What is 3D Reality Capture?

Aug 18, 2026

Reality capture is the process of capturing the physical world into a digital 3D model.

Different technologies can be used to do this and each has its pro’s and con’s. LiDAR, Photogrammetry and Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) capture represent the real world in different ways.

LiDAR measures

Photogrammetry reconstructs

Gaussian Splatting renders

LiDAR

LiDAR measures the physical world directly. It is a light-based depth-measuring technology that operates on the Time of Flight (ToF) principle. It captures real-world geometry by emitting laser pulses and measuring the time it takes for them to return. Each measurement point has an precise position in 3D space (x, y, and z coordinates) and is used to construct a true-to-scale 3D model of the physical space.

Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry reconstructs 3D information from photographs. By comparing overlapping images from different viewpoints, it can estimate camera positions and reconstruct the geometry and appearance of an object or environment. It can capture fine visual detail, color, and texture, but the quality of the reconstruction depends on factors such as image overlap, lighting, and camera coverage. Absolute scale also requires additional reference information.

Gaussian Splatting (3DGS)

Gaussian Splatting takes a different approach. Instead of primarily creating a measurable surface, it represents a scene using many small 3D Gaussian primitives that are optimized to reproduce its appearance from different viewpoints. The result can be very realistic and interactive, which makes Gaussian Splatting interesting for visualization and immersive experiences.

Each of these technologies is therefore

Serving a different purpose

LiDAR is optimized for geometry and speed

Photogrammetry combines geometry and visual information

Gaussian Splatting is optimized for visual appearance

In practice, they don’t have to compete. Combining technologies can bring a stronger overall result. Using LiDAR as a base provides the geometric foundation and scale, while camera data adds color, texture, visual detail, and additional information for tracking and reconstruction.

Getting started

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