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APRIL 06, 2004 Getting Amorphous in Amorphium, Part 2
The height map Contrary to what you might think, a height map is not the same as a bump map. Whereas a bump map uses a texture source to simulate texture depth in your final render, a height map uses a texture to change the actual geometry of the object. While the result is quite similar to the effect you'd get from a bump map, there are three advantages to using a height map. First, it can be used in conjunction with the bump map in Amorphium, so you can create texture based on two separate source images. Second, you have control over the brightness and contrast of the height map image, which affects the way the map alters your geometry. And, third, you can apply the height map multiple times using multiple maps to increase and/or alter the effect even more. To apply a height map to your object, simply click on the HeightShop tab in Amorphium. Using the Height Map palette, open up your source image (File > Open), adjust its brightness and contrast and choose the channels you wish to use. When you're set, select the Apply Spheric tool, and click on the object. Note: Owing to a quirk in Amorphium's undo function, it's a good idea to save your project before applying the height map because once you render your scene, you will be unable to undo the height map operation. [an error occurred while processing this directive]  And there you have it.  To create some variations, try swapping out your texture files in your Material settings, rotating the camera, etc. Here are some variations I created, all using the same object.     Next time around we'll move into animating your abstract artwork. Until then, if you have any further questions, be sure to drop me a line at dnagel@digitalmedianet.com or visit me in one of the forums at DMN Forums. —Dave Nagel Prev 1 2 3 4 Related sites: Related forums: [an error occurred while processing this directive] 
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