Bump Map --> Normal Map?

Dakatsu · Post by **Dakatsu** » Fri Nov 02, 2007 10:15 pm

Besides the nVidia plug-in (which doesn't work), is there a way to turn a bump map into a normal map, as in an alternative plug-in for photoshop, or anything of the sort?

HighOctane_Jared · Post by **HighOctane_Jared** » Tue Nov 06, 2007 2:26 pm

The nVidia plugin works great, I use it for work all the time.

MD-2389 · Post by **MD-2389** » Tue Nov 06, 2007 3:49 pm

A bump map is just a black and white image (usually) used to create cheap detail. It already IS a \"normal map\". Its just used differently in the 3D application used to make the model in question. (like layers in your 2D app of choice)

Perhaps if you could describe exactly what you want?

fliptw · Post by **fliptw** » Tue Nov 06, 2007 3:56 pm

ahh no.

a normal map has more information than a bump map.

Dakatsu · Post by **Dakatsu** » Tue Nov 06, 2007 7:15 pm

I reinstalled photoshop and the nVidia plugin works perfectly now

A bump map is black and white, white symbolizing no change in z, while black making the lighting go to the back.

A normal map is mainly blue, with red and green representing z. It allows for the visual look as if stuff is popping out.