Gumroad From Photo To 3D Model. Photogrammetry Tutorial Series

How to Create 3D Models from Photos Using Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry is a technique that allows you to create realistic 3D models from photos. It works by taking multiple images of an object from different angles and then using software to stitch them together and generate a 3D mesh. Photogrammetry can be used for various purposes, such as digital art, game development, archaeology, and more.

In this tutorial series, I will show you how to use Gumroad, a platform that allows you to sell your digital products online, to create and share your own photogrammetry projects. You will learn how to:

Choose the best camera and settings for photogrammetry

Capture photos of an object in a suitable environment

Process the photos using a free software called Meshroom

Edit and optimize the 3D model using Blender

Upload and sell your 3D model on Gumroad

By the end of this series, you will have a solid understanding of the basics of photogrammetry and how to use Gumroad to monetize your 3D models. Let's get started!Part 1: Choosing the Best Camera and Settings for Photogrammetry

The first step in photogrammetry is to capture photos of the object you want to model. The quality and quantity of the photos will affect the accuracy and detail of the 3D model, so it is important to choose the best camera and settings for your project.

Here are some tips to help you choose the right camera and settings for photogrammetry:

Use a camera that has a high resolution and a good lens. A DSLR or a mirrorless camera is ideal, but you can also use a smartphone or a compact camera if they have enough megapixels and a decent lens.

Avoid using zoom or digital zoom, as they can introduce distortion and noise to the photos. Instead, use a fixed focal length or a prime lens, and move closer or farther from the object to adjust the framing.

Set the camera to manual mode and adjust the exposure settings (aperture, shutter speed, and ISO) according to the lighting conditions. You want to have a balanced exposure that is not too bright or too dark, and avoid overexposure or underexposure.

Use a tripod or a stable surface to hold the camera steady and avoid blurry photos. You can also use a remote shutter or a timer to minimize camera shake.

Turn off the flash, as it can create harsh shadows and reflections on the object. Use natural or artificial light sources that are soft and diffuse, and avoid direct sunlight or spotlights.

Once you have chosen the best camera and settings for photogrammetry, you are ready to capture photos of your object. In the next part of this tutorial series, I will show you how to do that in a suitable environment.Part 2: Capturing Photos of an Object in a Suitable Environment

The next step in photogrammetry is to capture photos of the object you want to model in a suitable environment. The environment will affect the quality and detail of the 3D model, so it is important to choose a location and a background that are optimal for your project.

Here are some tips to help you capture photos of an object in a suitable environment for photogrammetry:

Choose an object that has a lot of texture and detail, and avoid objects that are shiny, transparent, or uniform in color. These types of objects are hard to reconstruct in 3D, as they do not have enough features for the software to match the photos.

Choose a location that has enough space and light for you to move around the object and take photos from different angles. You want to cover as much of the object as possible, and avoid occlusions or gaps in the photos.

Choose a background that is simple and contrastive to the object. You want to avoid backgrounds that are cluttered, busy, or similar in color or texture to the object. These types of backgrounds can confuse the software and create errors in the 3D model.

Use markers or reference points on the object or the background to help the software align the photos. You can use stickers, tape, or chalk to create markers on the object or the background, and make sure they are visible and consistent in all the photos.

Once you have chosen an object and an environment that are suitable for photogrammetry, you are ready to take photos of your object. In the next part of this tutorial series, I will show you how to do that using a simple technique called circular photography.

Part 3: Taking Photos of an Object Using Circular Photography

The final step in photogrammetry is to take photos of the object you want to model using a technique called circular photography. Circular photography is a method that involves taking photos of an object from different angles by moving around it in a circular motion. It is one of the easiest and most common techniques for photogrammetry, as it allows you to capture a lot of photos quickly and easily.

Here are some tips to help you take photos of an object using circular photography for photogrammetry:

Place the object on a flat surface or a pedestal that is stable and does not move. You can also use a turntable or a lazy susan to rotate the object instead of moving around it.

Start from one side of the object and take a photo. Make sure the object is centered and fills most of the frame. You can use grid lines or focus points on your camera screen to help you with framing.

Move slightly to the right or left (depending on which direction you want to go) and take another photo. Make sure there is at least 50% overlap between the previous photo and the current photo. You can use markers or reference points on the object or the background to help you with alignment.

Repeat this process until you complete a full circle around the object. You should have at least 20-30 photos for each circle, depending on the size and shape of the object.

Move up or down slightly and repeat the same process for another circle. You should have at least 3-5 circles for each object, depending on its height and complexity.

Once you have taken enough photos of your object using circular photography, you are ready to process them using a software called Meshroom. In the next part of this tutorial series, I will show you how to do that and generate a 3D model from your photos. 061ffe29dd