The projection mapping technique enables you to create realistic textures, contours and finishes. By importing a photograph and using the projection mapping parameters in Lightwave, you can create a virtual “mesh” to serve as a base for the graphic. For example, if you imported a photograph of a face, the mesh would have bumps, contours and gradients that perfectly mapped those of the photograph. Naturally, these shapes reflect light in different ways, according to their dimensions and angle.
Virtual lighting rigs let you control the intensity, projection, angle, color and amount of lights shining onto an object. This technique lets you subject multiple objects to the same lighting array. This is particularly convenient if you are creating a graphic where the environment remains constant while the subjects change. Lightwave analyzes the rig information and calculates glare, shadows and light refraction based on the geometry of the object under the rig.
Specular highlighting is the use of an automated process that emulates the behavior under light of various textures. For example, porcelain will react much differently under light than wood. The specular highlighting technique therefore enables you to create a realistic environment in which your 3D designs can exist.
When designing a 3D object in Lightwave, you can save time by creating only half of the shape. The symmetry tool calculates the angles, shape and size of the fully object based on its current state. Not only does this save you time, but it creates a very accurate approximation of the likely lighting conditions on the other half of the object. Shadows that fall on one side of the object can’t fall on the other side, for example.