Deform it how? I'm not sure I follow.

Oh, that's a great idea. I'll definitely try it, while I wait for a Ruby or updated Photomatch in 7.x.
Wyatt

This question stems loosely from the Corner Bar discussion on "Other PhotoMatch Software."

Is there/could there be a Ruby to help match a model to a non-orthagonal photo?

Here's what I mean... Photomatch is a great tool, but a lot of what I do is in open fields where there are no buildings to reference a 90-degree corner from. There are sometimes features of the site, however, (distant houses, powerlines, an existing road) that could be used to create a make-shift 2-pt perspective. I'm aware of Smustard's 2ptPerspective.rb, although I haven't used it yet. I think it will do what I'm talking about here with lots of trial and error (ie. set a 2-pt scene, export to photoshop and overlay, go back to SU and adjust the location and re-export, repeat). I've done this same trial and error method to match models to other photos using the standard camera tools, and it's a huge pain. Would it be possible to write a script that referenced points in the photograph to create the 2-pt perspective? I've emailed Google for an answer to this, but I'm afraid they're going to come back with a "No, you can't do that...yet" response. Any thoughts?

Intersect w/ model. And then Hide or Erase the lines at the intersection.

Wyatt

Hello Daniel, and welcome to SCF! Can't help with the Vista problem, but I will echo the other praises for your presentations at 3DBC. When Google posts the sessions to YouTube I will definitely be rewatching them (and I encourage everyone who didn't attend to watch them too...invaluable information!).
Wyatt

Yes, very nice. They demo'ed a very similar process at 3DBC (minus the bump). I'm glad to have the steps written and illustrated. Thanks!
Wyatt

Another way would be to draw a line or construction line parallel to and at the appropriate distance from the object you're viewing, snap the camera to the end points, and set a scene at each location. You can adjust field of view and height at each camera position. There's a ruby at Smustard that shows you the position and view of your camera if you think that might help too.
Wyatt

At 3DBC Google people said that if you make a better model and upload it, they will review it just like any other GE model (review time 3-6 weeks). If they determine it really is better, they will replace the older version. If they don't accept it, they'll send you the standard Google "you can do better next time" email. I'm not aware of a way to communicate directly with the GE reviewers though. Good luck!
Wyatt

I unfortunately missed Andrew's presentation (we had a very short deadline to save the world in the "hands-on project" lab), but I did have an opportunity to meet him in the food line at Charlie's. I will look forward to a YouTube post of the presentation. And I expect to run into Andrew making more waves at some design/planning event in the future. Best wishes to you, Andrew!
Wyatt

Here are some of my 3DBC photos... http://picasaweb.google.com/wt.mh.ks/SketchUp3DBasecamp2008 I'll agree with everyone else who went...it was FANTASTIC! Google treated us all exceptionally well, the sessions were all great, and being surrounded by SketchUppers was pretty darn cool. Since I'm the only person in my office to use SketchUP, it was actually kind of odd at first to hear so many people talking about it all day long. I can't wait for the next one!

How cool, I made it into Todd's photo album! 3rd photo, blue shirt next to Coen at the bag check-in. I'll post some of my pics soon.
Wyatt

@unknownuser said:

I know, I know. I've already started on one!!
Todd

Good, we're looking forward to all the great ones you promised.
Wyatt

I'm at the Cupertino Inn...will be arriving around 4:00...so if I can arrange transportation to the Avante I'll be there.

Great advice...I was needing this question answered too.
Thanks!
Wyatt