[Tutorial] Easy, Quick, Ambient Occlusion in MAX

[sampson]

Hey, made up this tutorial for anyone who was a bit confused about it.
Give thanks if you like it
click for full resolution

Also, lighting map can be chosen over complete map. saves applying a white mat

AND REMEMBER TO DESATURATE YOUR TEXTURES IN PHOTOSHOP - THE AO ALWAYS SEEMS TO HAVE A BLUE TINT

[TheCorey]

The "Full resolution" appears the same size to me. And I cant zoom in on it.

EDIT:

yay works now

Thanks for this. It seems to have some small details that the other tutorial I've seen didn't have.

[sampson]

oops sorry about that- it didn't fully upload- will fix within 5 minutes

[Autocon]

you dont have to do a pure white mat, i use the default mat every time and get the exact same result.

[Tiros]

Originally Posted by Autocon

you dont have to do a pure white mat, i use the default mat every time and get the exact same result.

That'd darken your overall texture except if you brighten it up and adjust contrast etc. but better go for a white mat as it'd save one some hassle really.

[Privateer]

Nicely done.
Thank You.

[sampson]

no worries, yes the white mat makes it easier so you don't have to change the levels in photoshop when you set it to multiply. (otherwise it darkens who whole image)

[S!R]

Very helpful, Thank You for taking the time to make this and share it!
A helpful go to guide, saved to my hepful tips folder.

Cheers

[sampson]

Another note if you want to crank up the juicy detail for smoothness more
making the initial sample size smaller seems to increase detail and cranking up rays/sample

[Grizzly3D]

Can i not automatically flatten UVs? Ive already unwrapped my model how i want it :S