Modlab is not an image editor. ModLab is a free tool that can generate normal maps in a realtime deferred rendering environment. It was initially created as an asset previewing and mastering tool for the game Wayward Terran Frontier which means it stands out among other content creation utility programs by featuring a full hardware rendering pipeline for previewing results in realtime.
Modlab can generate high quality normal maps without 3d geometry.
To provide entry level graphic designers an alternative way to create difficult assets such as normal maps and specular/roughness maps.
To provide professional graphic designers an ideal environment for fine tuning their art and exporting ready-to-ship assets.
To serve as a test bed for new experimental content generation techniques and algorithms. i.e. cool stuff we want to play around with.
Depending on reception and feedback Modlab may grow to become much much more. We would like to continue developing Modlab in coordination with the community. Our goal is to have the product remain free and supported by donations, and we will be hosting community polls to decide the direction of future development. Features such as procedural backdrop generation, support for other rendering and post-processing pipes such as Unity or Unreal, and 3d model previews of assets are all on the table.
Key features:
Generate a normal map from a diffuse map using advanced image processing and analytic techniques
Generate detailed normal maps from height maps
Combine normal maps with custom blending parameters
Create a horizontal profile for a normal map using the curve editor
Clean up and sharpen existing normal maps with Bilateral filtering
Generate roughness/specularity maps
Fine tune the intensity of emission maps
Realtime preview with settings for dominant, ambient, and point light sources
