Blender 3.4 - Bake Normal Map

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to bake normal maps from a high poly mesh to a low poly mesh in Blender 3.4. Baking normal maps is an essential technique in 3D modeling, as it allows you to transfer details from a high-resolution model to a more optimized, low-resolution version, which is particularly useful for game development and real-time rendering.

Step 1: Prepare Your Models

Before beginning the baking process, ensure that you have both your high poly and low poly meshes ready.

• Import Models: Open Blender and import your high poly and low poly models.
• Position Models: Make sure the high poly mesh is properly aligned with the low poly mesh. They should be in the same location to ensure accurate baking.
• Check for Overlapping Geometry: Ensure that there are no overlapping vertices or faces in the low poly mesh that could affect the baking process.

Step 2: Create a New Image for the Normal Map

You need a blank image where the normal map will be baked.

• Open UV/Image Editor: Switch to the UV/Image Editor panel in Blender.
• Create New Image: Click on "New" to create a new image. Set the dimensions (e.g., 2048x2048) and name it appropriately (e.g., “NormalMap”).
• Save the Image: Make sure to save the new image to avoid losing it during the baking process.

Step 3: Set Up the Material for the Low Poly Mesh

Assign the newly created image to the low poly mesh's material.

• Select Low Poly Mesh: Click on the low poly mesh to select it.
• Open Shader Editor: Switch to the Shader Editor.
• Add Image Texture Node: Add an Image Texture node and select the normal map image you just created.
• Connect Nodes: Connect the Image Texture node to the Normal input of your material's shader (usually a Principled BSDF).

Step 4: Configure the Bake Settings

Set up the baking options to ensure correct normal map generation.

• Switch to Render Properties: In the Properties panel, go to the Render Properties tab.
• Locate Bake Section: Scroll down to the Bake section.
• Select Bake Type: Choose "Normal" as the bake type from the dropdown menu.
• Set Additional Options: Ensure that "Selected to Active" is checked. This allows the high poly mesh to be baked onto the low poly mesh.

Step 5: Perform the Baking Process

Now that everything is set up, you can bake the normal map.

• Select Both Models: In Object Mode, select the low poly mesh first, then hold Shift and select the high poly mesh.
• Initiate Baking: Click on the "Bake" button in the Bake section. The baking process will start, and the normal map will be generated.
• View the Result: Once baking is complete, you can see the result in the UV/Image Editor.

Step 6: Save the Normal Map

Don't forget to save your newly created normal map.

• Save As Image: In the UV/Image Editor, go to the Image menu and select "Save As."
• Choose File Format: Select your desired file format (e.g., PNG or JPG) and save it to your project directory.

Conclusion

You have successfully baked a normal map from a high poly mesh to a low poly mesh in Blender 3.4. This technique greatly enhances the visual detail of low poly models while maintaining performance efficiency. As next steps, consider exploring additional baking options such as ambient occlusion or curvature maps to further enhance your textures and models. Happy Blending!