Heightmap Aligning

[Evil_Clown 0]

Im searching for the best heightmap program/plugin.

Is there a program where you can import the flat image and then draw out hills and mountains until you are happy with the results and export it as a heightmap? In real time.

[dmitri 0]

You could try Zbrush. There's a couple of ways to do this in different 3D packages if you have access to them..

If you prefer working in 2D but would still like to see a quick 3D result, you could use 3DSMax's (or other packages) mesh displacement.

Create a plane with segments\vertex count that matches your cell size in Visitor.

Apply your image to Max's displace modifier (alters object shape based on grayscale values, what visitor does with your terrain.png) onto the plane.

Keep image editing software and Max open, each time you paint on your image and save it, Max will update the displaced plane in it's viewport giving you a pretty quick 3D preview.

If you have access to Maya, you could sculpt a plane using the sculpt geometry tool. Then add your sculpted plane to a render layer, apply the luminance depth render layer preset. Then render the plane from an orthographic top view. The luminance depth will render areas closer to the camera (high) as light shades, and lower areas (further from the camera) as dark shades. Save the render and use it in visitor.

[jezpops 0]

Try earthsculpture, you can make the terrain and colour it (in 3d) for your mask and export them both.