HANDHELD 3D SCANNER OF CHOICE
CAPTURE A PERFECT 3D SCAN EVERY TIME
Paul Hatton uses a handheld scanner to create meshes and colour data in a simple workflow
PUT TO THE TEST
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The 3D scanning market can be pretty confusing at times. The number of different ways to 3D scan an object seems to increase with every passing year, and what was initially something only for the professionals is becoming available to the masses.
Not to add to the confusion but to explain the complexity at play, there are photogrammetry apps, laser scanners, structured light scanners, mobile scanners and even contact-based scanning technology. Each option comes with a plethora of hardware types and workflows. Suffice to say it’s not particularly straightforward, and you’d be forgiven for being confused when finding your way into the market.
Understanding the options available is the first step to ensuring you purchase the right type of scanner. We’re not talking about small amounts of money here, so it’s important to do your research first. Most artists will opt for either a handheld 3D scanner or a photogrammetry solution. These will generally allow for a smaller setup and are considerably more affordable than the high-end laser scanners some developers have made.
In this tutorial we’ll be looking at the workflow for handheld scanners in particular. These types of scanners rely on lasers or light to scan an object, and allow for a high level of precision in accuracy and colour replication. Recent years have seen a rise in these types of scanners. The price is coming down all the time with some becoming affordable even for hobbyists and amateurs. The competition is fierce and will make for an interesting few years.