Beginning Apophysis 101 ~ v203a, Tutorial Index

Transcription

Beginning Apophysis 101
for
Version 2.03a
Hello, and welcome to a tutorial for the flame fractal program Apophysis.
I started this tutorial as a beginner for beginners. Since then it has been revised once and rewritten once. The latter is
what you are now viewing and was written for the new beta 203a. It has also served as a way for me to learn and
refresh myself on the features and functions of Apophysis. While I assembled and wrote this tutorial, the real credit
goes to the members of the Apophysis mailing list. Their untiring effort to answer questions (over-and-over in a lot
of cases) deserves the recognition.
PDF format of the entire tutorial is available here.
Part I - Program Download/Install
1.
Apophysis Installation
2. New Version and Beta Installation
3.
flam3 Installation
4. Program Folder and Files
Part II - Main Screen
Part III - Menu Selections
1.
File Menu
2.
Edit Menu
3.
View Menu
4.
Flame Menu
5.
Variations Menu
6.
Script Menu
7.
Options
8.
file:///F|/WEB_ROOT/203a/Main/TMP1yrfgozkut.htm (1 of 52)10/26/2005 1:26:32 PM
Help Menu
Part IV - Icon Tool Bar
Part V - Editor Window
1.
Editor Tool Bar Menu
2.
Editor Transform Area
3.
Editor Preview Screen
4.
Editor Function Tabs
a. Triangle Tab
b. Transform Tab
c. Variation Tab
d. Variables Tab
e. Colors Tab
Part VI - Adjust Window
1.
Camera
2.
Rendering
3.
Gradient
4.
Image Size
Part VII - Scripts
1.
Using Scripts
2. Types of Scripts
3. Creating and Editing Script
Part VIII - Mutation Window
Part IX - Options
1.
General Options Tab
2.
Display Options Tab
Random Options Tab
4.
Variations Options Tab
5.
Gradient Options Tab
6.
UPR Options Tab
7.
Sheep Options Tab
8.
Paths Options Tab
Part X - Rendering Images
Provides basic options for rendering flames into images
1.
Rendering Methods
2.
Rendering Settings
3.
Image Types
4.
Render to Disk Option
5.
Export Flame Option
Part XI - Final Reminders and Tips
Advanced Transform/Flame Tweaking
Saving Parameters
Rendering and Exporting Images
●
●
Render to Disk
Export Flame
Transparent Backgrounds
Image Sizes
Copying and Posting Parameters
Beta Versions
Apo in Ultra Fractal Tips
Apophysis Variation Examples
Apophysis Symmetry Examples
Part I
Program Download/Install
One of the keys to being successful with Apo is making sure it is installed correctly and that you can
properly manage the files (flame files, images, scripts). The information I pass on to you is the way I
have found best for me. By all means feel free to do it in a way that is best for you. This is only a
foundation which you can build on.
1. Apophysis Installation
If you have not already downloaded Apophysis do so now by clicking here, then click on the first link
Apophysis 2.02, and use your download manager to determine where to save the file called
apophysis202.exe. From experience I have found the best place to download is to my desk top. Once the
program is installed and running correctly then I just delete the download from my desk top.
apophysis202.exe is an executable file that will start the install process when you double click it. You can
install the program anywhere on your computer and the install process will default to your Program Files
folder unless you specify other wise. My recommendation is to go ahead and put it in your Program Files
folder. When installed it will create a folder called Apophysis 2.0. In this folder will be two sub folders
called Parameters and Scripts, and various files used for program applications.
(Note that if using Windows a error stating the program in not a WIN32 application is may occur.
This usually results from a "corrupted" download. Delete the downloaded file and re download it.
Go ahead and double click on the apophysis202.exe file and this will initiate a standard installation
process. The first screen you will see is a standard notice and disclaimer statement.
Providing you click
then the next screen you will see is the License Agreement.
and click
then the next screen
Providing you checked
you will see is the Destination Directory. I recommend you install it to C:\Program Files directory.
Once you have set the path to where you want to install Apo and you click
screen you will see is Installing Files.
then the next
Once the files are finished installing and you click
then the next and final screen you will see
is the Finish screen.
Go ahead and click the
button and that will close out the installer program.
Once the install is done if a shortcut was not placed on your desktop go ahead and do so.
2. New Version and Beta Installation
Note that 203a and betas DO NOT need to be "installed".
If you already have Apo installed then download the new version or beta file from the source web site.
The new version and beta files are executables that work using previously installed program files and do
not need to be installed as one would a new software program.
.exe files: If the file file is in exe (executable) format I suggest you use your download manager to
place it directly in the Apo program folder. From there you can right click the file and send a shortcut for
it to your desk top or copy and paste it to your desk top.
Note that if you place the executable file directly on your desk top you are subject to Windows
security messages, and files generated to support Apo functions will also be placed on your desk top.
.zip or .rar files: If the file is in this format I suggest you download it to your desk top. From there you
can extract the file(s) and send them to your Apo program folder where you can create a shortcut to
your desk top as described in .exe files above. You can then delete the zip or rar file from your desk top.
3. flam3 Installation
We need to download one more file. flam3 is an optional program that can be used to render your flame
fractals into images such as .bmp .jpg or .png, etc. Click here to download the flam3 zip or rar file. Once
you have downloaded it extract it to your Apo program folder. When it is extracted it will create its own
folder which will contain 4 files. We will also need to edit the Export Render line in the Options, Path tab
changing the path of the Export Render to this folder and the flam3-render.exe file which we will discuss
and do in Part X Options.
4. Program Folder and Files
When you have completed installing Apo your Apophysis 2.0 folder should look something like this.
At this time I would recommend adding some additional folders. Remember, once you are familiar with
the program you can always come back and configure this any way you wish. Add a folder called Flames
and one called Gradients. Go into the Apo program folder and find the cmap.ugr file and move it into the
Gradient folder. We will also need to change the Smooth Palette path in the Options, Path tab which we
will discuss and do in Part X, Options. There is no smooth.ugr file yet, this will be created the first time
you use this gradient function.
Open the Parameter folder and take a look at it. You will notice that there is only one file in here and it is
called apophysis.flame. This file contains a few "starter" flames. By default when you select File, Open
from Apo will go to \Parameters\apophysis.flame.
or Save
Note that a key to good file management is to make sure you check the path in the Save Parameters
window when saving any files.
Part II
Main Screen
Providing you put a shortcut to your desktop go ahead and double click it, otherwise go digging for
apophysis203a.exe in your Apo folder and double click it. When Apo opens this is the screen you should
see.
Across the Top
Menu Tool bar performs the same functions as any other program with the exceptions specific to Apo.
Icon Tool bar provides shortcuts to items in the Menu Tool bar that are used often in Apo.
On the Left
Title lists the names of individual flame files whenever you open Apo or open a flame file. You can also
generate a fresh random batch using Ctrl B. This is also the place where your saved flames will be listed
when you open them which I will cover in more detail later.
Right clicking on the Title list will give you Delete and Rename functions for the individual flame files
listed.
This is a good time to explain the naming convention used by Apo. When Apo is opened the random list
of flames generated are named Apophysis-000000-000, the 0's representing numerical data. The first set
of numbers is the date in YYMMDD format and the second set represents the place for that flame in the
