[WIP] Normal Map Learning Thread

1magus

Hey all I'm trying to learn the proper pipeline learning process for making my models in max and bringing them into Zbrush or Mudbox to make textures.

I have attached 2 renders, one is for the Low Polygon In Game Model and the other is super high-polygon version that I'm trying to get right.

1magus

Here is a test I just did of a Turbo smooth method I just learned for preparing box like object in a sculpting program. Any feedback would be nice.

1magus

Here is an updated version of the high polygon mesh.

Linkitch

Any particular reason why you want to use sculpting tools to create your textures?

I could understand it if you were trying to make something organic, but hard surface stuff is generally easier to just make in Photoshop.

Cibo

Maybe faster and easier?

Hard Surface alone is not important, its often a matter of complexity and the workload for unvrapping.
Zbrushs Spotlight is a fast and easy way to texture a model. Not always people like all work steps and search for shortcuts.

1magus

I'm just trying to figure out my new "pipeline" for modeling stuff out, I know not every model should be sculpted into a texture but I'm not really sure which I should do this with and which ones I should just make a texture in Photoshop with?

Parralax

Generally low detail hard surface stuff does not need to be sculpted. I would say reserve your sculpting for organic or high detailed objects. This will save you time and give you almost the same result.

Although the spotlight tool is awesome, been using it a lot lately.

It is really down to personal preference but I rarely sculpt hard surface objects.

1magus

So for hard surfaces like this, you think it is easier and normally the same result to not sculpt out fine detail for a normal map?