Professional 3D Body Scanning for Fashion, Costume & Digital Applications
in Los Angeles
We provide high-resolution 3D body scanning services
for garment development, custom dress forms, digital avatars, and research applications.
Each scan captures accurate body geometry, posture, and proportions
to support both physical and digital workflows.
What is 3D scanning?
A 3D body scan captures the full surface geometry of a person’s body in three dimensions.
It records shape, proportions, posture, and natural asymmetries.
This digital model becomes the foundation for multiple applications:
- Custom dress forms
- Digital avatars
- Digital pattern-making and fitting
- Virtual garment simulation
- Body analysis and comparison
- Research and development
Learn more about
custom dress forms from 3D scans
Our areas of expertise
3D scanning and analysis of people and objects for fashion/apparel/costume/art applications
3D scanning for dress forms
In the context of dress form production, 3D body scanning involves more than recording surface geometry. The experience of the technician plays an important role: from selecting the scanning pose and guiding the client through the scan to processing the resulting data with an understanding of how to handle body areas that are critical for fitting. All of these elements define how helpful the resulting dress form will be.
3D scanning for software
3D scanning for the creation of a digital avatar follows its own set of requirements. A key factor is understanding how avatar and visualization software interprets mesh structure, topology, and surface continuity. Scan data must be prepared with these constraints in mind to ensure the resulting 3D model performs correctly in virtual fashion and pattern-making applications.
3D scanning for R&D
3D scanning is a powerful tool for data acquisition and analysis. Exploring fit across different body types, analyzing changes over time, and gaining insights into the effects of shapewear can drive better product design and provide clothing brands with a competitive edge. It also allows designers to make informed decisions based on precise measurements and real-world body data, rather than assumptions or averages.
3D scanning for ART
Capturing precise three-dimensional data of historical objects enables detailed study and long-term preservation. Similarly, digitizing the first drafts of future art pieces opens new possibilities for creators, allowing them to experiment, iterate, and share their work in ways that were not possible with traditional methods. 3D scanning supports both the conservation of cultural heritage and the exploration of new creative approaches.
How the 3D Scanning Process Works
We use engineering-grade 3D scanner to capture the body geometry with precision
Preparation
Before the appointment, clients receive clear preparation guidelines.
Instructions are also available on the “What to Wear”,“Preparing for 3D Scan” and “Medical Considerations” pages.
Proper preparation improves scan clarity and reduces post-processing adjustments.
During the Scan
- The scanning appointment takes place at our scanning studio in Los Angeles or at the client’s site and typically lasts 30 min to 90 minutes (depending on the selected service).
- The client stands in a neutral, balanced position. We provide clear guidance to make sure it’s the best stance for the client’s application.
- The capture takes 3-6 minutes, and we take 3-4 scans (with resting time in-between).
- The scanning process is static and non-contact.
- We take a few control measurement with a traditional tape for cross-checking some areas (range of movement associated with breathing)
- No radiation is involved – only regular white light, similar to a photo-flash.
- The system records full-body surface geometry with high accuracy.
- All scans are performed in a private environment. The scan data is not shared with any third-parties.
After the Scan
The raw scan data is processed into a clean 3D body model.
Standard processing typically includes:
- Surface cleanup& Mesh optimization
- Clearing underarm and inner-thigh areas
- Controlled smoothing of undergarment lines
Additional processing may includes:
- Symmetry adjustment (if selected)
- Optional shaping for corsetry or structured garments
Output files can be prepared for:
- Dress form production
- 3D garment (virtual fashion) software
- Digital archiving
- Technical analysis
What You Receive
Depending on your selection, you may receive:
- A report with key-measurements and screenshots of your 3D model
- A cleaned 3D body model (typically in .obj or .stl file formats)
- The 3D model as a rigged avatar for CLO3D
- Optional analysis files (comparison, visualization, overlays)
The same base scan can support both digital and physical applications.
Custom Digital Avatars & 3D Models
for CLO3D, Gerber, Optitex, Lectra and other software packages
A 3D body scan can be converted into a digital avatar for use in pattern-making and virtual fashion software.
The custom avatar represents the actual body geometry of the scanned individual.
It can be used for:
- Digital Pattern-making
- Virtual garment simulation
- Fit evaluation on a specific person
- Design refinement
- Remote review workflows
- Fit model digitization for brands
Basic smoothing and preparation are included in standard processing.
Advanced digital edits, such as symmetry correction or specialized shaping, are available as optional services and priced separately based on scope.
For fashion brands and technical teams
Digital avatars from 3D body scans creates alignment between:
Equipment and accuracy
Overview
For our scanning process we utilize the Artec Eva Light 3D scanner, a professional-grade engineering tool.
- Sub-millimeter accuracy (0.01 mm!)
- Locally-run software (no AI, no data-sharing)
- Full control over data processing (no outsourcing, no AI-unpredictability)
We also utilize multiple professional software packages to fine-tune 3D models through digital sculpting and other advanced techniques.
3D Scanning vs Measurements
Traditional body measurements record individual distances or circumferences at specific points on the body. They describe size, but they do not capture the actual geometry of the body surface.
Even when a large number of measurements are taken (for example 30 to 50 measurements) the body is still represented only by that limited set of numerical values. However, they do not record the shape of curves, the distribution of volume between those points, or the precise spatial relationship between measurements.
A 3D body scan records the entire surface geometry of the body as a digital model. Every curve, contour, and proportion is preserved, along with posture and natural asymmetries.
Other Ways to Create a 3D Body Model
A professional 3D scan is the most reliable way to capture accurate body geometry, but it is not the only method available. Body models can also be reconstructed from measurements and photos, generated using mobile scanning apps, created with AI reconstruction tools, or produced by third-party scanning providers.
Each approach has different levels of accuracy, repeatability, cost, and privacy considerations.
Some methods can produce useful results for visualization or early design work, while others may introduce noticeable deviations from the actual body shape.
For a detailed comparison of these methods, including manual reconstruction, phone-based scanning apps, AI-generated models, and third-party scans, please check back soon: we are preparing a dedicated page:
→ Other Methods of Creating a 3D Body Model
(the data has been collected and analyzed, and we are working on visual presentation to share)
This guide will explain how each method works, what level of accuracy to expect, and when it may be appropriate to use them instead of a professional scan.
Who Uses 3D Body Scanning
3D body scanning is used across multiple industries and individual applications.
Individuals use scans for custom dress forms and remote garment production.
Costume production teams use scans to create body doubles and prepare complex garments.
Tailors and bespoke ateliers use scans to improve accuracy and reduce repeated fittings.
Fashion brands use scans to digitize fit models and support consistent development.
Research and development teams use scans for body comparison, deformation studies, and technical analysis.
App developers use professional 3D scans for establishing a baseline for comparing and and evaluate their outputs.
Pricing Overview
Pricing depends on:
- Full body vs torso scan
- Intended application (dress form, digital use, analysis)
- Level of digital editing required
- Optional advanced adjustments
Basic processing is included in standard scan services. Advanced edits are priced separately.
For detailed pricing information, please contact us.
If you are unsure which option applies to your project, contact us to discuss the scope of work.
Medical Considerations
The scanning process is completely safe unless you have specific contraindications to either flashing lights or to standing for a few minutes. Please see Medical Considerations page for more information.