total number of flames generated that day. When you select File Save or
window will open.
the Save parameters
The File name bar in the Save Parameters window defines which .flame file the flame parameters will be
icon in the Save
saved to. To change the .flame file you are saving a flame to use the Browser
Parameters window to set the path or you can manually change the .flame file name.
or
If you want to start a new .flame file to hold a special series of flames you would manually enter the
name you want to use at the end of the File name bar, i.e. special.flames, and Apo will create that flame
file when you save the first flame to it.
The Title bar is used for the name of the specific flame being saved. The name of the flame can be
changed here to whatever name you wish to use by manually editing it.
Note you do not need to enter the .flame file designation.
You can also use special characters that you normally cannot use in programs but be sure to change the
file name when you render it to an image as most programs do not recognize these special characters.
On the Right
Preview screen is a preview of the current flame selected in the Title list. I should point out at this time
that there are a few menu choices that also provide preview screens which are much smaller in size
though. I will refer to the Preview screen you see now in title caps as "P"review window.
Right clicking on the Preview screen will also give you Undo/Redo, Reset Location, and Copy as UPR
functions.
Across the Bottom
Status bar is where the times it takes for the main preview screen to refresh; elapsed and remaining,
and the name of the flame in the Preview screen. These times relate to the Preview screen and the time
it takes to load or refresh a flame.
Note that any of the bars and Title can be "turned off" in the Options drop down menu.
Part III
Menu Selections
1. File Menu
Open or Ctrl O:
Use this to open flame files located in the
Parameters folder. The file extension .flame is the format that Apo
uses to save the "raw" flame parameters. Appears on Icon tool bar.
This is the selection to save the
Save Parameters or Ctrl S:
raw data for the flame in the flame extension.
Save All Parameters or Shift Ctrl S: This function saves all the
flames listed in Title box of the main screen into a file created when
you save them.
Is a option used to convert a picture into a
Smooth Palette:
gradient for use in Apo.
Gradient Browser:
Used to retrieve the gradients files.
Export UPR: Option used to save flame parameters into a usable
format for use with the Ultra Fractal program.
Export Flame or Ctrl X: Option used to render flame images into
an image file such as jpeg or png. This is also part of flam3 which we
will discuss this in greater detail later. You may also see this referred
to as HQI and even see a couple HQI files in the Apo program folder.
HQI is an older version of flam3. HQI reference and files will probably
be taken out eventually.
Import Gimp Parameters: Gimp has plug ins available to create
flame fractals. This function is used to import flames parameter files
created in Gimp.
Random Batch or Ctrl B: Used to generate a new random batch of
flames in the Title area.
Exit or Alt F4: Closes and exits Apo.
2. Edit Menu
Undo or Ctrl Z:
No explanation needed here but Ctrl Z is important to
remember, as you will probably use it a lot.
No explanation needed and almost as equally important
Redo or Ctrl Y:
as Undo, as you will probably spend a lot of time back and forth examining
your flame.
Save Undo: Allows you to save changes in a separate file as .apo. This is
similar to a program that lists your Undo's so you can select backward or
forward to a certain point. To retrieve the file you use the Open browser and
be sure to change the file type to .apo.
No explanation needed but the method used is
Copy or Ctrl C:
important, i.e., Copy versus Ctrl C. I will specify which method works in the
areas where it is applicable.
No explanation needed but the method used is
Paste or Ctrl V:
important, i.e., Paste versus Ctrl V. I will specify which method works in the
areas where it is applicable.
Use to copy parameters (to clipboard) which can then be
Copy as UPR:
to pasted into UF. Click the option in the menu then right click paste in a UF
fractal frame.
3. View Menu
Full Screen or Ctrl F:
Fills your screen with the current flame, Escape
returns you to work mode.
Editor or Ctrl E:
Preview window.
This option allows you to "tweak" the flame in the
Adjust or Ctrl A:
This option allows you to adjust gamma, brightness,
vibrancy, change background color, zoom in and out, and move left and right.
Gradient or Ctrl G:
This option allows you to change the color variations
(hues I believe) of the flame itself.
This option allows you to see possible variations of
Mutation or Ctrl M:
the current flame. The center flame is always the current flame and when
you click on a surrounding mutation it moves to the center and becomes the
current flame.
Image Size or Ctrl I:
This option allows you set the size of the Apo
screen and Preview window. There are some preset values you can use here
and we will discuss these in detail later.
4. Flame Menu
Reset Location or F12:
Used to show an "entire" flame. Sometimes
you can tell a flame extends outside the viewing area and this option brings
it all into view. It can also be used to return to normal after zooming in and
out.
Randomize or F9: Produces a random variation of the current flame and
replaces it.
Random Weights or F5: Randomizes the weight of the flame.
Equalize Weights or F6: Equalizes the weight among the transforms.
Compute Weights or F7: Unknown by me what this is or the purpose.
Calculate Color Values: Unknown by me what this is or the purpose.
Randomize Color Values: Rotates the current gradient. More on this
when we get to gradients.
Another method of saving the current
Render to Disk or Ctrl R:
flame to a usable format such as jpeg or png. If you have a dual core
processor (HT) then this is the method you want to use to save time. I will
discuss the differences between this and Export Flame later.
5. Variation Menu
Use this menu to add a desired variation to the current flame.
Clicking on Random or using F11 applies different wieghts to
the variations applied to the flame thus changing the
appearance. Click here to see examples of each variation.
One important note about the variations... variations added
for a beta release will not work by themselves in Apophysis
2.02 as those that were added in this version will not work
themselves in Apophysis 2.02 or the betas.
6. Script Menu
Run or F8:
Is used to run/start a script. The current script loaded
will be executed on the flame. "Default Animation" is the default script
that loads when Apo is opened.
Stops the script that is currently running.
Stop or Ctrl H:
Open:
This opens a browser and allows you to select a script from
the Script folder (default Apo folder). Once a script is selected its title
will appear in the quotes in the Run command.
Opens a editor window with the current script
Edit or Ctrl D:
loaded in text format. This can be used to edit scripts or to paste and
save new ones.
Manage Favorites: This allows you to select scripts you use often. It
then places them at the bottom of the Script menu below Manage
Favorites. This option also assigns a hot key short cut to the script. As
you can see I have 3 scripts as my favorites starting with Spiralize or
Ctrl F1.
7. Options Menu
Options or Ctrl P:
This menu gives you the ability to turn the
different tool bars on or off and open the Options panel. The Options
panel is where you can reset many of the Apo default settings. After you
learn the basics of the program then you will have a better idea of what
you want these settings to be.
8. Help Menu
Help is just that, help. It is also a good tool for refreshing on the
program.
Part IV
Icon Tool bar Selections
As said in the beginning of the menu section above, the options used the most are repeated on the icon
tool bar as a shortcut. Let's take a little time to discuss them and the basics of each one, starting from
the left.
Open is the same as File, Open/Ctrl O. Opens a browser window and lets you browse to the location
of your .flame file(s).
Save is the same as File, Save Parameters/Ctrl S. Saves the current flame to a .flame file.
Render To Disk is the same as Flame, Render to Disk/Ctrl R. Used to render your flames into image
