How to Use the Scatter Feature

Note: This article covers the legacy Photo Mosaic Wall software. For the new PMWall, see PMWall Settings Guide.

Overview

The Scatter feature controls randomization in tile placement across color areas. Rather than placing photos in optimal positions, the software selects a percentage of available tiles and randomly chooses among them based on the scatter setting.

Scatter Settings Explained

0% Scatter:

"Will not randomize the placement of photos on the board and will place photos on the best possible location for them."

100% Scatter:

"Will completely randomize the placement of photos on the board, even if it's not the best fit for them."

How the Algorithm Works

The system assigns scoring values to both tiles on the board and imported photos:

• Each tile receives a sub-coloring score
• Each imported photo receives a corresponding sub-coloring score
• The software calculates optimal placement with minimal tile manipulation

The scatter percentage determines selection strategy:

• At 10% scatter: the software identifies the top 10% best tile positions and randomly selects one
• At 100% scatter: any random tile receives selection, with colorization and alpha effects applied

Key Insight

"A colorful photo will not be as affected by the Scatter value as a 2-3 colors photo."

Single-color or limited-palette images show more dramatic scatter effects, while multi-colored images remain less visually impacted by randomization settings.

Trade-off Principle

"The scatter value is a tradeoff between the best possible location and the randomness of placement."

Original Article

support.fotomaster.com/en-US/66000476233-843877