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How Do I Make a Depth Map in Photoshop?

Last updated on March 19, 2023 @ 10:47 am

When it comes to digital photography and image editing, one of the most popular questions is “How do I make a depth map in Photoshop?” While there are a number of ways to create depth maps, the process is actually quite simple. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a depth map in Photoshop in just a few easy steps.

First, open up your image in Photoshop.

You’ll want to make sure that your image is in RGB mode and that the background is white. If your image is in CMYK mode, you can convert it to RGB by going to Image > Mode > RGB.

Next, go to Filter > 3D > Generate Bump (Height) Map. This will bring up the Generate Depth Map dialog box.

In the dialog box, you’ll need to adjust the settings according to your preference. There are three sections here:

1. Bump Details – This section allows you to adjust the amount of blur and detail that you want your image depth map to have.

2. Contrast Details – This section allows you to adjust the contrast details in the original image.

3. Material Preview – This section allows you to adjust the bump texture of the image and adjust the UV properties such as Tile and Offset. The Tile setting determines how much detail is included in the depth map, while the Offset setting determines where the focus of the depth map lies.

If you’re not sure what settings to use, we recommend starting with a Tile of 1 and an Offset of 0.5. Once you’ve adjusted the settings, click OK to generate your depth map.

PRO TIP: This Photoshop tutorial shows you how to make a depth map, but it does not explain how to use the depth map to create a 3D effect. If you don’t know how to use a depth map, you could end up with a distorted image.

Your depth map will now be generated! All that’s left to do is save it as a separate file so that you can use it in your 3D applications.


Morgan Bash

Morgan Bash

Technology enthusiast and Co-Founder of Women Coders SF.