files such as jpeg or png. This method is slower than Export Flame/Ctrl X.
Undo/Redo are the same as Edit, Undo/Ctrl Z and Redo/Ctrl Y and should need no explanation.
Reset Location is the same as Flame, Reset Location/F12. If there is any part of the flame outside
the "viewing" area Reset Location will bring the entire flame into view.
Rendering Quality is the screen resolution for the Preview windows. This is the same as Option,
Display, rendering, Quality. Even though this is just a shortcut it will override the Option settings. Here
you get values of 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, and 100. The higher the setting the longer it takes to refresh the
Preview window after changes. I personally generally use 5 and then bump it up to get an idea what the
flame "really" looks like before rendering it.
Full screen View is the same as Flame, Reset Location/F12. If there is any part of the flame outside
the "viewing" area Reset Location will bring the entire flame into view.
Note the next four icons are probably the most used options when you are creating/editing a flame
and will be discussed in much more detail in the next part.
Editor is the same as Flame, Editor/Ctrl E. This option is the one that takes a random flame and
turns it into something totally different with you in control (well… mostly in control!). When selected it
opens up another window which we will cover in more detail in Part V.
Gradient is the same as Flame, Gradient/Ctrl G. This option is used to udjust, or change the
gradient or color palette used in the flame. Changing the gradient/color in a flame can totally change the
flame also. Each color affects a transform in the flame and changing the color can effect how that
transform appears or does not appear in the window against the background. When selected it opens up
the Adjust window to the Gradient tab.
Adjust is the same as Flame, Adjust/Ctrl A. This option allows you to adjust flame parameters such
as Gamma, Brightness, Vibrancy, change the background, zoom in and out, move the flame horizontally
(X) and vertically (Y). When selected it opens a window showing each of the sub options and a small
editor window so you can see the changes as you do them. One note in particular here is that zooming in
on the flame will increase your preview refresh time and rendering time exponentially. When using the
slide bars once you let go of it the change renders in the Adjust preview window and the main Preview
window. Use Ctrl Z or Y here for Undo and Redo so it does not close the Adjust window. In version 203a
other functions such as Camera, Rendering, Gradient, and Image Size were consolidated or added to the
Adjust window.
Mutation is the same as Flame, Mutation/Ctrl M. Using this option can give you an idea of the
different variations of the current flame. What it's potential is, some say.
Image Size or Ctrl I is the same as View, Image Size/Ctrl I. Using this option allows you set the
size of the Apo screen and Preview window. There are some preset values you can use here and we will
discuss these in detail later. Selecting it will open the Adjust window to the Image Size tab.
Run Script is the same as Script, Run/F8. A note of interest here is that if you run a script and you
do not like the results you have to use Undo/Ctrl Z twice to return the flame to what it was before you
ran the script. Also, sometimes a script can cause the Run and Stop script icons to go blank. If this
happens you have to exit Apo and reopen if you want to continue using scripts.
Stop Script is just that, it stops the current script running.
Script Editor is the same as Script, Edit/Ctrl D. When selected it opens up a window, which lets you
text edit the script that is currently in Run. You can also use the browser in the Edit window to get
another script. It basically works the same as any word processing tool or notepad. This is a place where
right click Copy and Paste will work but Ctrl C or Ctrl V will not. If you are copying a script from
document to the script editor delete the current script or select new (icon) in the Edit window then Copy
and Paste the new one being sure you rename it when you save it.
Options are the same as Options in the standard tool bar. When selected it opens another window
with multiple tabs. Each tab covers a specific area and has multiple options under it. This is where you
can set most of the default settings to what you want, e.g. The number of random flames generated,
variations used in random flame generation, background color, file setting for saving, etc. As I stated
above we will save this to the end then you will be surer of what you are changing and what you want to
change it to.
Zoom to rectangle (zoom in) is a function that lets you zoom in the same as Adjust, Camera,
Zoom. To use this function select the icon then use the cursor to form a square around the area you
want to zoom in on. Zooming in dramatically increases refresh time!
Zoom out using rectangle Rendering Quality is a function that lets you zoom out. It serves the
same purpose as Adjust, Camera, Zoom. To use this function select the icon then use the cursor to form
a square around the area you want to zoom out on.
Translate image is a function that allows you to move the flame around in the Preview window. It
serves the same purpose as Adjust, Camera, X, Y position. To use this function select the icon then use
your cursor in the Preview window to click and drag the flame.
Rotate is a function that allows you to rotate the flame in the Preview window. It serves the same
purpose as Adjust, Camera, Rotate. To use this function select the icon then use your cursor in the
Preview window to click and drag the flame. Click and drag left to rotate counter-clockwise and click and
drag right to rotate clockwise.
Part V
Editor Window
If you don't already have Apo open go ahead and open it. Refreshing what we covered in previously we
see the tool bars across the top, the list of random flame flames generated on the left, and the Preview
window on the right which will show the first flame in the random list. You can browse through the
random list by clicking on a flame or use the arrow down key (to get past the first flame you must hit the
arrow down key twice). Go ahead and browse the list and find a flame that gets your attention. Once you
have found one that appeals to you save it using the Save icon or Ctrl S.
This is one of the most changed areas in version 203a. Those of you that have been using Apo and
the betas (including z) will be familiar with a lot of the changes.
Select the Editor icon
or use Ctrl E. This will open up the Editor window. You can stretch out the size
of the Editor by placing your cursor on the edges or corners then click and drag. This only increases the
area containing the triangles though and not the preview window in the Editor window.
1. Editor Tool Bar Menu
This tool bar is a new feature that adds easy access to functions that were previously hidden and only
usable by right clicking for submenu's.
Reset All resets all the transforms onto the reference triangle and creates a new flame. You can
use the right click menu to reset a single transform by selecting Reset Triangle.
Add makes a duplicate of the base transform that can be edited like the other transforms.
Duplicate makes a duplicate of the selected transform and places it on top of that transform.
Delete will delete the selected transform (except the base transform because it cannot be selected)
unless there are only 2 visible transforms. There are ways to create flames with only 1 transform which
we will cover later.
Undo/Redo do just that.
Select Triangle used to select another transform.
Move Triangle used to move a transform in the grid.
Rotate Triangle used to rotate a transform. Rotates based on Pivot point which will be covered
below in the Triangle tab.
Scale Triangle use to resize a transform.
Flip Horizontal flips the selected transform horizontally.
Flip Vertical flips the selected transform vertically.
Flip All Horizontal flips all the transforms horizontally.
Flip All Vertical flips all the transforms vertically.
Show/Hide Variation Preview shows a graphical representation of the transform.
You can still right click anywhere in the transform area and the menu to the left will appear which gives
you most of the same functions.
Auto Zoom (in right click menu) works the same as Reset Location
2. Editor Transform Area
on the main screen tool bar.
