Need Help With Baking

[coolwarrior]

Hi, I am new to 3d modeling and don't understand alot of things. Before, all I used to do was make 3d models but then my friend said that I have to make a low poly model and a high poly model then bake them. I don't have a clue of what this means. I have searched alot but cannot find a tutorial that explains that basics of "Baking". If you know any tutorials, please post them, or if you know a thing or 2 about this topic then please post your info. Thanks.

[hostilis]

What 3d modeling package are you using?

If you use 3ds max:

http://www.game-artist.net/forums/sp...l-mapping.html

This tutorial sums up the basics of normal map baking. If you've learned the basics you can also check racer445's video tutorial which taught me a lot about baking.

How to Bake a Flawless Normal Map in 3ds Max

[murphz]

Ben Cloward's is also a good read

He talks about Normal maps in general but dont forget about AO maps as well. Its an additonal map they you can produce when baking a High Poly to a Low for example.

Along with Diffuse maps (Colour). You can look @ Normal Maps. Ambient Occulsion & Specular Maps ( + Baking )