Setting camera location by Latitude and longitude?

[ajcgi]

Metric... Decimal degrees. Potato potato. (Those are pronounced differently to each other. )

Global Mapper is the way forwards. I am using it here lately for very similar purposes where working with crazy data sets.
I can recommend using Parallels in OSX btw. Saves on a whole bootcamp thing. I use Bootcamp at home because it plays nicely with esoteric 3D software like Softimage. Otherwise Terragen works really nicely in Parallels and I'd expect Global Mapper to be the same.

One thing with Global Mapper is grab a coffee, take a deep breath and read some of the manual. It's a pretty advanced program, but the simple stuff you and I need is actually quite easy to find.

[Oshyan]

It sounds like *most* of what you want to do is data conversion/"massaging", rather than say adding detail or procedural textures, or rendering, all of which are more Terragen's strengths. "Simple" data conversion is better done with a dedicated app like Global Mapper, so I have to echo the recommendation of others here on that. Terragen just may not be the tool you need, or at least for this specific part of the workflow.

- Oshyan

[Hetzen]

Actually, I think Terragen can introduce a fair amount of detail into this workflow, especially in the mid to far distance, whilst supporting Modo close in detail. Which is why working around (0,0,0) is really important to keep apps in sync.

I think Terragens strength in this situation is to create a realistic plate for Modo to render against.

[ajcgi]

Yeah it's fantastic for background details. The nearer you get to camera the fiddlier that becomes.