I would appreciate your help, I’ve read about photogrammetry and it sounds too simple to be true. Just take a lot of photos download it to an app and create a STL file? I can’t believe there’s reasonably price software out there that can do that. I’m hoping someone could give me some guidance.
I want to scan a full-size car and the Revo point scanners that I have are not capable of scanning a full-size car. I was hoping to use photogrammetry. If I extensively photograph the car from all angles, will it be possible to have an STL file made from the photos and would it be reasonably accurate and how would I go about it and what would it cost?
Wanting to use photogrammetry to scan a full-size car
Re: Wanting to use photogrammetry to scan a full-size car
Yes, photogrammetry can absolutely be used to scan a full-size car, but there are a few things to keep in mind so your expectations line up with the results.
You’re right that, in principle, the process sounds simple: take a large set of overlapping photos, process them in software, and export an STL or OBJ file. But the accuracy and quality depend on several factors:
Lighting & reflections: Cars are tricky because of glossy paint, glass, and chrome. Reflections can confuse the software. Using a matte spray (like a removable chalk spray) or shooting on an overcast day helps reduce glare.
Photo quality & coverage: You’ll need hundreds of high-resolution images taken from every angle (close-ups for detail, wide shots for overall shape). Consistent overlap (60–80%) is key.
Software choice: There are affordable options. Free/open-source tools like Meshroom or COLMAP exist, while commercial programs like Agisoft Metashape or RealityCapture deliver higher accuracy and faster processing.
Accuracy: For a car-sized object, you can get reasonably accurate geometry for visualization, concept work, or even rough prototyping. But if you need millimeter-level accuracy (say for reverse engineering or precise modifications), laser scanning or structured light scanning will outperform photogrammetry.
Cost: If you already have a decent camera (even a good DSLR or modern smartphone), your main cost will be the software. Open-source = free. Paid licenses range from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars, depending on features.
In short: Yes, you can scan your car with photogrammetry, get a usable STL, and keep costs low—but be prepared for a learning curve, lots of photos, and some cleanup in 3D modeling software. If you need high precision, you may want to combine photogrammetry with a professional scanning service.
You’re right that, in principle, the process sounds simple: take a large set of overlapping photos, process them in software, and export an STL or OBJ file. But the accuracy and quality depend on several factors:
Lighting & reflections: Cars are tricky because of glossy paint, glass, and chrome. Reflections can confuse the software. Using a matte spray (like a removable chalk spray) or shooting on an overcast day helps reduce glare.
Photo quality & coverage: You’ll need hundreds of high-resolution images taken from every angle (close-ups for detail, wide shots for overall shape). Consistent overlap (60–80%) is key.
Software choice: There are affordable options. Free/open-source tools like Meshroom or COLMAP exist, while commercial programs like Agisoft Metashape or RealityCapture deliver higher accuracy and faster processing.
Accuracy: For a car-sized object, you can get reasonably accurate geometry for visualization, concept work, or even rough prototyping. But if you need millimeter-level accuracy (say for reverse engineering or precise modifications), laser scanning or structured light scanning will outperform photogrammetry.
Cost: If you already have a decent camera (even a good DSLR or modern smartphone), your main cost will be the software. Open-source = free. Paid licenses range from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars, depending on features.
In short: Yes, you can scan your car with photogrammetry, get a usable STL, and keep costs low—but be prepared for a learning curve, lots of photos, and some cleanup in 3D modeling software. If you need high precision, you may want to combine photogrammetry with a professional scanning service.