Forum: Poser - OFFICIAL


Subject: Texture/Character set - Absolute essentials expectations?

Zarabanda opened this issue on Jun 14, 2004 ยท 6 posts


ronstuff posted Mon, 14 June 2004 at 7:32 PM

A GOOD bump map can really add a lot of realism to a rendered skin even if the original texture is extremely realistic and well made. I was shocked to read a statement made by one of the better known realistic texture makers who said something like "Bump maps are not required because of the high quality of my maps." As far as I am concerned that statement is either sheer arrogance or shows a lack of understanding about the rendering process and how highlights and shading can be really improved by good bump maps. Granted, bump maps are no substitute for detailed textures, but in the rendering process they play an entirely different role, but can still enhance an otherwise less detailed texture. They really "shine", however when applied to the spectral aspects of the skin especially the "sheen" or "wet look" which at best, will appear "oily" or "plastic" if a bump map is not used. With that said, the question of whether to include bump maps with a product would depend on the quality of the map, and whether or not it fulfilled its role properly. If the bump map is just a grasyscale of the texture that has had the contrast boosted a bit, then I'd say keep it out - we don't need it. Likewise if it is nothing more than a lot of noise, you can keep that too. But if it is made carefully to affect the skin surface with realistic pores and micro-wrinkles then I definitely want it. Examples of good bump maps are the ones that come with the 3rd Gen Mill figures from DAZ - they are outstanding. The bump maps that came with earlier figures are less appealing, but marginally adequate. The bumps that come with the typical 3rd party texture are usually worthless which is why most people would say that they can be omitted. So to the texture makers I'd say, if you take the time to create a good bump map, I'd definitely pay a bit more to get it. If not, you can leave them out cause I got a couple of good ones that I do like, but small details like scars or pock-marks don't line-up with anything except the texture they are made for, so it is not an ideal marriage - just better than a crappy bump by a long shot.