While Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology have advanced considerably in the last few years, 3D creation remains a pain point for companies.
Creating assets is limited to hiring 3D designers, purchasing or contracting expensive photogrammetry/scanning rigs, AI-powered 2D to 3D conversion for common products, and purchasing and downloading from platforms like Sketchfab, CGTrader, and Turbosquid. For brands with limited budgets, it’s tough to justify high 3D costs, especially if they lack knowledge on how to execute an effective campaign.
Apple recognized this problem and recently launched a product to facilitate easy 3D creation. With RealityKit Object Capture (currently in preview/beta), users can convert high-quality images into 3D representations more easily than ever before, through Apple’s next macOS. Right now, anyone with an Apple Developer Account can download the new OS and try out the photogrammetry.
Wait, how does all this work?
Using multiple well-lit, high-resolution photos from various angles, users can drop the photos onto their Mac desktop, and using the Object Capture API can generate the 3D model from the images. Any digital camera including iPhones and iPads can be used. A lidar camera is not required for the photos, but it’s recommended.
While camera type doesn’t matter, the picture quality does. Apple recommends diffused lighting for photographs, as flashes or direct sunlight cause harsh shadows that interfere with the object capture.
Maintaining camera settings between shots is a must. This allows for consistency between shots and makes the transition from 2D to 3D easier. Apple advises using an image editor to clean up a photo’s brightness, contrast, exposure, or unnecessary background images.
A quick, step-by-step guide
In an article published by Apple, they list an overview of their latest tech, followed by a detailed list of how to approach both the software and the photography to ensure RealityKit works for you. Summed up, it reads as follows:
- Select a static object to photograph. Avoid objects that are soft, translucent, or overly reflective.
- Choose your approach. You can move the camera around the object, or place the object on a turntable to allow for multiple angles.
- Make sure sequential images have about 70% overlap to allow for maximum quality and consistency.
This program allows even the technologically unsavvy to quickly grasp and master its process. 3D modeling has never been easier.
Visual representation of how to photograph an object for RealityKit
Now it’s easier than ever to make compelling VR and AR experiences
RealityKit’s achievements don’t only represent a new dawn for augmented reality—it also signals a world of changing possibilities for Arlene clients.
Through this technology, we can automate 2D to 3D imaging more quickly and easily through our platform, while continuing to deliver on our promise of accessible, results-driven immersive experiences.
Arlene wants to make it as simple and straightforward as possible to bring 3D, immersive experiences to your brand. By utilizing Apple’s API, we will provide our clients with the ability to offer more accurate, realistic AR activations, experiences, 360 tours, virtual processes, and more at a fraction of the cost and effort.
Interested in learning more about 3D and its ability to elevate your brand?