They are used to create special effects, repeating textures, patterns, and fine details like hair, skin, etc. If you have complete mesh and a UV map, simply applying texture to it won\u2019t yield the results. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You need texture maps to define the color, shininess, glow, transparency, and many other qualities of your 3D model. And these are just a few of them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019re going to get you familiar with the most common types of texture maps in 3D modeling and their categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But first things first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is Texture Mapping?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Texture mapping, in its essence, means applying a 2D image onto the surface of 3D objects, known as UV mapping<\/a>, so the computer can generate that data on the object during rendering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Simply put: texture mapping is like wrapping an image <\/strong>around the object to map the pixels of the texture to the 3D surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It significantly reduces the number of polygons and lightning calculations required to create a sophisticated 3D scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You start working with texture long before you even finish your mesh since you always have to keep it in mind. The software you create a model for determines what <\/strong>texture maps<\/strong> you will use to add details<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are texture maps for PBR or non-PBR materials. Both provide photorealistic textures, but one is a good fit for game engines and the other for marketing and promotional purposes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n PBR<\/strong> is an abbreviation for physical-based rendering that uses accurate lighting to achieve photorealistic textures<\/strong>. Though it appeared in the 1980s, it’s become a standard for all materials now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The best 3D modeling software to use PBR are Unity, Unreal Engine 4, Painter, Substance<\/a>, and upcoming Blender v2.8. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"what](\"https:\/\/3dstudio.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/what-is-texture-mapping.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPBR vs Non-PBR Modeling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n