How to Convert Pictures to Spectacular 3D Models?

Pixpro Team Pixpro Team
Apr 05, 2018

Virtual reality (VR) with 3D models is a computer-generated scenario that simulates a realistic experience. Step by step it becomes an integral part of people’s everyday lives. Now we can choose furniture by “walking” around the apartment in 3D mode, visit museums or new places just putting on a pair of glasses. Virtual reality literally makes it possible to experience anything, anywhere, anytime.

The simplest form of virtual reality is 3D image that can be explored interactively in personal computer. With IT rapidly moving forward, the creation of 3D images became possible for everyone.

Converting photos to 3D models

Photos are no longer just a 2D memory on a paper. With photographs and photogrammetry based software one can create realistic 3D models. If we have at least 3 photos taken from a different angle, we can already reconstruct the 3D model of the object.

When photos data-set is available, it is uploaded to the Pixpro software to generate 3D model. Using the software one can go from having a bunch of pictures to dense point clouds and terraformed DEM’s.

The 3D modeling process consists of 3 main steps that generates:

  • Sparse point cloud;
  • Dense point cloud;
  • DEM.
Sparse point cloud
Dense point cloud Dense point cloud
Digital Elevation Model (DEM) DEM

3D reconstruction is made natively using Pixpro photogrammetric engine. User can generate sparse point cloud, clone it and use it for DEM creation or generate more accurate dense point cloud and go from there.

With Pixpro software one can create various 3D models. Whether it’s a terrain or a building (pictures below), the creation of the 3D model remains the same.

3D model of the building 3D model of the building
3D Terrain

3D model reconstruction process

Everything begins with the essential functionality of photo manager, which provides user a quick and convenient way dealing with as many pictures as necessary. One can review, delete pictures, review sensor and/or camera data – everything in one place.

Photo manager

With customizable workflow one can simplify regular object recreation process. It can be done by choosing all settings and necessary steps needed in particular project without wasting time in a step by step operation.

Georeferencing settings and GCP’s (ground control points) are crucial for those who are looking for maximum accuracy. Pixpro provides an easy to use GCP manager for setting up point projections in order to obtain accurate georeferencing.

Orthophoto
GCP Manager

Once the point cloud is generated, user can choose the extent of it, which will be used for further operations. This can be easily done with the bounding box feature. Just select the part of the model that you need for further work.

In case of lesser quality datasets, Pixpro provides the ability to fill potential holes with various options.

And last but not least – sometimes even the most important feature – simulation tools that provide user with terrain leveling functions. Leveling can be used in a limitless number of situations. Virtually using up a stockpile of gravel, filling a hole in the ground, cutting down trees, smoothing out slopes, etc.

3D surface simulation tools

There might be cases when we want to see the object without some elements, such as pits, which are overgrown with vegetation. To remove unnecessary items, mark the wanted space with level by averaging function.

Using this feature the selected area is leveled out by bringing the average of the selected surface.

In the case of real estate, both simulation options are very valuable:

  • Level by minimizing;
  • Level by maximizing.

For instance, there is a possibility to visualize the same area with building or without (level by minimizing). It is also possible to simulate how the annex could look like (level by maximizing), where to situate it and so on.

Levelling by max point feature The object with level by maximizing function

3D models based on photogrammetry

3D models are simple to create and do not require much investment. All you needed is a good photogrammetric software, creativity and most importantly – good photos.

About the author
Pixpro Team

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