Free Learning Opportunity: Photogrammetry, a way to build 3D models

The University of Wyoming Libraries is bringing in three experts from Cultural Heritage Imaging (CHI) to speak about photogrammetry Monday, May 20.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is set for 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in Room 506 of Coe Library. A 15-minute break will take place at 11:20 a.m. No registration is required. Light refreshments will be provided.

Photogrammetry class trainees capture an image of an enormous Olmec stone head in San Francisco. Image courtesy, CHI.

Photogrammetry is a way to build 3D models using a camera and basic software. It can be used to create models of a range of objects, from topographical maps, small objects, paintings, sculptures, entire buildings, archaeological sites, and even cities using drone & aerial photography. It has been used around the world in museums, archives, libraries, by the BLM (Bureau of Land Management), and is the underlying technology that Google uses to build 3D representations of cities in Google Earth. This is a relatively accessible and easy to learn way to build 3D models and is less expensive than buying a professional 3D scanner. Models can be manipulated on a computer, used in VR/AR applications, in teaching, and be 3D printed….the applications are endless.

“We’re really excited to bring this program in,” says Chad Hutchens, head of Digital Collections at UW Libraries. “Photogrammetry is a relatively easy, affordable and accessible way to build three-dimensional models of just about anything with the use of a camera and relatively simple software. While UW Libraries employs this technology, we also want to empower others to use this technology to document and preserve their own items, as well as have fun with 3-D modeling, whatever their goals may be.”

CHI’s mission is to “drive development and adoption of practical digital imaging and preservation solutions for people passionate about saving humanity’s treasures today, before they are lost.” For more information about CHI, visit www.culturalheritageimaging.org.

For more information about the May 20 program, call Chad Hutchens at (307) 766-5560 or email chutchen@uwyo.edu.

[Re-posted from UW News]