Book Image

Taking Blender to the Next Level

By : Ruan Lotter
Book Image

Taking Blender to the Next Level

By: Ruan Lotter

Overview of this book

If you're ready to start exploring the more advanced workflows and processes in Blender to create intricate 3D models, then Taking Blender to the Next Level is for you. This book focuses on a few different VFX-related workflows such as geometry nodes, organic modeling, 3D camera tracking, photogrammetry, sculpting, compositing, and physics simulations. You’ll learn how to use geometry nodes to create dynamic motion graphic scenes as well as perform 3D scanning of real-world objects using photogrammetry. You’ll also find out how to model, rig, and animate your own 3D characters from scratch. Next, you’ll progress to using simulations to break objects apart and then use cloth and hair simulations to add realism to your 3D creations. Finally, you’ll go over the final render settings and export your 3D animation masterpiece as a video. By the end of this Blender book, you’ll be able to model your own 3D characters, objects, and landscapes; rig, animate, and texture your characters; 3D track live-action footage; and composite your 3D characters into live-action scenes.
Table of Contents (19 chapters)
1
Part 1: Modeling, Materials, and Animation Workflows
10
Part 2: Let's Do Some Physics
14
Part 3: Match Moving and Compositing

Using Meshroom to convert photos into a 3D model

In this section, we will be using a free program called Meshroom to convert still images into a 3D model.

Note that Meshroom is currently only compatible with Windows and Linux. Unfortunately, there is no Mac version right now. There are a few other options to use if you are on a Mac but most of them are not free.

Let's get started:

  1. Download and install Meshroom from the following URL: https://alicevision.org.
  2. Next, you need to copy the photos to your computer. Create a new folder (this folder can be created anywhere on your computer) and copy all your photos from your camera into this folder.
  3. Launch Meshroom.
  4. First, you need to import all the photos you have taken into Meshroom. On the left side of the interface, you will see a window with the text Drop Images Files / Folders. Now, open Windows Explorer and locate the folder containing all your photos.
  5. Select all the photos in the folder and drag...