Filter Forge is used by thousands of digital artists worldwide. So what is Filter Forge?
Filter Forge is a computer graphics software which lets the user add filters to an existing image, modify or make their own filter. Though it is often thought of as a "Photoshop" plugin, there is also a standalone version. There is an extensive library of free filters on the Filter Forge website which can be downloaded directly into the software.
There are three versions on offer: 1) Basic which gives the user access to the extensive filter library and render the images. 2) Standard which lets the user create new filters and modify existing filters. 3) Professional includes all the features of basic and standard with the ability to create bump, normal and other maps. Basic and standard also have image size limitations.
There are two parts to Filter Forge's library filters; textures and creative. Texture filters are for making materials which can be used in 3d applications. Rendered images can be made seamless if that option is included with the filter.
Most filters come with a number of presets or variants. There may also be a number of settings which can be adjusted. This depends upon what the creator included with the filter. A number of HDRIs are included with the software as well as a basic light source for diffuse or specular lighting.
Filters can be used to make textures to be used in 3D applications such as DAZ Studio or Vue. Additionally there are special filters which can be used to make bump and normal maps.
Creative filters can be used to add artistic touches or postwork to rendered images. The images in the gallery below show the same image of a car which was rendered in DAZ Studio and then had a variety of different filters applied giving each image a different look.
If you want to make your own textures or want to add effects to your rendered images this is a must have!
Filter Forge is available through the company's website or at DAZ3D.com
Happy Renderings!
