how to make normal maps in max

make your simple model, make sure that the sihl is close
unwrap
make the complex model(s)

add modifier 'projection' to the original model
pick the complex model(s)
adjust the cage
WHAT IF turbosmooth?
make sure original object is selected




press 0 for render to texture
also avail under render > render to texture

projection mapping
tick - enabled projection
gamma override 1

if not, customize > preferences > Gamma and LUT > Enable Gamma/LUT COrrection


if you want better quality, make it YUGE, then blur, then shrink down


*its gotta be an arc and design, otherwise, need to flip x

Q & A

is it better to bake normals with symmetry or just half?