What is photogrammetry and how do I create my 3D models?

 

Photogrammetry is a technique that allows for the creation of precise three-dimensional models from regular photos. While it may sound like magic, it is actually the result of advanced mathematical calculations and modern algorithms. In short, by taking hundreds or thousands of photos of a given object from different angles, we can reconstruct its shape, texture, and proportions in a virtual space.

How is a 3D model created?

 

1. Collecting photos – using a drone or a camera, I take a series of photos of a given object from various perspectives, ensuring high photo overlap (at least 60–80%). A drone allows me to capture monuments from above, while a camera from the ground level complements details inaccessible from the air.

2. Processing in photogrammetry software – the photos are sent to specialized software (e.g., RealityCapture), which analyzes common points between the photographs, reconstructing the object’s spatial structure.

3. Creating a 3D mesh and texturing – a dense point cloud is created from the points, followed by a mesh of triangles. Finally, a texture, which is a realistic “skin” of the model created from the photos, is applied.

4. Export and publication – the finished model can be viewed in a web browser, shared on a website, used in presentations, or… printed on a 3D printer!

 

Applications of photogrammetry

In everyday life:

 

• Education and tourism – virtual tours of places that we cannot physically access.

• Hobby and reconstruction – documenting monuments, places, and even family heirlooms.

• 3D printing – models can be used to create miniature buildings, dioramas for games, or educational exhibits.

Professional applications:

 

• Archaeology and museology – documentation of excavation sites, digital reconstructions of artifacts.

• Urban planning and architecture – models help in spatial planning, shadow analysis, and designing new investments in the context of existing development.

• Cultural heritage protection – precise documentation of historical objects that can be used for their renovation or reconstruction after destruction.

• VR/AR and computer games – realistic 3D environments used in film productions and games.

 

Kraków 3D – digital heritage in a modern edition

 

“Kraków 3D” is my original project, in which I digitalize the most valuable monuments of Kraków, creating detailed 3D models of them that are available to everyone. I use the photogrammetry technique and photos from a drone and camera to faithfully reproduce the appearance of historic buildings and architectural details.

The database already includes, among others, the Main Market Square with the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Church, St. Adalbert’s Church, St. Joseph’s Church in Podgórze, the Słowacki Theatre, and more. My goal is to create many more models of Kraków’s most important landmarks.

The models are available online, where they can be viewed interactively, rotated, and zoomed in on—or even viewed with AR/VR goggles. The project is educational and documentary, and its goal is not only to popularize the history and architecture of Kraków but also to create a virtual city guide in the future. Thanks to this initiative, Kraków could become the first city in Poland with such an advanced digital database of architectural heritage. The project is being carried out as part of my portal and film channel Kraków z nieba.