The transform area has had some major changes. The reference triangle is still the same, white in color
and non-editable (however, you can change this as explained later). Its position and size can be
determined by you as explained later. A major difference is the grid system. Other than visual reference
there does not seem to be any specific purpose for the grid system. One point I noted here is that the B
corner of the reference transform is the intersection of the x and y axis, located at X: 0.00 and Y: 0.00.
As before the transforms making up the flame are colored and the selected transform is solid line while
the others are dashed line. One of the major changes here is when you mouse over a transform it
becomes filled with the color of the transform and the variations in that particular transform will appear
in the bottom right hand corner.
Another improvement here is the "helpers". These are grid lines that activate when you select a
transform to edit. Depending on the function; move
, rotate
, or resize
, the number and type
of helpers will vary. Again, other than visual reference there does not seem to be any specific function
applicable.
This screen shows the new feature
Show/Hide Variation Preview. When you select the
icon this renders a graphical image of the selected transform as it appears in the flame. Visually this
may be very hard to interpret on some flames. I really recommend reading Flame Math 101 for a better
understanding of what you see and how to use it.
Returning to the left side you will notice one of the transforms is white in color. This is called the
reference transform and it cannot be edited manually. It is simply there for reference or comparison of
the other transforms. All the other transforms will be colored. At least one will be made with solid lines
and while all the others will be dashed lines. The solid transform is the current or active transform. Go
ahead and click on one of the other transforms and it will become the current one selected. Another way
to select transforms is to use the Transform [number] box below the preview window.
Left click and hold on a transform, using slow and small movements drag it to another location. As you
move the transform the flame in the Editor preview window will change with the movement. After you
release the transform the main Preview window will refresh and the changes will appear there also.
Don't worry if you don't like the change use Ctrl Z! Now lets try a bigger move. Click and drag a
transform only this time keep dragging it right out of the editor window. Oh no! It disappeared!! You
can drag a transform until you reach the limits of your screen with the cursor. It is still there you just
can't see it. If you let go of it it is still there you just cannot see it. If this happens you have two options
to bring it back into view;
1. if you don't want the change use Ctrl Z, or
2. if you want the change double click in the transform window or right click and select Auto Zoom.
Option 2 however make your transform sizes much smaller in appearance. Don't be surprised if the
orientation of the transforms change also but this will not effect the flame structure.
Lets try another method of editing now. We are still going to be working in the Editor window with the
transforms. This time click and drag on one of the little circles in the corner of any transform. Try
spreading out 2 corners so they appear to be about an inch or so apart. Now take the third corner and
move it so that it intersects the line between the first two corners. This is a trick I have learned that can
bring about some interesting results most of the time.
Previously I discussed adding transforms so now I want to mention deleting transforms. This feature is
good to evaluate the potential of a flame. Apo will not let you delete transforms if there are 2 or less
and you cannot delete the base transform. When you select a transform and then delete it you can
observe the change and see how that particular transform affects the flame. After you observe the
change simply hit Ctrl Z and the transform will return. Sometimes deleting a transform can improve the
flame, especially in dihedral symmetry flames and spiral flames.
Another method of editing a flame is to use the attributes in the tabs located in the lower right half of
the Editor window .
3. Editor Preview Screen
The preview window is still located in the upper right hand. Right clicking on the preview window will
still give you preview rendering quality settings and another Reset Location selection.
4. Editor Function Tabs
On the right side of the Editor window below the preview window is still a reference to the selected
transform and several tabs that contain editable settings for the transforms and Editor window.
Transform
is a previous function improved to help the user. It still
indicates the transform selected by number but it now also shows the transform in color for visual
reference.
are function that can be used to edit various attributes of the
Tabs
transforms and appearance of the Editor window. Each one has enough information and capabilities that
I will explain them separately.
a. Triangle Tab
At the top notice that there are two columns of boxes designated in rows
as A, B, and C. Each designator (ABC) corresponds to the corners of the
selected transform. The first column is the X axis and the second column
is the Y axis. If you click and drag a transform or a corner while watching
the numbers in the lines and you will see that moving horizontal changes
the x lines, vertical changes the y lines, and if you move it diagonally it
changes both lines. You can manually edit the numbers to adjust the
flame. I generally save this method for fine-tuning flames. Rather than
replace a whole number set I will usually start with one number to the left
or right of the decimal place and replace that number one increment at a
time going lower and higher to see what effects they have on the flame. I
will also change the number from positive to negative or vice versa to
evaluate the effect.
Rotate
will rotate the selected transform.
Experimenting with this I found the 45° arrows rotate the selected
transform in degrees as set (e.g. 15 in the image) and the 90° arrows
move the selected transform 45° cw or ccw.
Move
moves the selected transform in the
direction clicked on. I found 0.1 to be equal to one square in the grid
while 1 equals 10 squares in the grid.
resizes the selected transform. I
Resize
discovered this is based on a percentage. With that in mind you must
understand that each transform starts at or is based at 100%. You will
notice that the value is a drop down selection and that the values start at
105. The value indicated in the image (110) means that clicking the left
triangle decreases size by 10% and clicking the right triangle increases
size by 10%
Pivot point
. allows you to pick a specific
point of the transform to rotate on. Center will place a point (white dot) in
the center of the transform and rotation will occur on that point. 0,0
rotates the entire transform in a 360° circle.
b. Editor Transform Tab
Select the Transform tab so that it is layered on top.
Notice that there are several boxes beginning with x, y, and 0. Each box
(or set of boxes) correspond to the selected transform.
The first column is related to horizontal movement and the second column
is related to vertical movement, and both columns related to diagonal
movement.
x/0 are related to movement of the A corner,
y/0 is related to movement of the C corner, and
x/y/0 related to movement of the B corner.
Rectangular seems to place the numbering system based on the grid
pattern while Polar sets them to degrees.
Changing the Weight of the selected Transform will adjust the denseness
of the transform as it appears in the flame. Weight is on a scale of 0 to
0.99.
Changing the Symmetry of the selected Transform will adjust the the
gradient applied to that transform. The effect is equal to using Saturation.
Symmetry is on a scale of 0 to 1.
Reset Coefs will reset the selected transform over the reference transform.
c. Editor Variation Tab
You can also adjust or even add a variation from the Editor window. Click
on the Variation tab (in the original 2.0 version the variations were put in
2 tabs for space reasons) to layer it on top. You will see that there is a
group of variations listed in the same manner as the Variation menu in the
tool bar above.
