Are there tutorials which teach you to paint textures for 3d model UV maps in photoshop?

Question

Are there tutorials out there which show how to paint textures for models in photoshop with their UV maps? I already have 4 years experience with modeling in 3ds max and I'm dying to learn how to paint textures for my models. U have photoshop with me but the problem is i don't know how to start or how my textures should look like.

For example this is a model that I'd like to practice painting textures for but it is too bland:

I'm currently using plain 3ds max mental ray materials for it right now but it just looks too bland and plain and I'd like to make more stylised like the following:

Answer 1

The first thing you need to learn is UVW mapping get a complete grasp of how this works and you will start to understand how your texture maps should be structured.

This is a good tutorial that should explain all this - http://waylon-art.com/uvw_tutorial/uvwtut_01.html

Then you should try texturing, using your Photoshop skills to apply textures and paint to your model. Experimenting and practice is the key to this.

But in saying this, I would recommend practising on a simpler object just as a cube (make an awesome wooden crate) or a barrel etc.. This will help you before tackling a full mech, which will be more challenging.

Moreover, that looks to be a high-resolution model, and thus would need normal mapping, which involves creating a low resolution or game model, to which the high res information is baked onto a normal map - this is a more advanced process and equally requires a whole new level of information.

I recommend this tutorial http://wiki.polycount.com/NormalMap?action=show&redirect=Normal+Map

(also in that Wiki there are loads of other great tutorials as well as the forum its self which is a great place for feedback and inspiration)

Good luck!