Applying a coloring algorithm

The next step in creating a fractal is to apply a Coloring Algorithm to the fractal structure. Here’s where the real fun begins!

  • Click on the Outside tab of the Layer Properties tool window.
Ultra Fractal transparent Applying a coloring algorithm
Ultra Fractal learnmore Applying a coloring algorithm
Coloring Algorithms

The default coloring algorithm is called “None” and it simply assigns a color to each pixel. Let’s load an algorithm which will give us some more creative control over the image.

Ultra Fractal browse Applying a coloring algorithm  

Click the Browse button on the Outside tab which brings up the “Select Outside Coloring Algorithm” browser.

  • Click on the Standard.ucl file in the left pane and then on the Orbit Traps algorithm in the right pane.
  • Click Open to apply this algorithm to your fractal.

Ultra Fractal newtontrap Applying a coloring algorithm

 
Ultra Fractal learnmore Applying a coloring algorithm
The Orbit Traps Coloring Algorithm

Just as on the Formula tab, there are several settings on the Outside coloring tab (Color Density, Transfer Function, Solid Color, Gradient Offset, and Repeat Gradient) which appear regardless of the algorithm chosen. The parameters below the dividing line are specific to the Orbit Traps algorithm.

  • Click on the arrow at the right of the Transfer Function setting and select Log from the drop-down list.
  • Click on the arrow at the right of the Trap Shape parameter and select Egg from the drop-down list.

Your fractal will now look like this:

Ultra Fractal newtonlines Applying a coloring algorithm

 

Ultra Fractal tip Applying a coloring algorithm
To learn more about a particular parameter, make sure the Fractal Mode tool window is visible and hover over the parameter input box with the mouse cursor.

Ultra Fractal tip Applying a coloring algorithm
There are so many options available with the Orbit Trap coloring algorithm. It would be well worth your time to work through them, observing what effect each change, and each combination of parameters, has on your image.

You may notice, now that we have selected this combination of parameters, the black lines that bisect each of the arms of the fractal. This is due to the precision of Ultra Fractal’s calculations. We can circumvent this effect by making a small adjustment on the Location tab.

  • Click on the Location tab of the Layer Properties tool window, and enter .01 in the Rotation Angle setting.

This rotates the fractal imperceptibly and eliminates the black lines.

Ultra Fractal newtonegg Applying a coloring algorithm

Next: Saving your fractal

Applying a coloring algorithm