Image Plane
From ZBrush Info
Image Plane provides an easy way to load images into ZBrush for use in texturing, such as using ZProject brush polypainting, and as photo reference for modeling.
- For ZProject polypainting, quickly change the background image without leaving Edit mode.
- For modeling with photo reference, automatically place image behind model, adjust model transparency and store model position.
After installation you should have an Image Plane subpalette in the Texture palette, with a LoadImage button, ImgSize, Shift H, Shift V and Model Opacity sliders. Shift-click the LoadImage button for help.
Instructions
Click the LoadImage button to create an image plane. If a texture is selected that image will be used, otherwise you will be asked to choose an image file.
If a model is in Edit/Transform mode then the plane will be placed behind the model (for example, for ZProject brush polypainting).
Use the ImgSize slider to adjust the size of the image as a percentage of document size. For polypainting with the ZProject brush the slider value should be changed before loading an image.
The Shift H and Shift V sliders adjust a background Image when a model is in Edit mode. They have no effect in Projection Master.
The Model Opacity slider is for adjusting the opacity of a model against a background image used as reference for sculpting. It can be used with subtools. Simply adjust to the desired level. The Fast Shader material works well with model opacity.
The RePos button will store a model's position for recall later. Shift+click the button to store, click to recall the position.
Use with Projection Master
When Texturing with Photo Reference in Projection Master you will need to follow these instructions (though note that this method will not work with MacOSx version 3.2, see below):
- Before entering Projection Master and with your model in Edit mode, press the Image Plane button to place your photo behind the model. This will create a Plane3D of the right dimensions which will be used later.
- Clear the background (Ctrl + N) and enter Projection Master (G).
- Make sure a white material is selected (but don't use Flat Color as this material will not work). SkinShade4 or MatCap White01 are good choices.
- In the Tool palette, select the Plane3D which has the photo applied and draw on top of your model. Try to choose a flat area of your model so that the plane is fairly square with the canvas.
- Turn on Edit and frame the photo plane by pressing 'F'.
- Switch off Edit and turn on Rotate so that the Gyro appears.
- Hold Shift and click+drag inside the Gyro to rotate the plane until it is square to the canvas.
- Turn off ZAdd. This will wrap the plane to your model. Now click and drag downwards outside the Gyro to bring the plane forward until your model is completely covered by the plane.
- Turn on Edit and switch on Move. You will now be able to reposition the photo to fit your model. Use a larger Draw size to move more points. You can switch on Polyframe (Shift + F) to see the wireframe if you wish but remember to switch off before picking up from Projection Master.
- When done, pick up from Projection Master.
Alternative Texturing with Photo Reference
This method will work with ZBrush 3.2 for Mac OSX, provided the plane is converted to a polymesh and the Move brush used for adjustments:
ZProject and Adjusting Photo Reference
Download the Image Plane plugin from the Download Center
For plugin installation instructions see here.
