How to 3D Photoscan Easy and Free!

CG Geek

CG Geek

34 min, 50 sec

A comprehensive guide on how to perform 3D photo scanning using free, open-source software.

Summary

  • The video demonstrates how to start photo scanning for free using a camera (a smartphone camera works well) and a computer.
  • The software used in this process is Meshroom, an open-source photogrammetry software that allows for 3D reconstruction at no cost.
  • The tutorial covers the process from taking photos of an object in nature to processing them on the computer and uploading the final 3D model to Sketchfab.
  • Several tips are provided for taking effective photos, setting up camera settings manually, and choosing objects that photo scan well.
  • The guide also offers post-processing advice in Blender to enhance the 3D model and explains how to upload and present the model on Sketchfab.

Chapter 1

Introduction to Free Photo Scanning

0:00 - 16 sec

Introduction to the concept of free photo scanning using a camera and a computer.

Introduction to the concept of free photo scanning using a camera and a computer.

  • The video opens with an introduction to the topic of free photo scanning using open source software.
  • The necessary tools for the process are a camera (phone camera is sufficient) and a computer.

Chapter 2

Sponsor Acknowledgment

0:39 - 44 sec

Acknowledgment of the video's sponsor, Sketchfab.

Acknowledgment of the video's sponsor, Sketchfab.

  • The video acknowledges Sketchfab as the sponsor, highlighting its features as an online platform for sharing and buying 3D models.
  • Sketchfab's built-in render engine allows for real-time model rendering and previewing in web browsers.

Chapter 3

Introduction to Meshroom Software

1:21 - 34 sec

Introduction to Meshroom, the open-source photogrammetry software used for 3D scanning.

Introduction to Meshroom, the open-source photogrammetry software used for 3D scanning.

  • Meshroom is introduced as a user-friendly open-source photogrammetry software for 3D reconstruction.
  • The tutorial will use only free software, Meshroom and Blender, to create 3D scans.

Chapter 4

Choosing Objects and Camera Settings for Scanning

1:56 - 2 min, 24 sec

Guidance on choosing suitable objects for scanning and setting up camera settings.

Guidance on choosing suitable objects for scanning and setting up camera settings.

  • The process begins with selecting a suitable object in nature for scanning.
  • The video suggests picking objects that photo scan well, like rocks, and avoiding complex items, like ferns.
  • It is advised to shoot on overcast days to avoid harsh shadows and bright spots.
  • Manual camera settings are recommended to keep exposure and white balance consistent.

Chapter 5

Photo Shooting for 3D Scanning

4:20 - 1 min, 20 sec

Instructions for taking photos of the selected object for 3D scanning.

Instructions for taking photos of the selected object for 3D scanning.

  • The tutorial provides step-by-step instructions for taking photos of the object from various angles.
  • Emphasis is placed on taking enough photos to cover the entire object with detail.

Chapter 6

Processing Photos with Meshroom

5:41 - 5 min, 26 sec

A detailed walkthrough of processing the photos with Meshroom to create a 3D scan.

A detailed walkthrough of processing the photos with Meshroom to create a 3D scan.

  • After taking photos, the next step is to import them into Meshroom for processing.
  • Meshroom's node-based workflow is explained, and the process of creating a 3D scan is initiated with a single click.
  • The video demonstrates the progress of the scan as Meshroom processes the images.

Chapter 7

Post-Processing in Blender

11:07 - 15 min, 32 sec

Post-processing the 3D scan in Blender to enhance its quality and realism.

Post-processing the 3D scan in Blender to enhance its quality and realism.

  • The 3D scan is imported into Blender for further refinement.
  • The tutorial covers the use of decimate and smooth modifiers, setting up materials, and rendering settings.
  • Additional nature assets are added to the scene to improve realism.

Chapter 8

Uploading and Rendering on Sketchfab

26:39 - 8 min, 3 sec

Uploading the final 3D model to Sketchfab and setting up online rendering options.

Uploading the final 3D model to Sketchfab and setting up online rendering options.

  • The final part of the tutorial shows how to upload the 3D model to Sketchfab.
  • The video explains how to use Sketchfab's 3D settings to apply materials, lighting, and post-processing filters.
  • The process concludes with saving the settings and viewing the rendered model on Sketchfab.