anatomical feature is positioned in a selected orientation that is different than the actual orientation and in relation to a lighting model for generating lighting and shadowing on the anatomical feature.
