Common mistakes when using node normal maps for 3D models include mismatched tangent space, flipped normals, low-resolution maps, and poor UV unwrapping—all causing lighting artifacts or lost detail.
- **Mismatched tangent space**: Using object space (instead of standard tangent space) leads to unnatural, skewed lighting. - **Flipped normals**: Inverted normals make surfaces look unlit or "inside-out," breaking realism. - **Low-resolution maps**: Blurry normals lose fine details (like scratches), resulting in flat models. - **Poor UV unwrapping**: Stretched/overlapping UVs create seams, distorted normals, or inconsistent detail.
Fixes: Verify tangent space settings, preview normals in the viewport to catch flips, use high-res source textures, and ensure UVs are non-overlapping/evenly spaced. Start with simple models to practice before complex assets.