3D Mapping

The 3D Mapping transformation maps a fractal onto a three dimensional 

shape, such as a plane or a sphere.

Once this transformation is in effect, normal zooming and panning will 

just move the 3D shape around with the fractal on it. If you want to 

zoom into the fractal as it is mapped onto the shape, use the Fractal 

Center, Fractal Magnification, and Fractal Rotation parameters.

To use the rotation and translation parameters effectively, you need to understand the left handed 

3D coordinate system used by the transformation. Here, the X axis points to the left, the Y axis 

points upwards, and the Z axis points into the screen. So, if you use a positive Z translation, the 3D 

shape will appear to move away, into the screen.

The following parameters are available:

Selects the type of 3D shape that the fractal is mapped onto.

Shape

Rotates the 3D shape around the X, Y, or Z axis. To predict the 

direction of rotation, hold up your left hand with your thumb pointing 

X Rotation

into the positive axis direction (for example, to the left for X 

Y Rotation

rotation). Your (curled) fingers now show the direction of positive 

Z Rotation

rotation around that axis.

Moves the shape around in 3D space. You always need some positive 

X Translation

Z translation to move the shape "into" the screen, otherwise you will 

Y Translation

be "inside" the shape and it won t be visible. With the plane shape, 

Z Translation

use a negative Y translation to look down upon it.

Specifies the location of the fractal as it is mapped onto the shape. 

When adding the transformation, the current coordinates will be 

used (remember to reset the location to get a proper view of the 3D 

shape). 

Fractal Center

Fractal Magnification

Fractal Rotation

The easiest way to specify a location is to copy the coordinates from 

the Location tab of a different fractal window that contains the same 

fractal formula without the 3D Mapping transformation.

See Also

Tutorial: Learning about transformations

Standard transformations

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