Normal Texture Map in Photoshop CS4

Normal Maps allow you to create highly detail 3D objects with small amount of polygons. This is the main reason why video games like X-Box, PS3 and many other video game consoles can display high detail 3D objects. If you look at any new games coming out, you can bet they all use Normal Maps.

Normal Maps are also use heavily in the movie and special effect industries. If you see any kinds of 3D special effects, there is a great chance normal maps are use.

Here’s how normal map look like:

Here are some examples of what is possible with normal maps.

Unlike many other texture maps only use black, white and grays. Normal Map uses the RGB values or Red, Green and Blue values to determine the details on the 3D object.

With Normal map you can create bumps and other fine details that Bump map cannot produce.

However, you will not be able to create normal map with Photoshop. You will need a specialize software to create normal maps and then you will need to export the normal map to Photoshop. One of the most popular software for creating normal maps is ZBrush.

To import normal maps in Photoshop is quite easy.

1. First, import in or create a 3D object in Photoshop.

2. Click on the Filter by: Materials to select which material you want to import your normal map into.

3. Next to the Normal button click on Load Texture…

4. Look for your normal map and load it. That’s it.

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