Can I adjust the number of polygons in the mesh ?

The FaceGen default model set includes three skin resolutions. You can also download other model sets such as the Aqua or Icarus sets, which were created for game titles.

Further, you can use any meshes you want with FaceGen using the FaceGen Customizer. So if you have a head mesh with several LODs and other accessories (hairstyles, helmets), these can all be put into FaceGen.

Can I adjust the resolution of the exported texture maps ?

Yes. Choose a detail texture (1024x1024 and 2048x2048 detail textures are provided with Modeller) or use the photofit, which will allow up to 4096x4096 (if you have a very large source image).

Is FaceGen compatible with Daz3D & Poser ?

Not really. FaceGen Modeller exports to OBJ which is supported by Poser. In addition, Poser contains FaceGen data in the face room. However the default FaceGen mesh is not designed to work with Poser, and Poser cannot read FG files.

We will be releasing a product in late 2010 which is compatible with Daz3D & Poser.

Can I specify an exact pose for the face ?

Not numerically, however if you would like to take snapshots of many faces in an identical pose, you should save them all to FG files, position the face exactly as you want it using the mouse, then load each of the FG files in succession without moving the face.

Make sure to move the file open dialog box away from the viewport to avoid any accidental mouse clicks passing through to the viewport and changing the face pose.

Alternatively, you can export the desired face models and render them using 3D modelling/rendering software.

Can I export NURBS or Patch models ?

No, FaceGen can only output polygonal models. Of course these can be used as base meshes for subdivision.

Can I use FaceGen for my CNC / laser engraving / photolithography / solid imager ?

Yes, however you will not always get the same level of unique shape detail that you get with an actual 3D scanning device. FaceGen relies on the texture image to complete the illusion.

To evaluate the quality of the underlying shape on your own photographs, use the PhotoFit in the demo software, then from the 'View' menu, turn off 'Texture Mode' and turn on 'Shiny'.

To evaluate the workflow, download the sample export of the rapid prototype mesh in your desired format and give it a try.

Are there any plans for hair generation ?

We will be gradually adding more hair models, but more importantly, you can add your own hair models using the FaceGen Customizer.

Are there plans for a BodyGen ?

Not currently.

Is there a way to modify individual features without affecting anything else even slightly ?

Not currently, this is a result of the way our statistics are calculated. To achieve exact indpendence you'll have to manually blend the changed region into the original image or model outside of FaceGen.

Are there plug-in versions for Max or Maya ?

No plug-ins are planned at this time.

Are there any plans for a Mac version ?

Not currently. However customers have had success running Modeller in a virtual PC on Parallels or Mac VM. PhotoFit performance may be affected depending on the virtualized OpenGL support. Try out the free version to see if this works for you.

Can I install my copy of FaceGen Modeller on my laptop and at home ?

Yes, with a single license you can have multiple copies of Modeller installed as long as only 1 copy is being used at any given time (it's a trust-based system).

Is there a way to automatically generate and export face models ?

Yes, Windows automation utilities such as AutoIt and AutoHotKey (both free) or Macro Toolworks (from Pitrinec Software) can do many types of automation tasks.

What ages are supported by FaceGen ?

The age slider in the Modeller gives a range of 15 through 65 years old. This is the range in which age can reliably be controlled by that slider control. The PhotoFit can do a good job with faces from age 12 onward. We have no near- term plans to extend this age range.

Can I make a movie such as an AVI using Modeller ?

Yes, you can use screen recording software such as the free evaluation version of TechSmith Camtasia Studio to record any application or any window within an application as you use it.

Can I use a sketch or drawing of a face with the PhotoFit ?

The PhotoFit is unlikely to give the best results with sketches or drawings, but you can try. It can only do its best with real images which are taken according to our guidelines.

How do I animate the face ?

FaceGen is a static face modelling tool. It provides morph targets for animations, but no timeline data or motion data. There are many tools available to animate faces. A few can be found here.

Are there any publications on how FaceGen works ?

FaceGen uses a similar approach to Volker Blanz's paper from Siggraph '99, although the implementation differs in the details, and much additional work has been done to add features and allow integration in the character-creation pipeline.