Transform Your Photos and Videos into Stunning 3D Models

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Photogrammetry?
3. The Limitation of Using Photogrammetry on Intel Max
4. The Introduction of M1 Max and New Architecture
5. The Object Capture API in Mac OS 10 Monterey
6. Photo Catch: An App for Photogrammetry on Max
7. Using Photos as Input in Photo Catch
8. Using Videos as Input in Photo Catch
9. Exporting and Processing the 3D Models
10. Conclusion

Article

Introduction

In the world of 3D modeling, one popular technique is photogrammetry. This process involves converting photos or videos into 3D models using specialized software. However, when it came to using photogrammetry applications on the Intel Max, there was a limitation. Users had to have an Nvidia graphics card to run free software like Mushroom or Reality Capture. But with the introduction of the M1 Max and its new architecture, this limitation changed.

What is Photogrammetry?

Before diving into the details, let's first understand what photogrammetry is. Photogrammetry is a technique used to Create 3D models from 2D images or videos. By analyzing multiple photos or frames, software can reconstruct the geometry and texture of the captured object. This process allows for realistic 3D representations of real-world objects.

The Limitation of Using Photogrammetry on Intel Max

Previously, to perform photogrammetry on the Intel Max, users needed an Nvidia graphics card. This requirement made it challenging for those who didn't have access to such hardware. As a result, they couldn't utilize popular photogrammetry software like Mushroom or Reality Capture. This limitation restricted the potential of photogrammetry for many users.

The Introduction of M1 Max and New Architecture

With the introduction of the M1 Max and its new architecture, the landscape of photogrammetry on Mac devices changed. The M1 Max offered powerful performance and capabilities that surpassed the need for additional GPUs. This breakthrough allowed users to explore new possibilities in photogrammetry without the limitations of hardware compatibility.

The Object Capture API in Mac OS 10 Monterey

As part of the Mac OS 10 Monterey update, Apple introduced the Object Capture API. This new feature made it possible to perform photogrammetry on Max devices for free. The Object Capture API provided developers with the tools and resources to create applications that leverage the power of photogrammetry using the M1 Max.

Photo Catch: An App for Photogrammetry on Max

Shortly after Apple introduced the Object Capture API, the first app utilizing this functionality became available in the App Store. One such app is Photo Catch. Photo Catch allows users to effortlessly convert photos or videos into 3D models using the Object Capture API. Its user-friendly interface and straightforward process make it ideal for users looking to explore the world of photogrammetry.

Using Photos as Input in Photo Catch

In Photo Catch, users can choose to use either photos or a single video as input for their 3D models. The app also offers a multimedia option where multiple photos and videos can be combined into a single project. While additional features may be available, they often come at a cost since they are not part of Apple's API. However, for most users, the free functionality of Photo Catch is sufficient unless specific professional requirements demand more control.

To create a 3D model using photos, simply select the desired folder or set of images and hit "create model" in Photo Catch. The app provides options to customize the level of Detail and other advanced settings. The level of detail selection determines the computation effort and time required to calculate the final result. Within a few minutes, users can obtain a 3D object with textures, already cropped to their desired specifications.

Using Videos as Input in Photo Catch

Photo Catch also supports the use of videos as input for 3D modeling. Users can capture a video, ensuring to film the object from various angles. By loading the video into Photo Catch, users can specify the number of video images to use and define the frame skipping. The app allows users to mark the first and last frames in the sequence, excluding any irrelevant frames. After hitting "create model," Photo Catch processes the video, generating a 3D model of the captured object.

Exporting and Processing the 3D Models

Once the 3D models are generated, Photo Catch offers the option to export them in different formats. The two common formats include OBJ for 3D printing software and ASD Zed for Apple devices such as iPhones and iPads. While the ASD Zed format allows for faster display on Apple devices, it is not compatible with other 3D construction or printing programs. Users can choose the appropriate format Based on their intended usage.

The efficiency and speed at which Apple's Object Capture API works are impressive. Comparing it to traditional photogrammetry software like Meshroom, which took 15 minutes to produce a result requiring further editing and cropping, Apple's solution is significantly faster. This achievement becomes even more noteworthy when considering the affordability of the MacBook Air with the M1 Max, which outperforms more expensive PCs.

Conclusion

With the introduction of the M1 Max and Apple's Object Capture API, photogrammetry on Max devices has become more accessible and powerful. Apps like Photo Catch harness this newfound capability, allowing users to effortlessly create 3D models from photos or videos. The convenience, speed, and affordability of this solution make it a game-changer in the world of photogrammetry.

Highlights

• Photogrammetry is a technique used to create 3D models from 2D images or videos.
• Users previously needed an Nvidia graphics card to use photogrammetry software on the Intel Max.
• The introduction of the M1 Max and its new architecture removed the limitation of additional GPUs.
• Apple's Object Capture API in Mac OS 10 Monterey allows for photogrammetry on Max devices for free.
• Photo Catch is an app available in the App Store that utilizes the Object Capture API for easy and straightforward photogrammetry.
• Photo Catch allows users to convert photos or videos into 3D models, with options to customize the level of detail.
• The app supports the use of both photos and videos as input, making it versatile for various projects.
• Users can export the 3D models in different formats, including OBJ for 3D printing and ASD Zed for Apple devices.
• Apple's Object Capture API is faster and more efficient compared to traditional photogrammetry software.
• The affordability and performance of the MacBook Air with the M1 Max make it a competitive option for photogrammetry.

FAQ:

Q: Can Photo Catch be used for professional purposes? A: Photo Catch's free functionality is suitable for most users' needs. However, if specific professional requirements demand more control, additional paid features may be necessary.

Q: Can videos be used instead of photos for photogrammetry in Photo Catch? A: Yes, Photo Catch supports the use of videos as input for creating 3D models. Users can capture a video of the object from various angles and process it using the app.

Q: What formats can the 3D models be exported in? A: Photo Catch provides options to export the 3D models in OBJ format for 3D printing software and ASD Zed format for Apple devices. Users can choose the appropriate format based on their intended usage.

Q: Is Apple's Object Capture API faster than traditional photogrammetry software? A: Yes, Apple's Object Capture API is significantly faster compared to traditional software like Meshroom. The API's efficiency is evident, even on more affordable devices like the MacBook Air with the M1 Max.

Q: Can the 3D models generated in Photo Catch be used for commercial purposes? A: Yes, the 3D models created using Photo Catch can be used for commercial purposes. They can be presented on websites or used as assets in games, providing a cost-effective alternative to more expensive software like Reality Capture.