Variations that were used in the random generation of the flame will have
a value in the column to the right.
You can adjust the amount of influence a particular variation has on the
flame by editing the value or you can add a variation by entering a value
next to it.
d. Editor Variables Tab
This is a new function. It only applies to certain variations at this point,
blob, fan2, pdj, and rings2.
the blob _low and _high basically seem to tighten the flame up at least
where that variation has influence on the flame. -waves increases or
decreases the arc of the "blobs" which to me really look kind of like daisy's.
for fan2 and pdj the variables seem to be another method of editing the
transform (and therefore the flame) without actually moving the transform.
For rings2 there was a remarkable difference with the changing of values
(in whole numbers anyway). Changes increased/decreased the mass of
the flame and increased/decreased the number of "rings" in the flame.
e. Editor Colors Tab
Transform Color effects the gradient color of the selected transform.
You can use the slide bar to change the color or enter a number from 0-1.
Graph:
Use transform color it will cause the mouse over fill for the transforms to
be the same color in the Transform color window.
Enable helpers will cause the grid reference lines (helper lines) appear
when you use the mouse to move a transform.
Each of the following will offer a color palette when selected:
Background color will allow you to change the background color of the
transform area.
Grid colors allows you to change the grid reference lines. The first
window changes the color of the grid cross hair (intersection of x 0.00 and
y 0.00) and the second window will change the color of x and y grid
reference lines.
Helper colors allows you to change the color of the grid reference lines
that appear when you use the mouse to move a transform or one of its
corners.
Reference triangle allows you to change the color of the reference
transform.
Part VI
Adjust Window
The Adjust window has been consolidated into several functions. Clicking on any of these,
Adjust,
Gradient, or
Image Size will open the Adjust window and to the tab for the function selected. Note
that Camera and Rendering do not have an icon or place in the menu tool bar. These are the original
functions under Adjust in previous versions. When Adjust is opened then you have a preview screen and
4 tabs for Camera, Rendering, Gradient, and Image size. Camera and Rendering used to be the functions
in the previous Adjust window. Settings in each area can dramatically change the way a flame appears.
Any changes made in the Adjustment window override the Option settings as they apply to that flame.
The best way to learn how they can help you is to go in there and use them. I have found you should
note what the setting is to the right of each slide bar as you change and adjust. A lot of times it can be
hard to decide where you were even with Ctrl Z so you take a chance on losing what you had before.
a. Camera
At the top we have a preview window that refreshes to the changes made in the Adjust window. These
changes will also refresh to the main Preview screen. Changes made effect only the flame in the preview
windows. If you wish to keep the changes you must save the flame.
Zoom zooms out to the left and in to the right. Zooming in increases the refresh and rendering times
exponentially.
X moves the flame horizontally and Y moves the flame vertically.
Rotation rotates the flame in the preview window. You may notice it moves the entire viewing area but
when it refreshes it will return to normal with the flame rotated.
Any of these functions can be manually edited to the right of each bar also.
b. Rendering
Gamma is used to remove “noise” and somewhat sharpen the flame.
Brightness is just that. It reduces or raises the amount Of light in the flame.
Vibrancy is basically the same as brightness but on a finer scale.
Background Color changes the background of the Preview window and the image file when rendered.
Changing the background color has the same, if not greater impact, on the flame as changing the
gradient does. You will find that a lot of the gradients in the flame will fade with a different color on the
background because you are introducing more light into the image.
c. Gradient
In the top half we have and expanded view of the current gradient and colors in that gradient. If you
double click on the expanded gradient it will "randomize" the gradient using various colors, single or
multiple.
Note this is not a random view of gradients available in Apo.
To continue viewing random gradients colors continue double clicking. I originally thought this
randomizing was connected to the current gradient but it is not. Regardless, this is a good feature to
help determine gradient colors for a flame. I especially like some of the "neon" glow colors you can get
with this feature. This is also a good method to get single solid colors for a flame.
If you right click in the expanded view of the gradient you will get a menu of functions available in the
Gradient window.
Randomize applies random colors as a gradient.
Invert and Reverse do just that on the current gradient.
Smooth Palette is used to convert any picture into a gradient.
Gradient Browser is used to retrieve gradients files.
Save Gradient used to save randomized gradients or gradients you made using the Smooth Palette
function.
Save as Default will use a gradient you select for all random flames.
Copy and
Paste functions are also available here.
In the middle is a slide bar
which rolls the
gradient color bars through the flame. To make gradual changes and see the different effects I have
found it is easier to move the slider over by clicking on the open part of the bar. This will move the
slider over in approximately ¼ inch increments and then you can evaluate and fine tune from there.
Clicking on the word Rotate will provide an additional drop down menu. In this menu you will find typical
digital tools for adjusting colors; Hue, Saturation, Brightness, Contrast, Blur, and Frequency. The slide
bar controls each adjustment as it is selected. I have found the two most useful selections here to be
Saturation and Frequency.
Note that the selection will not return to Rotate by default.
On the bottom left is a drop down menu
of the gradients
that come with Apo by default. With this new version the gradients available have been numbered and
named. The drop down now indicates the gradient that is selected and used in the flame. You can click
on Preset and this will randomly select and apply a gradient from the gradient files in Apo.
On the lower right side
are icons for
Copy,
Paste,
Smooth Palette functions.
Gradient browser, and
Gradient browser is used to located and open other gradient files. With this new version you are
now able to mouse over the gradient file name and it will show an image of what the gradient looks like.
Smooth Palette is used to make gradients. Select the the Smooth Palette icon. This will open a
typical browser window. Browse your files and find a picture you like with lots of color. Once you find
one click on it and select Open. That will execute the function and make a gradient from the picture. It
will also automatically apply the gradient to the flame. If you wish to save the gradient right click on it
and select Save Gradient. Go ahead and do so remembering it will default to the smooth.ugr file unless
you tell it otherwise.
Go ahead and use the drop down to select another gradient from the list. You will notice how it changes
the color of the flame and most likely the density in some areas. This is where you will also notice it can
appear to change the shape of the flame also. Go ahead and click on "Rotate" and play with some of the
other gradient adjustments.
By default the gradients included with Apo are kept in cmap.ugr. Any gradients added using the Smooth
Palette function in the Gradient window are placed in smooth.ugr unless specified otherwise. You can
also locate many user made gradients on the Internet available for download. If you start collecting a lot
of gradients I would recommend creating a folder in the main Apo folder for them. You can download
gradient packs offered by other users and save them to your Gradient folder then use the browser
function to open them up and go through them. When using this feature there is a separate gradient
