How to achieve the highest quality 3D scans with a phone

Your phone is a densely packed mini computer we can use to scan and process image and Lidar data to create hyper-realistic 3D assets of your physical objects. With Apple announcing Apple Intelligence on their new phones, we are experiencing a new creative frontier. Monet's app enhances this capability, making high-quality 3D scans and the creation of virtual spaces accessible for you. Let’s explore the essentials of 3D scanning with your phone and how to maximize its potential on the Monet app.

A 3D scan captures the shape, depth, and colour of an object or person, turning it into a digital model. This process involves using the sensors(like Face ID) in your phone, and you can transform real-world objects into digital assets. These scans can then be used in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), or even for 3D printing!

Proper lighting is crucial. Ensure your object is well-lit, avoiding harsh shadows. Natural light works well, but if scanning indoors, use consistent artificial light sources.

Minimize movement during the scan and keep the object stationary throughout the process. Follow app instructions for any necessary adjustments, and remember that not all objects need to be flipped.

Avoid scanning on a glass table. A plain background helps the sensors differentiate the object from its surroundings. Avoid busy or reflective backgrounds that can confuse the app.

Capture the object from multiple angles. Move around it to ensure all sides are thoroughly scanned, especially for intricate shapes. We've added a feature to help you scan tricky areas; simply click the button in the bottom right corner to take an additional picture.

A clean camera lens ensures clear images. Wipe it down before starting your scan to avoid smudges or dust particles affecting the quality.

Avoid reflective surfaces by covering shiny objects with a matte spray or powder, and maintain a consistent distance from the object as you move around it.

Congratulations!! You’re now a 3D scanning expert! Share your creations with a Monet Premium account to impress your friends and captivate your audience or visitors. Our app is free to download and use for you to effortlessly create detailed 3D models and spaces.

Many 3D scanning apps only do one thing which is scanning. You are required to navigate complex 3D software and either handle or hire experts to integrate your objects, learn to embed them on your websites, and design spaces for hosting them.

With the right app and techniques, smartphone 3D scanning can be impressively accurate, often achieving precision within 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm. Monet’s app leverages advanced algorithms to enhance this accuracy, making it suitable for casual and professional use.

Monet makes this process effortless. Our app not only allows you to create 3D assets with our scanning tool but you can also integrate 3D objects you scanned or created from other tools into customizable virtual spaces. 

In our guide, we detail how to set up a virtual exhibition in 10 min!! and you can easily adapt it to create showrooms, stores, and more. Available on iOS with Android support coming very soon.