How to 3D Scan an Object: Two Powerful Methods
3D scanning can turn real-world items into virtual models! This guide will show you how to capture 3D scans of an item using just your smartphone.
What is 3D scanning?
Before we jump into the step-by-step guide for creating precise 3D models of real-world items, let’s briefly cover the basics. What exactly is 3D scanning?
According to the University of Maryland, 3D scanning can be defined as follows.
"A 3D scanner takes non-destructive measurements of a target object to digitally reconstruct its shape and in some cases texture. A 3D scanner outputs a point cloud, or a series of points in 3D space, that correspond to the surface of the target object. Further post processing can turn this point cloud into a mesh, or a digital surface composed of triangles. Computer assisted design (CAD) software can import this mesh for use in further design and slicing software can turn this mesh into gcode for 3D printing."
In simpler terms, 3D scanning involves creating an accurate digital representation of a three-dimensional object. This object can be almost anything, such as:
- a mug,
- a knife,
- a sword,
- a handgun,
- a coin,
- a banknote,
- a chair,
- a helmet,
- a car,
- a room or even
- a person
What is 3D scanning used for?
3D scanning can be a tedious, lengthy, and challenging process, so why would you want a precise digital copy of a 3D object?
This innovative technology has many uses. With a 3D scan, you can easily modify the object in a 3D modeling program, use it in a game or animated movie, create a 3D print of it and more.
Here are some possible use cases for 3D scanning to illustrate its potential:
- Product design: Product engineers often create rough prototypes that can be 3D scanned and then refined digitally.
- Architecture and landscaping: Rooms, entire buildings, and landscapes are often 3D scanned, allowing architects and landscapers to plan digitally.
- Animation and game design: Capturing real-life objects helps animators and game designers create more realistic 3D models. In high-budget projects, weapons, armor, and other real-life objects are 3D scanned for a more realistic appearance.
- Scientific purposes: 3D scanning is used in various scientific fields. For example, it can create a precise digital copy of an ancient artifact or a mummified body.
- Criminology: 3D scanning technology can recreate a human face from a skull scan, a technique frequently used in forensic pathology and criminology.
The list could go on, since the applications of 3D scanning are so vast and diverse, spanning many different disciplines.
A great example is Lucas Tom Knepper, better known as Tinynocky, a well-known 3D artist and YouTuber. Tinynocky struggled with sculpting heads due to his limited knowledge of facial anatomy. To overcome this, he challenged himself to sculpt a face every day for 100 days. The final results can be seen in this video.
How to 3D scan an object
When it comes to 3D scanning, you have four different options. Think about your needs and budget to choose the best one.
- Using a smartphone: If you want a quick and fairly accurate 3D scan, there are free and paid apps for that. Some of these apps use the LiDAR sensor available in newer smartphones, while others just use the camera (photogrammetry).
- 3D modeling: If you need an accurate 3D model of a relatively simple object, you can measure it and recreate it in any 3D modeling software. Although this is not technically 3D scanning, it gives you an accurate 3D model without needing any special scanning tools.
- Using a commercial 3D scanner: Many commercial 3D scanners can be easily used with a Mac or PC and are reasonably priced. However, these lower-end scanners often struggle with finer details and can be more difficult to operate. They also tend to have trouble scanning darker objects, like a black helmet or a darker-toned weapon.
- Using a professional 3D scanner: Professional 3D scanners are much easier to use and can capture even the finest details. They are intended for professional use and come with a higher price tag.
In the following paragraph, we will go over the most accessible method for 3D scanning.
- Download a 3D scanning app that works well with your smartphone. Here are a few highly rated options:
- Android:
- iOS:
- Ensure even lighting on your object. Avoid harsh shadows, as they can complicate 3D scanning.
- For best results, use an LED lamp in a windowless room, and if possible, a softbox for even lighting.
- Prop your object above the table’s surface using a glass or even an empty toilet roll tube.
- If your object has dark or reflective areas, spray paint or cover it with another material. Otherwise, 3D scanning will be challenging. A simple and affordable solution is to use sidewalk chalk to cover the problematic areas.
- For most apps, it is recommended to take multiple photos from different angles. Using a turntable is an option, but it may be challenging to create realistic 3D scans with that method.
- Avoid using solid backgrounds, as they make stitching the objects together more difficult for the app.
- Typically, it takes 50-250 photos for an app to create a 3D model.
- Many apps allow you to set the file type and quality as well.
- Once the app is done with processing, you can export the final result!
Use the right reference images and/or 3D scans
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