The latest release of PFTrack 24.12.19 from The Pixel Farm brings significant updates to its scene-reconstruction capabilities, aiming to enhance efficiency and accuracy for VFX artists. This version focuses on overhauling the photogrammetry toolset, integrating machine-learning technologies to improve performance.
AI-Powered Photogrammetry Enhancements
The Photo Survey node now features a machine-learning-based feature matching engine, designed to be faster and more accurate than previous iterations. This enhancement is expected to streamline the process of reconstructing 3D scenes from still images or video footage, reducing manual intervention and potential errors.
Lidar-Quality Point Clouds
Updates to the Point Cloud node enable the generation of point clouds with Lidar-like quality. This improvement facilitates more precise scene reconstructions, providing a solid foundation for subsequent VFX work. Additionally, new tools have been introduced for cleaning up point clouds by manually removing unwanted points, offering artists greater control over their 3D data.
Workflow and Performance Improvements
The Match Camera functionality has received workflow and performance enhancements, contributing to a more efficient match-moving process. These updates are designed to reduce the time and effort required to align virtual cameras with live-action footage, a critical task in integrating CGI elements seamlessly.
USD Workflow Updates
PFTrack 24.12.19 also includes updates to USD (Universal Scene Description) workflows, with support for point-based geometry. This addition enhances compatibility with other digital content creation tools that utilize the USD format, promoting a more integrated pipeline for complex projects.
Pricing and Availability
PFTrack operates on a rental-only model. Personal subscriptions are available at £25/month (approximately $32/month). Enterprise subscription pricing is available upon inquiry through The Pixel Farm’s website, with reseller prices listed at around $1,125/year/seat. But contact them, because we didn’t find exact prices. Also, there are rumors of a 35 Dollars per month “Personal” License, which re available as an In-App-Purchase. Resellers are (Worldwide) toolfarm.com and in Germany our friends from DVE As
Stability Considerations
While these new features offer promising enhancements, it’s advisable to test PFTrack 24.12.19 in a controlled environment before deploying it in active production. Ensuring compatibility and stability within your specific workflow can prevent potential disruptions during critical project phases. A trial version is of course available.
For a visual overview of the new features, you can watch the official release video below:
