Using Maps for Added Realism (Concept)

Using Maps for Added Realism

Mapping is a way of increasing the complexity of a material.

Mapping uses various levels of map settings and properties. The hierarchy for maps are as follows:

Material type drives the map channels offered, such as Diffuse, Reflection (only available on Advanced material types), Opacity, and Bump.
Map Channel selections override the diffuse color assignment in the Material editor.
Map types, such as, Texture Map or procedural maps such as Checker, Marble, and so on, are selected under a map channel. Texture Map does not have property settings other than at the top material level, but allows you to select an image to map to an object or face. Procedural maps have property settings at the next level.
Sub-procedural maps provide the ability to nest another texture map or procedural map within a procedural map. It is only available if a procedural map is selected at the top level.

For more information, see any of the following topics:

Use Map Channels for Added Realism
Map channels add the realism of texture to a material.
Understand Map Types
Map types increase the complexity of a material.
Modify Map Properties
Map properties can be modified to create complex patterns by changing the map settings.
Adjust Mapping on Objects and Faces
After you attach a material with texture, you can adjust the orientation of the texture map on objects or faces.