viewer in the browser window. To apply the gradient to the flame you must double click the gradient file
or hit Enter when the file is highlighted. 70 or so gradient choices by default in Apo. There are also
some .map gradients which work with UF. Just change the file type in the browser window.
d. Image Size
This is a very good tool if you like to render images in non standard width and height. While this is not a
new feature it was previously only available in the View menu or by using Ctrl I. This makes it more
accessible and added some useful items such as the Presets. Image size changes the size of the flame
(and the Apo program window) displayed on your screen. It will also default the selected sizes to the
rendering window in render to Disk and Export Flame. To use the Presets, select the width and height
you wish to use, then select Set for the line where you want to save the width and height. In the image
above I have 3 presets. To use the preset just click on the size.
Going ahead and fool around a bit and get a feel for how each function affects the flame. Be careful here
because a little bit of slide can go a long way! Don't forget Ctrl Z can undo any changes you don't like
and when you close the Adjust window and return to the main screen. Also remember to Save/Ctrl S or
any adjustments you made and want to keep will be lost.
Part VII
Scripts
There are numerous scripts that come with Apo and each vary as to how it effects a flame. As a refresher
I will cover the Script menu again here. Your drop down menu will differ slightly the first time you use it
because I have 2 favorites listed at the bottom of my menu.
1. Using Scripts
Run or F8:
Is used to run/start the script titled in the quotes.
“Default Animation” is the default script that loads when Apo is opened
and when the Script menu is selected.
Stop or Ctrl H:
Stops the script that is currently running.
Open: This opens the browser and allows you to select a script from
the Script folder (default Apo folder). Once a script is selected it’s title
will appear in the quotes in the Run command.
Edit or Ctrl D:
Opens a editor window with the current script
loaded in text format. This can be used to edit scripts or to paste and
save new ones.
Manage Favorites: This allows you easy access to scripts you use
often. It places them at the bottom of the Script menu below Manage
Favorites so you can click and run. This function also assigns a hot key
short cut to the script. As you can see I have 2 scripts as my favorites
starting with Make Bilateral with Ctrl F1 as the hot key short cut.
To use a script you must use the Script menu by selecting Script, Open. This opens a file browser window
that should be at the Apo Script folder since that is the default browser setting. Most script names are
done in a manner that gives you an idea of what they do. This is just a short list of the type and
description of scripts available. There are numerous ones available for download and you can write your
own also.
2. Types of Scripts
Batch scripts generally effect the whole list of random flames and not just the flame you are viewing.
There are some batch scripts which are used to render images also. If you run a batch script for
rendering make sure the path in the script file points to a file folder location on your computer. I will
cover this below.
Animation scripts generally only effect the flame you are viewing.
Note that when you run then stop an animation script the flame in the main Preview window will
refresh to the last sequence shown of the animation. Be sure to save the flame before you run the
animation.
When you run an animation script it will open another preview window and the current flame will perform
the animation. There are some scripts also for rendering animation which render a specified number of
frames of the animation so that they can be used to save as a animation file and viewed in programs
such as Windows Media Player. If you want to return to the pre-script flame the only realistic way to do it
is to click on another flame in the list then click back on the flame you were working with. That is why it
is important to save the flame before running a animation script!
Spiral scripts will generate a number of transforms just as we did above. There are numerous spiral
scripts available for download each varying in number of transforms generated, and their size and
rotation. Again, save the flame before you run the script!
Scripts that don't indicate "batch" or "animation" in the title usually perform the script function on the
flame in the Preview window. If you don't like the changes you can use Ctrl Z but you must do it twice,
once for the execution of the script and once for the changes applied to the flame. Another way to go
back to the prescript flame is to click on the next flame in the list and then click back on the flame you
were working on.
Go ahead and select a script and Run
it . Once you click Run the Stop icon (black square) becomes
active. When the script is done if you do not like the changes you can use Undo or Ctrl Z but you have to
do it twice. Once is for the execution of the script and once is for the actual change of the flame.
A well written script will have a statement at the beginning that describes what the script does. If you
want to see these then select Script, Edit/Ctrl D, or select the Script Edit icon
. This will open up the
script in the Script Editor window and allow you to read or edit the current script or browse for others. If
you are not familiar with scripts anything in {} or following // are editor notes. A good script writer will
use these notes to describe the action being taken for each part of the script. Although to someone who
does not know script these notes may seem brief and cryptic. If a script is posted in a manner that you
need to copy and paste it, the Editor window is where you would do this. Just use the Script Edit window
and follow the same steps you would use to save a file in a word processing program or in notepad.
Note that Ctrl C and Ctrl V will not work with the script editor, you must use Copy and Paste icons or
right click.
Almost every batch script for rendering images will have a path to the drive and folder defined in the
script where the file will be saved, usually toward the bottom. Be sure to go in and change the path or
make the appropriate folder on you drive before you run the script. One of the most common errors in
running a script is because the path is not correct or does not exist. This is an error that will not give you
and Stop
icons will blank out and you will have to close and
an error window either. The Run
reopen Apo before you can run any more scripts.
3. Creating and Editing Script
On the left side is the viewing and editing window. Note the lines of text are numbered. Most of the
time if you run a script and receive an error message it will give you the line number where the error
occurred and a general reference to the problem.
On the right side are some icons that should be familiar by now. The first is for a New Page, then there
is Open, Save, Run, Stop, and Break.
Apo users updating and creating new scripts usually making them available for download. Check the links
section of The Fractal Farm for some script downloads and script writing tutorials. If you are familiar with
script language you can edit and even write them yourself. If you haven't already done so go ahead and
jump in there and run some scripts.
Part VIII
Mutation Window
Click on the Mutation
icon. When it opens up note that the duplicate of the current flame is in the
center of the windows. The surrounding previews are all mutations of the current flame and give you an
idea for the possibilities that this flame has.
Speed adjusts the weight applied to the flame, it is not the speed in which the mutations render. It also
controls how close the mutations resemble the flame in the center.
Trend is used to control the type of variation(s) used in the mutations.
Same no. of Transforms if checked will only give mutations which have the same number of
transforms as the original flame. If unchecked then the numbers vary (2-12).
If you click on the center flame it will refresh the mutations surrounding the center giving you a new
series to look at. This will also refresh the main Preview window to that mutation.
Part IX
Options
There are several areas to cover here. Each having it's own tab in the Options window. One thing to
