High-resolution 3D scanning of actors' faces and bodies using photogrammetry or laser scanning – creates precise digital doubles, enables face replacement, de-aging, and VFX integration for feature films and high-end productions.
What is a Cyber Scan?
A Cyber Scan (3D Scan, Body Scan) is the high-precision digital capture of individuals using photogrammetry or laser scanning. The result is detailed 3D models for Digital Doubles, Face Replacement, and VFX applications.
Scanning Methods
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Photogrammetry | Many photos → 3D model |
| Laser Scanning | Precise point cloud |
| Structured Light | Projected pattern |
| Hybrid | Combination |
What is Scanned?
| Element | Application |
|---|---|
| Face (FACS) | Expressions, Emotions |
| Head | Portrait, Hairstyle |
| Full Body | Digital Double |
| Hands | Detail work |
| Costume | With performer |
Scan Session Workflow
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Setup | 30–60 Min. |
| Neutral Pose | 10–30 Min. |
| FACS Expressions | 1–2 Hours |
| Body Poses | 30–60 Min. |
| Costume Scans | Variable |
Technical Requirements
| Aspect | Standard |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Sub-millimeter |
| Color | High-res texture |
| Lighting | Even, neutral |
| Calibration | Precise |
Scanning Rigs
| Rig Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Light Stage | Dome with cameras/lights |
| Array | Many synchronized cameras |
| Booth | Walk-in cabin |
| Mobile | On-set setup |
Providers
| Company | Location |
|---|---|
| Clear Angle | LA, London |
| Dimension Studio | London |
| 3Lateral/Epic | Serbia |
| Digital Domain | LA |
| SDFX Studios | Munich |
Output Formats
| Format | Usage |
|---|---|
| OBJ/FBX | 3D Mesh |
| ZBrush Project | Sculpting |
| Maya/Houdini | Animation |
| Textures | UDIM, High-res |
Application Areas
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Digital Double | Stunt replacement |
| Face Replacement | Other person |
| De-Aging | Making younger |
| Crowd Duplication | Background |
| Posthumous Performance | Deceased performers |
FACS Scanning
| Expression | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Action Units | 50+ |
| Poses | Neutral, Extremes |
| Phonemes | Lip sync |
| Emotions | Basic set |
Costs
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Face Scan (Basic) | €2,000–€5,000 |
| Full FACS Session | €5,000–€15,000 |
| Body Scan | €3,000–€10,000 |
| Full Package | €15,000–€50,000 |
Post-Processing
| Phase | Description |
|---|---|
| Cleanup | Remove artifacts |
| Retopology | Animation-ready mesh |
| Texturing | Projection, refinement |
| Rigging | Animation rig |
| Testing | Quality check |
Challenges
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Hair | Separate capture |
| Transparency | Special handling |
| Reflections | Matting |
| Movement | Hold still, fast |
On-Set Scanning
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Mobile Rig | Portable |
| Time Required | 15–30 Min. |
| Matching | To set lighting |
| Integration | With VFX team |
Difference: Scan vs. Mocap
| Aspect | Cyber Scan | Mocap |
|---|---|---|
| Result | 3D geometry | Motion data |
| Usage | Asset creation | Animation |
| Session | Static | In motion |
| Combined | Often together |
Notable Film Examples
| Film | Usage |
|---|---|
| Avengers | Digital Doubles |
| The Irishman | De-Aging |
| Rogue One | Face Recreation |
| Gemini Man | Full Digital Double |
Future
| Development | Status |
|---|---|
| Real-Time | In development |
| AI-Enhanced | Widespread |
| Consumer-Level | Simplified |
| Metaverse | New applications |
Today
Cyber Scans are a fundamental building block of modern VFX. From digital doubles for dangerous stunts to complete face recreations, high-precision 3D capture enables visual effects that were impossible just a few years ago.
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