FaceGen Tutorial: Create 3D Faces from Photos for 3D Printing

Creating custom 3D models, especially faces, can seem daunting. However, with the right tools and a step-by-step guide, anyone can bring their creative visions to life. This article serves as a comprehensive tutorial on using FaceGen, a powerful 3D face maker software, to generate realistic 3D faces from photographs, perfectly tailored for 3D printing and other creative projects. Whether you are a seasoned designer, a hobbyist, or a beginner eager to learn, this detailed guide will walk you through every stage of the process, making face creation accessible and enjoyable. Dive in and unlock the potential of personalized 3D artistry!

What is FaceGen?

FaceGen is a specialized software designed to automatically generate 3D models of human faces from one or more 2D photographs. It offers a user-friendly interface and robust algorithms to create realistic and customizable 3D faces. This tool is widely used in various industries, including 3D printing, animation, gaming, and virtual reality, providing a streamlined solution for creating personalized avatars and characters.

With FaceGen, you can easily convert static images into dynamic 3D models ready for further editing and enhancement.

Key features of FaceGen:

• Image Import and Alignment: The software allows users to import frontal and side view images of a face, automatically detecting and aligning key facial features like eyes, nose, and mouth.
• 3D Model Generation: FaceGen uses the imported images to construct a detailed 3D model, accurately reproducing facial contours and proportions.
• Customization Options: Users can further refine the generated model using a wide range of customization tools, modifying age, race, gender, and other detailed parameters.
• Exporting Capabilities: Once the model is complete, FaceGen supports exporting in various industry-standard formats, such as OBJ, making it compatible with most 3D printing and modeling software.
• Commercial Licensing: While a demo version is available for free trial, a paid license is required for commercial use, enabling creators to monetize their 3D face models.

Why Use FaceGen for 3D Face Modeling?

FaceGen provides an efficient and accurate way to create 3D face models, saving time and resources compared to manual sculpting methods. It simplifies the complex task of 3D modeling by automating the initial creation phase. The software's intuitive interface and powerful features make it accessible to both beginners and professionals. By using FaceGen, you can quickly generate a base model and then refine it further in other 3D modeling programs.

Benefits of using FaceGen:

• Time Efficiency: Automates the initial 3D modeling process, significantly reducing creation time.
• Accuracy: Produces highly accurate 3D models based on uploaded photographs.
• User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate and use, making it accessible for all skill levels.
• Customization: Offers a broad range of customization options to fine-tune the generated models.
• Versatility: Suitable for various applications, including 3D printing, animation, and Game development.

Using FaceGen ensures that you start with a solid foundation, providing a realistic and detailed base model that can be further customized to meet your specific project needs.

Image Quality Matters

To achieve the best possible results with FaceGen, focus on using high-quality, clear images. Blurry or poorly lit photos can result in inaccurate 3D models. Ensure that your images have good lighting, sharp focus, and minimal shadows. The frontal and side view images should be taken under similar conditions to maintain consistency.

Consistent Lighting

Consistent lighting across all input images is crucial for generating accurate 3D models. Avoid using images with harsh shadows or overexposure, as these can distort facial features.

If the lighting conditions differ between the frontal and side view images, consider using the option within FaceGen to adjust for these discrepancies.

Correct Camera Angles

Ensure that the frontal and side view images are taken from the correct camera angles. The frontal image should be a straight-on view of the face, while the side view image should be a clear profile. Avoid images taken from oblique angles, as these can lead to distortions in the generated 3D model. If you only get one image of someone, ensure that you check the Relevant box inside FaceGen to help with the creation.

Step 1: Installing and Opening FaceGen Software

To begin, ensure that you have downloaded and installed the FaceGen software on your computer. Visit the FaceGen website ( Mentioned in the video) to download the demo version or purchase a commercial license. Once installed, open the FaceGen application to start the 3D face creation process.

• Download FaceGen: Go to the FaceGen website and select the appropriate version for your operating system.
• Install the Software: Follow the installation instructions provided.
• Open FaceGen: Launch the application from your desktop or applications folder.

With the software now open, you are ready to start importing and processing your facial images.

Step 2: Importing Facial Images

The next step is to import frontal and side view images of the face you wish to model. High-quality, clear images are crucial for achieving the best results.

• Load Frontal Image: Click on the 'Load Image' button under the 'Good' section to upload the frontal image of the face.

  

• Load Side Image: Similarly, upload a side view image by clicking the 'Load Image' button under the 'Optional: Left' or 'Optional: Right' section.

