How to Use Photogrammetry to Convert 2D Images to 3D Models

How to Use Photogrammetry to Convert 2D Images to 3D Models

Photogrammetry has many practical uses in different fields. Some artists use photogrammetry to help create models and art that they could not typically produce without the added technology. Photogrammetry is the technology of taking measurements from photos.

Many artists begin with a drawing and then work with the technology to convert models or statues to CAD, or computer-aided design. Civil engineers use photogrammetry to help with aerial planning and topography mapping. And construction companies are using photogrammetry more often all the time to aid in site planning or erecting structures.

By taking lots of pictures of the area, one can create a 3D model that is based on those images and appear in perfect scale, thus eliminating the margin of error that comes with hand-drawn plans.

Let us explore the ways you can use photogrammetry to convert your 2D images into stunning 3D models.

Images

In the beginning modeling stages, you will need to take a lot of pictures. The type of lens that you use for the photos will be taken into account when you upload your images into your processing software. You can add your images via a folder upload, so all of the raw footage is available for the program to crawl.

Once they are uploaded, the computer will begin to analyze the images and positioning. It will look for similar pixel points and use those to assign camera locations. From here, the program will start to assign points in space to each object. After that, the program uses basic geometry to figure out distances and measurements of the various objects in the area.

Building

After the imaging steps are completed, it is time to begin building your 3D model. The first step will be connecting the three main points in your images. From these three points, a digital mesh will drop and cover all of the surrounding objects. This is one of the most critical steps to building and completing your model.

After you are satisfied with the mesh drop, it is time to move on to the final step. For the finishing touch, you will want to apply a texture over the mesh. This texture will wrap all around and over your model and give you a realistic look. This is where the images and the model meet. The final output is a stunning photo-quality image of your 3D model.

Conclusion

In short, photogrammetry is the process by which you take multiple overlapping images to create a 3D model. During the scanning process, you should be able to get the scale and measurements correct so that it becomes a real version of what the model will look like in real life. This is actually similar to how your phone takes panoramic pictures.

These are just layered, overlapping photographs that come together as one larger 2D image. The more pictures and angles you can take, the more accurate and better your 3D model will turn out.