Frequently Asked Questions
What information is needed to get started?
First of all, we will need your basic requirements for the visualizations: what you need, what kind of resolutions according to your needs for presentations or marketing.
Secondly we create the contract with a list of agreements and deliverables signed.
Is this an expensive project?
No, our goal is to make this process as affordable and accessible as possible. Our process allows us to charge a fraction of the cost for a scan using an expensive high-tech 3D camera. The costs vary depending on our customer’s needs.
How to order a 3D model?
You can use one of the channels below:
Email: hello@prefixa.com
Website: Contact form
Phone: +1 415 424 4101
How long does the 3D conversion process take?
The time required for 3D conversion depends on the client’s requirements and the difficulty of the art pieces as each project is vastly different from one another. We consider factors such as the size of the piece, the quality of the final video, the complexity of the art texture, and the number/length/scale of images/video/VR to be produced. Here is a rough idea for general reference:
| Size of the art piece | Textures of the art piece | Time to deliver |
| Small pieces | One material | 3 days each piece |
| Medium pieces | Texture with medium complexity | 4 days each piece |
| Large sculptures | Textures with high complexity and a lot of detail | 5 days each piece |
| Service | Time to deliver |
| Rendering | 3-5 days per 1-2 images |
| Animation | 1-2 weeks per minute |
| Virtual Reality | At least 4 weeks per project |
What are the available means of communication to reach you?
All of our official communication through the beginning of your project will be done via email so that we can keep a record. However, we can always hold online meetings where we can share screens via Zoom or Skype in case you have specific needs. Our platforms such as Whatsapp and social media are always open and on track so that you can reach us easily in a way that is the best for you.
And who will I be talking to?
The 3D specialist with whom you have been in contact since the beginning of your project will be assisting you throughout the process in coordination with our XR project manager.
Are there any limitations on the size of the sculpture that can be modeled?
No. We are able to capture all-size sculptures. Larger sculptures may take custom video requirements, but there are ways we can capture even the largest sculptures.
Are there any limitations on the material of the sculpture that can be modeled?
Yes. Some translucent objects like some glass sculptures, as well as mirror-like surfaces are hard to convert. In addition, thin wire sculptures can also be challenging. However, each case is specific. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the suitability of your sculpture you can send us a picture of the sculpture first, and we will let you know if the material of the sculpture presents a major problem or not. That being said, we are able to convert most sculptures.
Are people able to reproduce or replicate the model?
No, the models are only available for viewing online. They are not downloadable. Even if someone were to obtain the file, it is the incorrect file type, it doesn’t have enough data points, or it doesn’t have high enough resolution for any type of reproduction methods. It is similar to having a video or photo online but in an interactive format that allows for full viewing of the piece.
How can I send my scanning to you?
For file or video transfer, generally we use Dropbox or WeTransfer. We will review the best possibilities with the client at the time of finalizing the first customer contact. We keep it simple and easy for you.
How to ensure the similarity of 3D models?
So that we can achieve the best final results we will also ask you, in addition to the video, between 5 and 8 HD photos of the original art piece so that the 3D art team could perceive all the details.
It’s important to mention that the resolution of the camera with which the video was made with will be the resolution of the texture in the 3D model. So, although it is possible to gain good results from the video obtained from any device, we strongly recommend to have quality photograph equipment, so that the final texture will have the most similar result to the original art piece.
In the end, your approval is the most important thing for us. We continually send you the render of the 3D model to be sure that you are happy!
When recording, how important it is the background?
The background is not that important, we have techniques to edit the background out. However, it is important to mention that in order to get the best results we need two key elements:
- The piece should be easily distinguished from the background. i.e cannot be a dark piece with a similar dark color background with poor lighting. If we can make out that the sculpture is clearly the main focus of the video, the video will work fine.
- Objects crossed between the piece and the video should be avoided.
Can I use a Lazy Susan or turntable device to spin the sculpture around while recording?
No, an actual walk-around of the sculpture gives us the correct footage and data we need for our process. A 1-2 min walk around of the piece, capturing all the angles of the sculpture is the ideal. It is important that the video has not been paused or cut at any time.
Does this require any special equipment or a camera?
No, any newer smartphone or camera will work in capturing the videos we need to process the models. The videos are then uploaded to a Dropbox link where we can access it to start the conversion. Taking the video is very straightforward once you understand the concept. We can provide an example video for you to replicate.
Is my website compatible with 3D models?
Yes for embed codes (HTML) that we are sending you.
Image JPG, PNG / GiF
Video .mov or .mp4
Will the models work on any website?
Yes, models are compatible with all website providers. The model itself is hosted on Sketchfab. This is the YouTube of 3D models. Sketchfab provides the .html embed code the same way YouTube provides .html code for the video.
Models can be embedded directly into any website.