remember is that a lot of these options are also located in the menu's. Please note that selections in the
menu area will override these defaults and apply them only to the current flame. Changes will return to
default if you open and close the flame without saving it first, or save and move onto another flame.
1. General Options Tab
PNG Transparency allows selection of several
options for rendering flames without a background.
No transparency forces a background onto a png
image.
flam-3 forces a transparent background style
worked as normal. Flamesong style I had
problems with because it almost rendered the
flame transparent also.
Fixed Reference Triangle allows the user to
select one of several options for viewing the
reference transform in the Editor window. Normal
shows the reference transform as a typical right
triangle. X and Y meet at 0.00 and the reference
transform will be in the upper right quadrant.
JPEG Quality adjusts the amount of compression
Proportional shows the reference transform in
used when saving the file which increases or
proportion and size to the rest of the transforms. X
reduces the quality of the image. If you are
and Y meet at 0.00 and the reference transform
rendering for printing then I really recommend you
will be in the upper right quadrant. Wandering
use 100.
shows the reference transform in any position and
Batch Size sets the number of random flames
generated when you open Apo or use Ctrl B. If you
have browsed the list looking at the random flames
you know 100 is a lot!
Nr processors is used to render using hyper
thread technology. I had a chance to do the test
runs for this feature and a setting of 2 (for dual
core processor) decreased rendering time by 25%.
Settings of 4 and 8 offered no improvement over
that. I assume if you have 2 or more processors
then it would improve rendering time.
proportion.
Confirm delete is equivalent to the Windows “Are
you sure” prompt. Leaving it checked will prompt
you to confirm you want to delete a flame.
Resize on load if this option is checked when a
previously saved flame is opened it will open or
reset the Apo main screen to the size of the flame
when saved.
Show Transparency if this option is checked
when flames are randomly generated they will not
have a background. To use it select it then use Ctrl
B to generate a new random batch. The
background will appear as white and gray checker
board. Note that you cannot override this by
adding a background in the Rendering tab of
Adjust.
2. Display Options Tab
Rendering It will be easier to explain these
settings as a whole. They all apply only to the
Preview windows (all of them) and not Render to
Disk or Export Flame. Use the Adjust menu to
change individual flames for Render or Export.
However, if you do not Save the changes you make
using the Adjust menu the next time you open the
flame the values will be set at the default values
here.
Preview Density allows you to preset the levels
for each of the quality options here. Once set when
you right click in the preview window and select
one of the quality options it defaults to the value
set here.
3. Random Options Tab
Number of transforms: Minimum - Maximum
This is the minimum and/or maximum transforms
used by the Random Batch function when opening
Apo or using Ctrl B
Mutation Transforms:
Minimum - Maximum This is the minimum and/
or maximum transforms used by in the Mutation
Flame title prefix specifies the file name used by window but the number used will also be equal or
the Random Batch function. Default is Apophysis.
greater that the original flame.
The numbers will remain set by Apo.
Keep background color to use this feature you
Forced Symmetry: Type - Order This can be
must first open a flame and change the
best explained by saying that symmetry makes the background to a color you want. Then return here
flame appear to be repeated almost as if in a
and check this option. Random Batch flames will
mirror reflection. The amount is based on the Type then be created using the background color you
selected. The higher the Order the more reflection
thus the more transforms. Be sure to experiment
here! Click here to see examples of forced
symmetry flames.
selected.
4. Variations Option Tab
Use this option to preset the Variations used by the Random Batch/Ctrl B function. Having all checked
does not mean each random flame will have a portion of each variation in it. Because it is random, the
variations used could be any 1 or all. This is another area to experiment with and also in conjunction
with the Forced Symmetry functions. Take time to generate random batches using single or combination
variations. Click here to see examples of each variation.
5. Gradient Option Tab
On random flame
(affects only Random Batches)
Use random preset this option uses any one of
the gradients available in the Gradient window drop
down list.
Use default to use this option you must first have
the gradient that you wish to be the default
gradient displayed in the window. Once you have
done this then right-click and select Save as
Default. That will then use this gradient on any
flame produced.
Use current use the gradient in the window as
the default gradient for any flames generated after
this option is checked.
Randomize same as Random preset only it use
random (Randomize) gradients. See Minimum and
Maximum nodes also.
Smooth palette:
Number of tries: low number is 1
Try length: low number is 100
Randomize:
Minimum and Maximum number of nodes this
option changes how the Randomize gradients are
made. A "node" is basically a vertical color bar in a
gradient. Default settings are 2 and 6 meaning
Randomize will only create gradients with a
minimum of 2 colors (nodes) or a maximum of 6
colors.
Hue, Saturation, and Luminance these are
ranges for each of these areas. I really don’t know
enough about these areas to make a learned
selection but from experience I recommend that
the Hue, Saturation, and Luminance be left at full
ranges. However, as you probably have realized by
now, what is good for one flame may not be good
for another.
Number of try's or resample used when making a
gradient using the Smooth Palette option in the
Gradient window. The higher the numbers the
fewer and more spread out the nodes are.
6. UPR Option Tab
These settings all apply to how a flame is exported to Ultra Fractal. The parameters exported from Apo
to UF are UPRs. Often the terminology of parameters and UPR are mixed up even though in Apo they
are two different things.
These settings apply the same as they would in
Apo.
Parameter defaults
Sample density:
Filter Radius:
Oversample:
UPR Size
Width:
Height:
Coloring Algorithm These can change
occasionally and are usually announced through
the mailing lists for both programs. Usually you
have to update it manually.
Identifier:
File:
Fractal formula
Identifier:
File:
Adjust sample density leaving this checked will
allow Apo to determine the best quality when
exported to UF.
7. Paths Option Tab
This is where you set the path to the files used and saved in Apo. You do not need to change the
default values unless you reconfigured the Apo folders. Miscellaneous operating files are stored in the
main folder. Using the browser functions within the program windows override the default settings. Each
area has a browser option on the right side to help find the file and ensure the mapping is written
correctly.
Default parameter file can be specified here but the Save function defaults to the Parameter folder
and the MyFlames.flame file within it.
Smooth palette file defaults to the smooth.ugr file unless changed in the Gradient window browser. If
you collect and download gradients I recommend you establish a gradient folder in the main Apo folder
and reset the default here.
Function library defaults to the functions script located in the Scripts folder. This script is important to
Apo functions and should be mapped correctly. There is no override in the menus.
Export render defaults to the hqi.exe file or the flam3.exe file if you have updated. If you download a
new version of flam3 you must come in here and make sure the path is set.
Part XI
Final Reminders and Tips
We have covered a lot and hopefully you learned a lot. One thing I hope you learned is there is no
standard method or formula to make a great flame. Go forward with the knowledge of the program and
it's functions and follow your heart and imagination. That is what it really takes to make a great flame
fractal.
Advanced Transform/Flame Tweaking
