Photomatching in SU Pro 8 has become a lot more complicated

Reneey · 10 Nov 2010, 10:34

Maybe I'm doing this the wrong way round but I'm trying to match a jpeg using the 'New Match Photo' onto the front of my model and then adjust so that the perspective is right. However the image comes in in the background and much larger than the model which is in front. The red green vanishing points seem to move the model not the image. How do I resize and position/project the image onto the model (couldn't find push pins). Also how do I escape back to original position when I've totally mucked up the perspective. I've tried deleting the scene but doesn't delete the skewed perspective which means closing the file and starting again.

Dave R · 11 Nov 2010, 01:15

I haven't noticed that PhotoMatch is any different in SU8 compared to previous versions. The trick with PhotoMatch is that you are trying to adjust the SketchUp 'camera' to match the camera used to make the photo. So, as you move the vanishing points and other setup controls, you will indeed change the appearance of the model.

I find it easier to set up the photo in a separate SKP file and then scale it to the right size before copying the model and pasting it into this file. TO scale the photo after you've set the lines and so on, draw a line along something in the photo for which you know the length. Use the Tape Measure tool to measure that line being sure you click at both ends. Type the length it should be and hit enter. SketchUp will ask if you want to resize the model. Click 'Yes'. Now bring in the model and place it where you need it.

Reneey · 11 Nov 2010, 10:33

Dave Thank you for your helpful response. What you suggest sounds like it makes sense, i'm going to try this on a practice model. My model has lots of groups and components and is now running very slow despite single faces and lowest polygon counts therefore didn't think it would paste too well into another file. I think I understand the process now but can you tell me, is there anyway to escape out of the process putting the model back to its starting viewpoint without closing the file and not saving?

Dave R · 11 Nov 2010, 12:27

You could create a Scene to make a view you can go back to.

When you import the image for PhotoMatch, SU creates a scene that places the camera so it is looking at the photo. That will be the only view in which you can see the image. If you sample the image to apply it to your model, then you'll be able to see the "image" from different angles because it is now applied materials.

As to your model running slow, have you tried purging unused components and materials? Do you already have a lot of materials applied in your model?

Reneey · 11 Nov 2010, 17:54

Of course I didn't think about going back to previous scenes!

I've used exterior materials brick, stone, wood, and yes some 3d trees. I will try purging components but have been quite careful to delete what's not needed. Its almost finished now as I don't think it can cope with much more. Thanks again I found your suggestions useful.