Image Map Shader Setup?

Started by jegabert, October 19, 2012, 04:43:59 PM

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jegabert

I am trying to make a mushroom cloud with clouds and a projected Image Map Shader. How would I go about setting that up?

Oshyan

Here are a couple previous attempts which might provide ideas and inspiration:

http://www.planetside.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=1998.msg19504#msg19504
http://www.planetside.co.uk/forums/index.php?topic=13116.msg129805#msg129805

I think first of all you might consider using 2 or more cloud layers, particularly 1 for the top/"head" and one for the base/"stalk". One of the more difficult things would be trying to create a cloud where the top is so significantly wider than the bottom. Using 2 clouds makes that a lot easier. For the top one I'd make a billowy cumulus (example files in the File Sharing area, for instance) and then perhaps just use Localize and adjust the fall-off to make it appear more realistic. Fort the base you might do something similar as far as localized clouds, but have a very tall cloud and a very narrow radius. Neither one would necessarily use an image map in that case.

If you do want to use image maps you would need an image projecting from the side (Through Camera or Plan Z), to get the mushroom shape, and then either use localize again to make it cylindrical, or use a mask from a top view (Through Camera or Plan Y).

With any of these approaches you will likely need unusually high Depth for your clouds.

- Oshyan

jegabert

I am not great at disecting other peoples projects, but I am learning from that example. Thanks!