What’s the difference between 360° photos and 3D models?
Here’s a quick breakdown of how 360° photos and 3D models differ:
| Feature | 360° Photos | 3D Models |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Static panoramic image from a fixed spot | Interactive, walkable digital twin |
| Capture Speed | ~10–15 mins per pano; 4–6 panos/hr | 2,000–6,000 sq ft/hr (condition-dependent) |
| Editing | Photoshop allowed post-shoot | No post-editing—spaces must be shoot-ready |
| Delivery Time | 2–3 weeks | 3–4 weeks |
| Recommended Spaces | Public areas, meeting rooms | Meeting rooms, guest accommodations |
*Open, furniture-free spaces shot with a Matterport Pro 3 can reach ~6,000 sq ft/hr. Access to a Pro 3 is not guaranteed—confirm with your Project Manager.*
Key Tip: 3D models are “what you see is what you get.” Please ensure every space is spotless, staged, and people-free before your shoot begins.
How should we prepare the property for a photoshoot?
To ensure a smooth and efficient shoot, both advance planning and on-site preparation are crucial.
Before the Shoot:
- Submit a complete list of all rooms and areas to be captured
- Share a floor plan (especially helpful for 3D modeling)
- Ensure all rooms and adjoining areas are accessible on the shoot day
- Notify staff in advance about the shoot schedule and locations
Day of the Shoot:
- All spaces must be clean, staged, and people-free
- No last-minute setups—being prepared speeds up the process
General Checklist for All Spaces:
- Clean floors (viewers can look down)
- Hide clutter (cords, bins, signage, gear, etc.)
- Use minimal staging; avoid elaborate decorations
- Ensure all lights are working; mood lighting is okay if it doesn’t hide details
- Showroom-ready styling: wrinkle-free linens, tidy surfaces, no distractions
What can I expect on the day of the shoot?
Arrival & Kickoff:
- For 360: Photographer will review the shot list
- For 3D: Photographer will request a full walk-through to confirm space readiness and shot planning
Space Readiness:
- All rooms must be fully clean, staged, and people-free
- Let your Project Manager know in advance if anything changes
- Staff should stay out of areas during active scanning
Support & Access Control:
- Assign a guide to escort the photographer (required for 360, recommended for 3D)
- If no escort is available for 3D, use signage or barriers to keep spaces clear
Shot Order & Timing:
- You can choose the order of rooms
- Notify us if rooms are spaced far apart—this impacts scheduling
- 360 Photos: ~10–15 minutes per shot
- 3D Models: 30 minutes to several hours depending on layout
Downtime Policy:
A $99/hour downtime fee applies if over 1 hour elapses between shots (excludes travel between distant locations).
What are the guide’s responsibilities?
- Stay for the full shoot—do not leave the photographer unattended
- Lead the photographer to every required room or area
- Verify each space is clean and ready before capture
- Unlock doors, coordinate with teams, and assist with any issues
- If multiple photographers are present, ensure multiple guides are available (your Project Manager will confirm this)
Best practices when capturing public spaces and meeting areas
- Schedule low-traffic windows: Choose time slots with minimal foot traffic
- Use minimal furniture and décor: Simple setups work best—avoid large centerpieces or clutter
- Communicate early: Alert staff and post signage if needed to redirect guests
- Final walk-through: Just before the crew arrives, confirm that lighting is ideal and all staging is in place