Once the images are imported, the software will automatically detect key facial features and mark them with green points.

Step 3: Aligning Facial Points

After importing the images, FaceGen automatically marks points on the face to identify key features such as the eyes, nose, and mouth. It is important to review these points and manually adjust them if necessary to ensure accurate alignment.

• Review Marked Points: Check if the green points are accurately placed on the facial features.
• Adjust Points Manually: If any points are misaligned, click and drag them to the correct positions.

  Use the instructions provided with the software on how to accurately adjust the facial points.

• Confirm Alignment: Once you are satisfied with the alignment, click the 'Done' button to proceed.

Step 4: Generating the 3D Face Model

With the images imported and aligned, you can now generate the 3D face model. FaceGen uses the information from the images to construct a detailed 3D representation of the face. This process may take a few moments, depending on the complexity and resolution of the images.

• Click 'Create from Photos': Press the 'Create from Photos' button at the bottom of the interface.

  

• Wait for Generation: Allow the software to process the images and generate the 3D model. A progress bar will indicate the status.

Once the model is generated, you can preview it in the main viewport. The model will initially appear as a bald head.

Step 5: Adding Hair and Other Details

To customize the 3D face model further, you can add hair, beards, and other details. FaceGen offers a range of preset hairstyles and facial hair options that can be easily applied to the model.

• Go to 'Parts' Tab: Click on the 'Parts' tab in the top menu.
• Select Hair Style: Choose a hairstyle from the available options under the 'Hair' section.
• Add Facial Hair: If desired, add a beard or mustache from the 'Beard' section.

These additions help to create a more complete and personalized 3D avatar.

Step 6: Exporting the 3D Model

Once you are satisfied with the 3D face model, you can export it in a format suitable for 3D printing or further editing in other 3D modeling software. FaceGen supports exporting in OBJ format, which is compatible with most 3D applications.

• Click 'File' > 'Export Face': Navigate to the 'File' menu and select 'Export Face'.
• Choose Export Format: Select OBJ as the export format.
• Save the File: Choose a location to save the file and give it a descriptive name.

Your 3D face model is now ready for 3D printing or further customization.

Understanding FaceGen's License Options

FaceGen offers both demo and paid versions to accommodate different user needs. The demo version is free to use but comes with limited features and is not intended for commercial purposes. For commercial use, a paid license is required.

Demo Version:

• Free to Use: Available for download from the FaceGen website.
• Limited Features: Offers basic 3D face generation with a restricted set of customization options.
• Non-Commercial: Suitable for personal projects and evaluation of the software, but not for commercial use.

Paid License:

• Commercial Use: Allows for generating and selling 3D face models for profit.
• Full Feature Set: Unlocks all features, including advanced customization options and export formats.
• Different License Tiers: May offer different tiers based on the Scale and scope of commercial use.

Ensure you choose the license that best aligns with your intended use to avoid any legal complications.

The video mentions that for commercial projects, the user needs to get a paid license of FaceGen.

Here's a table summarizing the main differences:

Automated 3D Model Generation

FaceGen excels in automatically creating 3D face models from 2D images. Its sophisticated algorithms analyze facial features and generate accurate 3D representations, saving time and effort compared to manual sculpting techniques. This automation makes 3D modeling more accessible to users with varying skill levels.

Comprehensive Customization

The software offers a wide array of customization options, allowing users to fine-tune various aspects of the generated models. You can adjust age, gender, race, and other detailed parameters to achieve the desired look. These customization tools provide precise control over the final output.

Versatile Export Options

FaceGen supports exporting models in multiple industry-standard formats, including OBJ. This versatility ensures compatibility with a wide range of 3D printing and modeling software. Exporting in OBJ format allows for seamless integration into various creative workflows.

3D Printing Personalized Figurines

One popular use case for FaceGen is creating personalized figurines. You can generate a 3D face model from photographs and then 3D print it to create unique gifts, keepsakes, or collectibles. These personalized figurines make Memorable presents for family, friends, or special occasions.

Developing Realistic Game Characters

Game developers utilize FaceGen to create realistic and diverse characters for their games. By generating 3D face models from reference images, developers can populate their virtual worlds with characters that closely Resemble real people. This level of realism enhances the overall gaming experience.

Creating Custom Avatars for VR/AR

In the realm of virtual and augmented reality, FaceGen is used to create custom avatars. These avatars allow users to represent themselves in virtual environments, fostering a sense of presence and connection. With FaceGen, users can easily generate avatars that reflect their unique appearance.