Mini World: How to Create a Scaled-Down Replica of a Real Building Using Drone Photogrammetry

Have you ever looked at a building and thought, "Wow, I wish I could make a tiny version of that"? Well—now you can! In this project, I’ll walk you through how to use a drone and photogrammetry to capture a real building or structure, turn it into a 3D model, and then 3D print a mini version you can hold in your hand.

All you need is a drone with a camera, some photos, and a bit of software magic using tools like Autodesk ReCap and Fusion 360. It’s a super fun way to combine technology, creativity, and a love for cool buildings.

Whether you’re into architecture, 3D printing, or just want to try something new and nerdy (in the best way), this project is for you.

Let’s shrink the world together—one building at a time!

️ Capture Tools:

1. Drone with a camera
2. Any drone that can take clear, high-resolution photos will work. (DJI Mini, Air, or similar models are great.)
3. A smartphone or controller app
4. To control your drone and preview your shots.

Software (mostly free or has trial versions):

1. Autodesk ReCap Photo (for photogrammetry)
2. This software turns your drone photos into a detailed 3D model.
3. Autodesk Meshmixer (for cleaning up the model)
4. Perfect for fixing holes and refining your 3D mesh.
5. Autodesk Fusion 360 (optional, for scaling or editing)
6. Gives you advanced control over your model’s size and shape.

Good news for students: All Autodesk software is free for students and educators! Just sign up with your school email to get access.

https://www.autodesk.com/education/free-software/overview

1. Cura, PrusaSlicer, or any 3D print slicer
2. To prepare your model for printing.

️ Printing Tools:

1. 3D Printer
2. Any FDM or resin printer that can handle fine details. Resin printers are especially good for capturing intricate architecture.
3. Filament or Resin
4. Choose your favorite material and color—or print in a neutral color to paint later.

Optional Finishing Supplies:

1. Sandpaper or files – For smoothing after printing.
2. Acrylic paints and brushes – To add color and details.
3. Glue (super glue or model cement) – If your print comes in parts.

Before you start snapping photos, a little planning goes a long way to get great results!

Choose Your Building or Structure:

Pick something that’s easy to access and safe to fly around. It should have interesting details on all sides since you’ll need photos from every angle. Good examples are small historic buildings, statues, fountains, or even your own house.

Check Local Rules:

Make sure you’re allowed to fly your drone in the area. Follow local drone regulations and respect privacy—don’t fly over people or private property without permission.

Plan Your Flight Path:

You want to capture the building from multiple angles with plenty of photo overlap (about 70–80%). Try flying in a circular pattern around the object at different heights—low, mid, and high. This ensures the photogrammetry software has enough information to create a detailed 3D model.

Set Your Camera Settings:

1. Use manual or semi-manual mode to keep consistent exposure.
2. Shoot in the highest resolution possible.
3. Avoid direct sunlight or harsh shadows for even lighting.

Take Lots of Photos:

Aim for at least 200–500 photos depending on the size and complexity of the building. More photos mean better detail but longer processing time.

Safety First:

Always keep your drone in sight and be mindful of obstacles like trees, wires, or people.

Once you have all your photos, you’re ready for Step 2: turning those images into a 3D model!

Now that you have all your drone photos, it’s time to turn those images into a detailed 3D model!

1. Upload Photos to Autodesk ReCap Photo:

1. Go to Autodesk ReCap Photo and create a free account if you don’t have one.
2. Start a new project and upload all your photos. The software will process them into a 3D mesh.
3. This can take from a few minutes to a few hours depending on how many photos you uploaded and your internet speed.

2. Review the Model:

1. Once processing is complete, explore the 3D model in the viewer.
2. Check for missing areas or distortions. If there are big gaps, you might need to take more photos and repeat Step 1.

3. Export Your Model:

1. Export the 3D model as an OBJ or STL file, which are standard formats for 3D printing.

4. Clean and Repair the Model:

1. Import your file into Autodesk Meshmixer or Fusion 360.
2. Use the software tools to:
3. Fill holes or gaps in the mesh.
4. Remove any unwanted parts (like ground or background objects).
5. Simplify the mesh if it’s too heavy for your printer.

5. Scale the Model:

1. Adjust the size of your model to fit your 3D printer bed and your desired scale.
2. Keep proportions correct to preserve the building’s look.

Once your model is cleaned and scaled, you’re ready for Step 3: preparing it for 3D printing!

You’ve got your cleaned and scaled 3D model — now it’s time to bring it into the physical world with 3D printing!

1. Choose Your Printer and Material:

1. FDM printers (using filament) are great for larger, less detailed prints.
2. Resin printers offer much finer detail and are perfect for capturing intricate architectural features.

2. Slice Your Model:

1. Open your model in a slicer software like Cura, PrusaSlicer, or your printer’s default slicer.
2. Set your layer height for the best balance between detail and printing time (e.g., 0.1 to 0.2 mm for FDM, 0.025 to 0.05 mm for resin).
3. Add supports if needed, especially for overhangs or delicate parts.

3. Print Your Model:

1. Start the print and keep an eye on the first few layers to ensure good adhesion and accuracy.
2. Printing time will depend on the model size and your printer settings.

4. Post-Processing:

1. For FDM prints: carefully remove supports, sand rough edges, and clean the surface.
2. For resin prints: wash in isopropyl alcohol, cure under UV light, and remove supports gently.
3. Paint your miniature with acrylics if you want to add color and detail.

Now that your mini masterpiece is printed, let’s make it shine!

1. Smoothing the Surface (Optional):

If you want a cleaner, more polished look:

1. Lightly sand your print using fine-grit sandpaper (start with 220 and move up to 400–600).
2. For resin prints, sanding is usually minimal — just be gentle.

2. Painting Your Model (Optional but Fun!):

1. Use acrylic paints and small brushes for details.
2. Start with a base coat or primer to help paint stick better.
3. Use reference photos of the original building to match colors, or get creative with your own color scheme!
4. Dry brushing and washes can help bring out tiny architectural details.

3. Adding a Base or Plaque (Optional):

1. You can model and print a simple stand or platform for your mini building.
2. Add a label or nameplate with the building’s name, location, or a fun fact!

4. Display It!

1. Your mini building makes a great desk piece, gift, teaching aid, or part of a miniature city.
2. You can even create a collection by scanning more buildings in your area!

Congratulations — you just turned a real-world building into a tiny 3D-printed replica using drone photogrammetry! 🎉

This project combines flying, photography, 3D modeling, and printing into one creative and super satisfying process. Whether you did it to preserve a place you love, explore architecture in a new way, or just make something cool, you now have a miniature piece of the world — made by you.