How to use a handheld 3D scanner

Using a 3D scanner to create a digital scan of a bust of a head, by Paul Hatton
(Image credit: Paul Hatton)

The 3D scanning market can be pretty confusing at times. The number of different ways to 3D scan an object seems to increase with every passing year, and what was initially something only for the professionals is becoming available to the masses, with the best 3D scanners being more accessible than ever.

Not to add to the confusion but to explain the complexity at play, there are photogrammetry apps, laser scanners, structured light scanners, mobile scanners and even contact-based scanning technology. Each option comes with a plethora of hardware types and workflows. Suffice to say it’s not particularly straightforward, and you’d be forgiven for being confused when finding your way into the market. 

Paul Hatton, a photo of a smiling man
Paul Hatton

Paul is a digital expert. In the 20 years since he graduated with a first-class honours degree in Computer Science, Paul has been actively involved in a variety of different tech and creative industries that make him the go-to guy for reviews, opinion pieces, and featured articles. With a particular love of all things visual, including photography, videography, and 3D visualisation Paul is never far from a camera or other piece of tech that gets his creative juices going. You'll also find his writing in other places, including Creative Bloq, Digital Camera World, and 3D World Magazine.

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