Utilising 3D

Did you know that there are more dimensions than the two dimensions in which you're currently reading this blog? Yeah, me too. But did you also know that some museums are currently using those other dimensions to do some incredible things with their objects?

I used the words 'other dimensions', and now I'm a little afraid that things might start getting all 'X-Files' up in here. By 'other dimensions' I mean 3D imaging, modelling and digitisation. Later this week we'll be running a training session looking at 3D, here at the Museum of London, and I literally can't wait to get into the three dimensional digitisation goodness. 

We will be using photogrammetry, which in essence is taking lots of pictures of an object, and using them as points of reference to create a 3D digital render. Once we've got those images, we'll be using Agisoft PhotoScan* to create 3D models of the objects. We'll then be showing those on the course how to upload those renders to Sketchfab*, to host them online for all to see. 

The thing about 3D digitisation is that a lot of people are scared of it. They're mostly worried that it might be too difficult, or that it may be too expensive. And whilst these could be valid arguments against undertaking large scale 3D digitisation projects, such as the brain boxes at the Smithsonian currently are, I don't think that the argument holds up when you're thinking on a smaller scale.

Museums have some absolutely incredibly objects, and not all of them are on display. Some objects aren't in a fit state to be displayed, some lack the relevant background information to be integral to an exhibition and others just don't fit with the 'story of the gallery' - but all of that doesn't make them any less interesting. By digitising in three dimensions, we mitigate issues of display, or space, and we allow users to experience those objects in a far more interactive, digital form. Through platforms like Sketchfab, we're able to give new meaning to these objects, to inject life into them and show every angle of their lovely-objectyness. This goes for museum objects on display, as well - haven't you always wondered what's on the back of the Mona Lisa? I know I have!

Yes, 3D digitisation isn't easy (from my incredibly brief experience, which you can see in the header of this blog). And yes, it does take some time to perfect (see previous bracketed statement). But I truly believe that, by selecting a handful of your most interesting un-displayed objects, you have the potential to make some incredibly engaging, thought provoking, mesmerising and truly awesome digital displays. SO if there's one thing that I hope the delegates on Wednesday's course get out of the session, it's that they shouldn't be afraid to have a go, and that they realise the potential of 3D digital objects. Alright, that was two things.

*There are other reputable programmes and platforms to do 3D with