3D Printing is Changing the Way We Make Movies

April 21, 2023

3D printing has made a big impact on the motion picture and television production industry. Creators are using 3D printing for a wide range of applications, including costumes, props, and set design. 3D-printed props and costumes have been featured in Guardians of the Galaxy, Black Panther, the Force Awakens, and other blockbuster movies.

What is 3D Printing?

What is 3D printing? 3D printing is an additive manufacturing process that is used to create a 3D object based on a digital file or scans of a physical object. During the 3D printing process, materials are added layer by layer until the object achieves its desired form. There are many types of 3D printing: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Stereolithography (SLA) are the ones most commonly used by the film industry.

3D Printing in Film and Television Production

3D printing provides many benefits to film and television producers. Traditionally, the props and costumes used in science fiction and fantasy movies were created by hand. More recently, producers have turned to CGI. However, CGI is expensive, time-consuming, and may not be wholly convincing.

3D printers can be used to create the same pieces in less time and with less cost than these older methods. And 3D printing can achieve the level of complexity, detail, and realism that today’s moviegoers demand. Because it’s more cost-effective than other methods, 3D printing is ideal for independent productions with limited budgets.

Texas Film and TV Producers Can Benefit From 3D Printing

There are currently more than 210 production companies based in Texas. In addition to film and television production, there are also many commercial production companies and advertising agencies headquartered here in the Lone Star state. Many are located right here in Houston.

If you’re a Texas-based filmmaker looking for ways to stretch a budget, 3D printing may be the solution to your problem. ProTek Models and 3D Printing provides outstanding 3D print services to production companies all over the state. We have the capability to 3D print just about any prop, costume, special effects makeup, animation figures, and set pieces you may require.

In addition to 3D-printed props, costumes, and set pieces, ProTek also creates highly detailed scale models. While CGI effects can be impressive, they can’t beat the realistic look of an actual physical model. We have extensive experience in this area, having built scale models for clients in the automotive, aerospace, and defense industries.

3D Printing in Houston, TX for a Wide Range of Industries

Are you getting started on a 3D print project?  Give ProTek Models and 3D Printing a call. Our team of designers and engineers is here to help you every step of the way. From rapid prototyping to custom automotive parts, we have the experience and equipment to handle just about any 3D print job.

Located just outside of Houston in Conroe, TX, ProTek Models provides 3D print, urethane casting, and custom scale model construction services to businesses all over Texas. Contact us through our website or call ProTek Models at (832) 968-6636 to discuss your project and receive a free quote.