There are also some set symmetry patterns for flames. Basically they are bilateral, rotational, and
dihedral. Spiral is also a symmetry but unlike the other three there is no specific settings in the Options
menu for it. Any of the symmetries can be achieved automatically through settings and scripts but I am
going to show you how to do one manually and Scripts and Options will be discussed later. I'll walk you
through making a basic spiral flame and that should head you in the right direction for producing other
great effects with your flames using the Editor window.
1.
1. Select any flame from a random batch.
2.
3.
2. Right click on the Editor window and select Add. In case you didn't remember this makes a
duplicate transform of the reference transform.
1. 3. Click on the Variation tabs in the Editor window and make sure that the only variation used is
linear and it is set to 1.
2.
3. 4. Now we want to rotate that transform clockwise (cw) or counter-clockwise (ccw).
4.
1. To rotate it cw press and hold Alt then click on the transform twice (Alt hold + left click), to
rotate it ccw press and hold Ctrl and Alt then click on the transform twice (Ctrl and Alt hold
+ left click).
6.
7. 5. Repeat step 2, then 4 rotating the new transform in the same direction as the first one.
8.
9. 6. Now we want to decrease or increase the size of the second transform.
❍
❍
To decrease the size press and hold Shift then click the transform twice (Shift hold + left
click),
to increase the size press and hold Ctrl and Shift then click on the transform twice (Ctrl and
Shift hold + left click).
7. Now repeat steps 2 through 6. Move the new transform in the same direction as before
and decrease or increase the size as before. Only this time click on the transform 4 times.
By now you have seen a spiral flame appear in the Preview window and we have established the pattern
for making it. You can add as many transforms as you wish (up to 12 anyway), rotate cw or ccw, and
increase or decrease size as you wish. As you use Apo more, start studying the transform patterns of the
flames you like. This same method can also be used to create symmetry flames also such as Bilateral,
Rotational, and Dihedral Manually doing it leaves a lot of room for creativity as you do it.
Take some time to browse through some of the random flames and practice some of the editing
techniques we just discussed. Be sure to try moving whole transforms, corners of transforms, add and/or
duplicate transforms, and change settings in various tabs.
Saving Parameters, I don’t know how many times I can emphasize save, and do it often.
When you have created a flame and you decide to keep it, post it, print it, whatever, be sure
to save a copy of the .flame file or parameter file in a separate folder from the one you work
in. I lost one of my very first flames learning this lesson.
Rendering and Exporting Images
Render to Disk function is a good method if you are doing a quickie to post to the web. This
method usually will not support rendering really large flames in pixel or file size.
● Export Flame function is the better (really!) of the two. It is faster and it uses less computer
assets such as processor and memory. For better quality and printing purposes the files need to be
much larger than normal so this makes export the better option. It requires the hqi.exe file at a
minimum (comes with Apo program) or the most current version of it which is now referred to as
flam3.
●
Transparent Backgrounds
If you wish to render or export a flame with a transparent background so you can add your own
background or superimpose (layer) it on another image then;
When you render or export your image use the PNG file extension. (that simple!)
In some viewers (IrfanView) it will still appear to have a background but It does not. When you
open it in PS or PSP it will not have a background.
●
●
Note: When you render a flame with no background do not expect to see what you see on the
screen. This goes back to basic art where black is the absence of light so it makes the colors of the
flame appear deeper and richer. You can use the Adjust window to change the current background
to white (simulate transparent) or a color you may use as a background using a post work
program to get an idea what it will look like. There is also a script called rotatebackground.asc that
will rotate the background color a preview window.
●
Image Sizes
These sizes are based on landscape orientation, for portrait orientation simply reverse the w x h.
w x h in
inches
3.5x5
4x6
150 dpi
300 dpi
525x750
600x900
1050x1500
1200x1800
8.5x11
1275x1650 2550x3300
16X20
20X30
24x36
30x40
2400x3000
3000x4500
3600x5400
4500x6000
4800X6000
6000x9000
7200x10800
9000x12000
Copying and Posting Parameters When you come across a parameter file someone has posted for
use here is what you need to do to view it:
1. 1. Block and copy the parameters starting with <flame name…> and ending at the bottom with </
flame>. To copy it is best to use Ctrl C here.
2. If Apo is not already open go ahead and do so. If it is open then select A flame you are not
concerned with if it gets lost in the process.
3. Once you are at the main screen and a random flame is in the Preview window go ahead and key
stroke Ctrl V.
4. You will not see any “parameters” pasted anywhere. What you will see is the refresh times at the
bottom start rolling and then when they are done the flame posted in the parameters will be in the
Preview window.
5. If you want to keep the flame, select Save and save it named and located where you wish.
6. If you need to go back to the flame that was there before you pasted this one then select another
flame from the list on the left then reselect the one you was originally working on.
1.
Apo in Ultra Fractal Tips
Layer an Apo flame over a UF fractal:
●
●
• Open a new window in UF. Use default or any formula will do.
• Paste your flame into that window.
• Now, to paste the flame into your UF background layer you Will NOT copy from the image
window.
• You will copy from the Fractal Properties window.
• Right click on the flame layer in the properties box and in the window that opens, click on copy.
• Open the window to your background layers.
• UF will paste above whichever layer you select. You can move the flame layer around later.
• Right click on the layer selected in the Properties window, and click Paste.
Things to remember:
You may need to make the background transparent on the flame layer for the background to show
up well if you paste to the top.
Only certain merge modes work well with flames. Experiment for the effect you want.
If you place a flame on the bottom you may need to make the black or other colors transparent on
ascending layers for the flame to show through.
Boost the sample density of the flame for a more solid effect.
Update formulas often!
To paste a flame to UF for post work or rendering then:
●
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
open Apophysis.
click on Options>> options (or Ctrl+P)
click on the UPR tab
in the right hand section you will see: Coloring algorithm.
change Identifier into: sdc+enr-flame-a
change File into: sdc.ucl
Open UF and create your image or open the UPR on which you want to add your Apo flame.
Open in UF another new fractal (Ctrl+N); it does not matter what kind of formula combination.
Open Apo and create your flame. If finished press Ctrl+U (Edit>>Copy as UPR)
Paste this Apo flame in your new created fractal in UF.
If it is correct there are 2 images in UF:
5a) the single layer Apo flame and your finished image in which you Want to add a flame.
Right click on the flame layer; a pop-up appears and choice for Copy (or Shift+Alt+C)
Right click on the top layer from your finished image and Paste (or Shift+Alt+V)
Now your Apo flame layer is added to your finished image in UF.
Save it as an UPR in your personal UPR collection in UF.
After that you can share and send that new UPR to the UF-list
Copyright 2005 latcarf productions, Lance Hall. All Rights Reserved.

Beginning Apophysis 101 ~ v203a, Tutorial Index

Transcription

Similar documents

shrinkfast® 998 gas gun

Apophysis Tutorial for Beginners

The Color of Jasper Highlands... In Case You

Apophysis Tutorial – PDF

Pioneering Oxy-Gasoline Cutting Systems

fireplace

Subject: New Enhanced Honeywell Electronic Ignition Controller

Apophysis The Basics

celtec® graphic display materials flametec™ fire

Summer 2016 - Blue Flame Credit Union