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.
Re: Wanting to use photogrammetry to scan a full-size car
Photogrammetry definitely works for full-size cars, but it's a bit more involved than just snapping photos and hitting a button. The software part is real — there are solid options like Metashape, RealityCapture, or even free ones like Meshroom. The tricky part is the actual photography process.
For a car, you'll need consistent lighting (overcast days are ideal), a good camera, and a systematic approach to your photo coverage. Think overlapping shots at multiple heights around the vehicle — low, mid, and high angles. The undercarriage is always challenging unless you can get the car on a lift. Shiny surfaces like chrome and glass can cause problems too, so sometimes people use dulling spray on really reflective parts.
Accuracy depends on your photo quality and technique. You can get pretty decent results for bodywork and general shape, but it won't match the precision of a structured light scanner for tight tolerances. What's your intended use for the scan? That might help figure out if photogrammetry will get you close enough or if you need to look at renting a higher-end scanner for the job.
For a car, you'll need consistent lighting (overcast days are ideal), a good camera, and a systematic approach to your photo coverage. Think overlapping shots at multiple heights around the vehicle — low, mid, and high angles. The undercarriage is always challenging unless you can get the car on a lift. Shiny surfaces like chrome and glass can cause problems too, so sometimes people use dulling spray on really reflective parts.
Accuracy depends on your photo quality and technique. You can get pretty decent results for bodywork and general shape, but it won't match the precision of a structured light scanner for tight tolerances. What's your intended use for the scan? That might help figure out if photogrammetry will get you close enough or if you need to look at renting a higher-end scanner for the job.
Re: Wanting to use photogrammetry to scan a full-size car
This might be a bit late, but it might still be useful to someone
Yes, it’s definitely possible, but I wouldn’t expect it to be as simple as "take photos and export a perfect STL"
For a full-size car, the hard parts are usually reflections, glass, and getting enough clean overlap between shots. Software like Artec Studio can help with processing and cleanup, but you’ll still need to spend some time fixing holes, smoothing bad areas, and preparing the mesh
So photogrammetry can work well here, especially for a general car body shape, just expect some manual cleanup and a bit of trial and error
Yes, it’s definitely possible, but I wouldn’t expect it to be as simple as "take photos and export a perfect STL"
For a full-size car, the hard parts are usually reflections, glass, and getting enough clean overlap between shots. Software like Artec Studio can help with processing and cleanup, but you’ll still need to spend some time fixing holes, smoothing bad areas, and preparing the mesh
So photogrammetry can work well here, especially for a general car body shape, just expect some manual cleanup and a bit of trial and error