Types of Maps

Diffuse map

(supported by Quick Shader and Pixel Shader)

Props with no texture

Props with different textures.


Opacity map

(supported by Quick Shader and Pixel Shader)

Prop with texture and an image as the mask

Prop masked out


Bump map

(Pixel Shader only)

Bump mapping uses the grayscale values of an image map to create variations in the shading of the surface to which the map is applied. It adds details to 3D models without increasing the number of polygons. In iClone, white areas of a bump map are shown as high and black areas are shown as low.

By moving around the light source we can see how the angular light projection changes the bump look. If the light is facing the surface from a straight 90 degrees angle it the bump effects are the least noticeable.

Prop with texture and an image as the bump

Bump - the edge blur from the bump source
image causes a softer bevel effect


Normal map

(Pixel Shader only)


Specular Map

(Pixel Shader only)

This texture mapping method allows parts of an object to have a Specular effect.

Prop with texture and an Specular image

Specular map only has effect within the shape


Tip:

  • Using the same image as both Specular and Opacity maps allows you to create
    special objects.


  • Glow map

    (Pixel Shader only)

    This texture mapping technique allows users to control the glow shape, color and strength.

    Prop with texture and a Glow image

    Diffuse and Glow maps blended together


    Note:

    Tips to create a subtle and effective glow effect:

    • Choose a diffuse image which could ideally glow in the real world.

    • Prepare the glow map, pattern and color design

    • Start by testing from a darker glow map, then increase the brightness step by step to see the best brightness setting

    • Decrease the overall ambient light


    Reflection Map

    (Pixel Shader only)

    Reflection map is also referred to as environment map. The image map is projected onto a 3D surface to represent a reflection of the environment.

    Prop with texture and a Reflection image

    Reflection image projected onto the object


    Tips:

    To create good Reflective effects you should start by using an object that has high specular highlight and gloss values. Then apply black or darker images as the Diffuse map to help making the surface work like a mirror which can fully reflect the reflective map content. If the diffuse map itself is too bright the front light plus reflective setting could cause the result to be overexposed.

    • Most 3D Blocks items are preset with a non-glossy material setting. To achieve high gloss and specular objects, check the \Props\Gloss folder

    • Adjust the camera and light direction to see the natural changes to the reflective surface.

    If you place a reflective object on a simple 2D background you can use high contrast scenery images to mimic the reflective look by importing them as reflection map.

    Sample: Combining Several Texture Effects - Semi-transparent and reflective surface