Importing 3D Objects as Props in Previs Pro

Custom models can help define key elements of your project, be it a unique location, that Maltese Falcon set piece, or simply the requirement to include specific client IP.  Import Props from Sketchfab.com, your devices LIDAR scanner, your VFX team and more!

Thumbnail Importing 3D Props

CREATE A PROP DIRECTLY IN PREVIS PRO

See our help page here

‍IMPORTING PROPS FROM SKETCHFAB.COM

In Previs Pro, tap the Pencil from the main screen.

  1. Tap "Import", then select "Import 3D Props."
  2. Tap the Magnifying Glass in the upper right to switch to a browser and search for a 3D Prop on SketchFab.com  (Suggested size under 100mb, 150 max; under 250k Triangles, 400 max.)
    1. Choose the 'glTF' format, which should always be the default option.
    2. The file (a .zip) will have been saved in your Files downloads on your device, where you can load it into Previs Pro using the procedure below.
3D Props

IMPORTING A 3D PROP FROM THE LIDAR SCANNER ON YOUR DEVICE

  1. There are many LiDAR capture apps on the App Store (we use PolyCam but there are dozens.)  Find one and save the scan to the Files on your device as “GLTF.”  It sorta… MAGIC!  
  2. Make sure the scanned object isn’t too complex, it might take some playing with to get the hang of it.
  3. The result will be impressionistic but 100% size accurate.  In many ways this is better for storyboards, you’re evoking the scene, not filming it.  Using 100% accurate sets and props is especially powerful combined with Augmented Reality.
  4. Import the file using the following instructions and you should be all set.
  5. See tool suggestion below for reducing model size after it’s generated.

IMPORTING A 3D PROP FROM THE FILES ON YOUR DEVICE

1. Tap the Pencil from the main canvas screen.

2. Tap "Import", then select "3D Props"

3. Tap the Folder in the upper right to bring up the file picker.

4. Select the 3D Prop to import.  (Note: If you can’t select your prop, ZIP it and any files it came with and try selecting the zip file.)

5. If successfully loaded, you’ll be able to adjust the objects "facing" and "scale.”  This is for your convenience and to help us optimize the object.  (If you're importing a banana it needs less detail then if you're importing a car).

6. Tap "Done" and Previs Pro will optimize the prop object, and drop it into your shot!

HOW TO HAVE A GOOD EXPERIENCE

“3D objects” in computers are a complicated topic. They can range from tiny to gigabytes in size, include animations and fancy lighting effects; a Minecraft block to the Mandolorian. So don’t expect it to be as simple as using images.  Results will vary; not all models are compatible or free. If you attempt too large a file, the app may be closed by the OS (all work will be saved!) and need to be relaunched.

Suggestions for searching: Use terms like “downloadable” or “low poly.” If you find assets made for games, they are usually smaller and work well. And finally, there are lots of 3D Artist’s looking for side gigs, make friends and commission what you need.  Here’s a place to start: Upwork 3D Modelers.  

Online Tool to reduce model complexity. Choose Lens Studio and HIGH options. https://rapidcompact.com

Suggested size under 100mb, 150 max; under 250k Triangles, 400 max.

Note: We recommend a minimum of 4GB device to use imported props. Check your device specs, or see here.

WHY SKETCHFAB?

Previs Pro needs to run on high end devices as well as last year’s iPhone, which is a challenge. Additionally 3D Models come in dozens of formats and there is no real standards in the 3D Model world.  Sketchfab converts every model uploaded to them into a "glTF" format (https://sketchfab.com/features/gltf). So while we support importing many formats (fbx, obj, from Maya Autodesk, Blender, ZBrush etc), focusing on that gives users a straight path to getting your work done fast with minimal headaches.  Also, we think they’ve done a great job at being the “google image search” of 3D Objects.

If you're working with a 3D artist or studio, they can upload their work on SketchFab (public or private), and then you can download the converted glTF versions hassle free. See Uploading Models for more info.  Remember when talking to artists that less “triangles”, smaller “textures”, and avoiding weird “shaders” = less headaches.  

Previs Pro is not associated with Sketchfab.com and any expectations of utility from models aquired through Sketchfab or other third party vendors are made at your own risk. So start free or cheap until you’re comfortable with the process!  

A sampling of models we’ve selected that are free, downloadable and work well with Previs Pro to help you get used to the process can be found HERE

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