KeenTools has released FaceBuilder 2024.1 for Blender, the latest version of its popular automated head-generation plugin.
This update simplifies the process of creating a 3D head from photographs within Blender, allowing for one-click texture creation for the model.
It was released as part of KeenTools 2024.1, the latest version of KeenTools’ plugin suite, which also includes tracking add-ons like FaceTracker and GeoTracker.
Create Accurate 3D Reconstructions from Photos
Initially released for Nuke in 2018, and later available for Blender, FaceBuilder provides an easy method for creating textured models of actors’ heads from photographs.
The plugin automatically generates 3D geometry that matches the source images, giving users the ability to adjust the results by dragging ‘pins’ within the 3D viewport.
It can even work from a single image, or photos of faces in non-neutral expressions.
For facial animation, the plugin generates 51 built-in ARKit-compatible FACS blendshapes.
FaceBuilder 2024.1: Streamlined Workflow for Mesh Alignment and Texture Generation
FaceBuilder 2024.1 for Blender has a revamped UI and a core workflow designed to streamline the head creation process.
Key interface changes include grouping all mesh alignment controls in a single location, along with new buttons for rotating the head in the viewport, which speeds up work.
Face detection and mesh alignment are now automatic for the single-image-to-3D workflow, and creating textures for a 3D head from blended views now requires just one click.
You can see the current workflow in the new official tutorial video, embedded above.
Pricing and System Requirements
FaceBuilder 2024.1 is available for Blender 2.80+ on Windows, Linux, and macOS. This software is rental-only, and subscriptions also grant access to FaceBuilder for Nuke.
Individual Freelancer subscriptions cost $18/month or $179/year; floating Studio subscriptions cost $499/year.
Read an overview of the new features in FaceBuilder 2024.1 for Blender on KeenTools’ blog.
Read a full changelog for FaceBuilder and KeenTools.