Using Environment maps to quickly add textures

[JohnArtbox]

Here's a technique for quickly laying a surface texture over an irregular object without first needing to decal it. The various projection map types work well for regular-shaped objects like sphere's, planes and cylinders. For irregular rounded shapes a projection mapping type which is based on the surface normal is often a better solution. AM doesn't currently have this option but for stills you can use the environment map to project a texture. Just add an environment map material and select an image. A spherical projection is ideal because it avoids pinching at the poles, but even simple photographic textures work well.

On larger flat areas the texture will stretch, but this can be minimised by adding a fractal bump material to break up the streaking.

This technique is great for trees and other objects which are time consuming to decal.

[johnl3d]

nice tip and display..