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InícioFerramentas CriativasHeight Map Generator from Image
Photo converted into a grayscale height map with tonal depth

Height Map Generator from Image

Turn a photo, illustration, or prompt into an image-based grayscale height map. Shape raised or recessed depth, compare the 2D tonal map with a 3D relief preview, then download the map or export an STL mesh.

Translate Image Structure into Surface Height

Create relief maps for artwork and physical surfaces—not geographic terrain or game worlds.

Nautilus shell photograph becoming a grayscale height map and raised 3D surface

How to Create a Height Map from an Image

Generate, shape, and inspect an image-based height map in three steps.

01

Upload an Image or Start with a Prompt

Add a clear reference image, describe the relief you want, or choose a template. Keep the central subject readable so its structure can translate into layered height.

02

Generate and Adjust the Height Map

Choose Emboss or Engrave, set the relief depth, and configure a square or circular backplate with the base thickness that suits the design.

03

Preview the Surface and Export

Compare the grayscale 2D design with its 3D surface preview. Download the height-map image or export the relief as an STL mesh for a geometry workflow.

Convert Image Details into Surface Height

A useful height map describes structure, not merely color. The generator interprets the subject and creates tonal transitions that represent relative surface height. That makes a mask, shell, ornament, or texture read as a dimensional form instead of a flat black-and-white photograph. Use clear contours and controlled lighting for a more coherent result.

Create Relief
Ceramic mask shown as a color image and structured grayscale height map

Shape Raised and Recessed Height Maps

Choose Emboss when the subject should rise from the base or Engrave when the design should recess into it. Relief Depth controls how strongly the surface changes. These controls shape the digital model; they do not claim that a photograph contains measured real-world millimeter depth, so review the result visually before moving forward.

Create Relief
Mandala tiles shown as raised and recessed height-map surfaces

Compare the Grayscale Map with a 3D Surface

The 2D design view makes tonal transitions easy to inspect, while the 3D preview reveals whether those tones produce the intended high and low areas. Switch between both views to catch inverted depth, overly flat details, or abrupt transitions before downloading the map or exporting the mesh.

Create Relief
Lace pattern shown as a flat grayscale map and an angled relief surface

Download a Map or Continue with an STL Mesh

Choose the output that matches the next step. Download the grayscale image for a map-based workflow, or export STL when the project needs actual relief geometry for slicing or further 3D preparation. The two outputs represent the same surface in different ways and should not be treated as interchangeable file extensions.

Create Relief
Ocean-wave grayscale map beside a polygon relief mesh and STL badge

Height Maps for Decorative Surface Projects

Use image-based height information to explore relief artwork without drifting into terrain generation.

Relief Artwork

Translate illustrations, portraits, and ornaments into layered grayscale surface designs.

Decorative Panels

Create raised or recessed patterns for plaques, tiles, and wall decor concepts.

Texture Studies

Compare how lace, waves, and repeating patterns behave as shallow surfaces.

3D-Printed Reliefs

Export an STL mesh when the project needs geometry rather than only a grayscale map.

Explore More Depth Map and Relief Tools

Continue with the main relief workspace, a laser-specific depth map, or a shallow bas relief.

Explore More Depth Map and Relief Tools Depth Map & Relief Generator

Depth Map & Relief Generator

Open the main workspace for grayscale depth, STL relief, and full-color relief.

Explore More Depth Map and Relief Tools Depth Map for Laser Engraving

Depth Map for Laser Engraving

Prepare a grayscale depth map for a controlled laser-relief test.

Explore More Depth Map and Relief Tools Bas Relief Generator

Bas Relief Generator

Create a shallow sculpted plaque from an image or prompt.

Height Map and Relief Guides

Learn how depth images, relief geometry, engraving, and printing connect.

What Is a Depth Map? From Images to Relief

Learn how depth maps differ from grayscale photos, choose PNG or STL for your relief workflow, and turn an image into a depth map with Atomm.

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3D Laser Engraving Tutorial: From Model to Carve (2026)

3D laser engraving start to finish: turn a photo into a 3D model with AI, then carve relief across 256 gray levels or engrave inside crystal. 2026 guide.

2026/07/035682

Create a Height Map from Your Image

Generate a grayscale surface, adjust its depth, and choose an image or STL output.

Create Relief

FAQs about Height Map Generation

What is a height map generator?

It creates a grayscale image in which tonal values represent relative surface height. Atomm also lets you inspect that map as a 3D relief so you can verify which parts rise and which parts recede.

How do I create a height map from an image?

Is a height map the same as a depth map?

Is a grayscale image automatically a height map?

Can I preview the height map in 3D?

Can I export the height map as STL?

Does this tool generate terrain heightmaps?

What type of source image works best?

Turn image structure into a grayscale height map.

Create Relief