The challenge
A major film production for Wilhelm Tell required complete 3D acquisition at three different scales: approximately 400 props (from small accessories to large set pieces), 400 extras for digital crowd replication, and FACS facial performances of lead actors. The client's VFX team would process the data internally — we needed to deliver cinema-quality raw data while coordinating with the active shooting schedule.
Props (~400 items)
Structured light scanning (Spider scanner) for sub-millimeter geometry, combined with Sony A7R IV 61MP reference photography in cross-polarization for pure albedo and surface information. Weapons, furniture, armor, decorative elements, carts, equipment — every item scanned contactlessly and delivered as raw data with scale and calibration references.
Crowds (400 extras)
The DigiDouble scanner captured each extra in costume and makeup with a single 360-degree shot — full geometry and textures in 1-2 seconds. Scans integrated into shooting days without disrupting production, with a continuous flow of 30-50 extras per day.
Lead actors (facial FACS)
10 FACS expressions per actor, captured in sessions of maximum 20 minutes each. High-resolution facial geometry and textures, structured for facial rig creation and blend shapes. Data ready for digital face replacement, character animation, and performance capture retargeting.
Result
All data delivered as organized raw packages for the client's VFX pipeline: geometry, high-resolution textures, metadata, and calibration documentation. No additional shoots needed, zero significant disruptions to the production schedule.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Props (Spider) | Crowd (DigiDouble) | FACS (Face) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cameras | Structured light | 40× DSLR | 40× DSLR |
| Resolution | Sub-mm geometry | Full-body 360° | High-res facial |
| Texture | 61MP cross-polarized (Sony A7R IV) | Simultaneous color | Simultaneous color |
| Capture time | 2-5 min per item | 1-2 seconds per extra | 20 min per actor |
| Expressions | N/A | N/A | 10 FACS per actor |
| Throughput | 20-30 items/day | 30-50 extras/day | 3-4 actors/day |
| Output | Geometry + albedo + calibration ref | Full geometry + texture | Geometry + texture per expression |
| Delivery | Raw data packages, organized per pipeline | Raw data packages | Raw data packages, FACS-labeled |
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