We get questions from users, 3D artists and designers asking how to make 3D models for the Movie Maker 3D app and thought a cheat sheet would be helpful. Models created with the recommended size, scale, texture images etc. makes adding them to scenes much easier.
We buy 3D models! We're interested in animated 3D modes especially human and animal characters, but non-animated models would also be great. Check the list of over 680 3D models in the Movie Maker 3D app to see our current list.
Human and animal characters with ARKit-compatible Face Blend Shapes are highly desirable for Movie Maker 3D users because they can add their own voice dialogue and face-tracking animations to the characters.
Here are the specifications for 3D models that work well in Movie Maker 3D:
Movie Maker 3D uses Apple's SceneKit rendering engine on all platforms: iPhone, iPad and Mac. Apple has written a description of what they recommend for USDZ models and SceneKit.
We have purchased and downloaded 3D models from Fab.com (formerly Sketchfab.com), CG Trader, TurboSquid and Adobe Stock. Please let us know where you post your 3D models. We’re always looking for more sources.
Here are some additional recommendations for all 3D models:
License: Standard (not Editorial Only)
Format: available in one or more of USDZ, GLB, OBJ and/or FBX (some sites provide automatic conversion to USDZ and GLB for 3D models).
Scale: 1 meter per unit preferred. Some sites will scale USDZ files to the standard 1 centimeter per unit.
A single PBR metalic material highly preferred, with PNG or JPG texture images, with 2048 size available (Some sites will downsample for USDZ and GLB).
Poly / polygon / triangle count: less 100K.
Center the model on 0,0 and make it's lowest Y position zero so it sits on the floor, not below it or floating above it.
Just one object in the model (e.g., not multiple chairs or tables).
Do not include nodes, meshes or materials for cameras, lights, floor, ground shadow, background or sky.
Here are some details for animated human and animal models:
Animations must be included in the model and clearly named (e.g., Run, Walk, Idle, etc.)
Facial animation is a big feature in Movie Maker 3D and we use Apple's ARKit ARFaceAnchor.blendShapes specification for blend shapes (morph targets). If you can include all 52 blend shapes, that will help make the the animation more expressive and realistic.
If you add any models to any source that you want us to see or have any questions send email to len.kawell@moviemaker3d.com or tap the Help (?) icon in the app and then Contact Developer. Thanks!