Gaussian splats are a 3D scene representation technique that uses millions of tiny, translucent ellipsoids, known as 3D Gaussians, to create photorealistic scenes. This method, also known as 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS), excels at rendering lifelike, natural-looking 3D scenes and subjects, offering a new way to create 3D models from a series of images. Unlike traditional methods using polygons or neural networks, Gaussian splats represent a scene with each splat carrying information about its position, color, size, and transparency; when viewed together they blend to replicate the original subject. This technique was revitalized in 2023 by researchers at Inria, offering real-time radiance field rendering.
Key features of Gaussian splats include the ability to capture geometry, lighting, and reflections with accuracy, and to render these scenes in real-time. The technique allows for realistic parallax effects, view-dependent effects, and proper occlusion handling, enhancing realism. Several tools are available for creating Gaussian Splats, including mobile apps like Scaniverse and Polycam. Scaniverse is unique in that it processes splats directly on the device, while other apps may upload data to the cloud. Support for Gaussian splats is also emerging in various software and game engines like Unreal Engine and Unity, with plugins available.
While the technique itself is free, the cost of professional 3DGS capture can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity and requirements of the project. Some software, like Polycam and Kiri Engine, offer paid subscriptions for accessing Gaussian Splatting features, with Kiri Engine costing $17.99 per month and Polycam costing $26.99 per month or $12.49 per month with a yearly subscription. A tool available from aescripts.com to import, manipulate, and render 3D Gaussian Splatting files inside After Effects in real-time with GPU costs $49. As a relatively new technology, Gaussian Splatting is continuously being improved, with potential for further advancements and wider integration into existing renderers.
