7 Best 3D Virtual Photography Software SDKs

A MIT study revealed that the human brain can process images in just 13 milliseconds. So, product images give your customers a first impression of your brand quality and products at just a glance. As an e-commerce owner, you may dread traditional product photography sessions, as they are expensive and time-consuming. From planning to post-production editing, traditional photography requires a significant amount of time for product image generation.

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That is where 3D virtual photography comes in. If you want to give life to your products with visuals, rely on 3D technology to release the burden of traditional photo shoots. 3D virtual photography brings accuracy in product depiction, which directly impacts purchases and returns. Research shows that 22% of online shoppers return items because they look different in person.

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Therefore, you require high-quality product imagery that provides consumers with a detailed view. Good news is: I have done my research and testing to put together a list of the 7 best 3D virtual photography software for your e-commerce platform. I hope it will help you on your way to creating product visuals and marketing campaigns. 

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7 Best 3D virtual photography software SDK providers

1. GlamAR (Best for multi-purpose 3D model)
2. KiXR (Best for 3D model development & 3D display)
3. Zakeke (Best for product customization)
4. PICTOFiT by Reactive Reality (Best for easy-to-use CMS)
5. Modelry (Best for advanced 3D viewer)
6. ThreeKit (Best for visual configurators)
7. Emersya (Best for 3D room planner)

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Glance at the table of the 7 best 3D virtual photography software SDK providers

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What is 3D virtual photography?

3D virtual photography is the art of creating an image with the help of CAD software. It generates realistic, photo-like visuals without the need for professional photographers and physical equipment. The 3D technology uses lighting, 3D models, and rich textures to produce 3D virtual images. It requires only a 3D artist’s time, skill, and the right software SDK. Virtual photography represents real-world imagery through the lens of a camera. 

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While there is no physical camera, 3D virtual photography uses virtual cameras to simulate real-world photography perspectives. You only need a computer, combined with 3D models and 2D graphics. Plus, an artful lighting will blend all components together. With modern tools and GPU acceleration, real-time or near-real-time rendering is possible, especially for interactive platforms.

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Best 3D virtual photography software SDK providers

No matter if you have a big or small brand, online 3D assets are essential to ensure brand consistency across marketing initiatives. To bring 3D virtual photography into effect, you will need a software SDK provider. I tested and evaluated many platforms to discover the best ones for your e-commerce. Here are the software SDKs that came out on top: 

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1. GlamAR

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If you find traditional photoshoots expensive for your business, GlamAR’s 3D virtual photography will be an excellent choice. It has a lot of 3D solutions that many brands find enticing. Using 3D virtual photography, you can provide your customers with an interactive shopping experience. Now, they can see products from every angle with 3D details across all channels. 

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Integrate the software into your brand’s online platform and turn your 2D product images into high-quality 3D visuals. Follow simple steps to get photorealistic product images in minutes: Upload standard images> Transform into 3D with GlamAR’s 3D models> Get 5 SILO scenes and 5 creative lifestyle renders per product for ready-to-use visuals. 

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I tried the virtual 3D products on this platform, and it offered an in-store-like experience. As I can rotate the product, it allows me to understand the product details, like size, shape, texture, color, etc. The 3D product view will help shoppers make a confident purchase. 

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Features: 

• Easy-to-customize: The software enables brand owners to control and customize their product’s appearance. No matter if you want to change the color or background of your products, it allows you to update your products’ visuals at any time straight from GlamAR’s website. You can get a set of clean background shots and lifestyle images. 

• Multi-purpose 3D model: It enables you to create multiple images of your product from different angles and with various backgrounds, all from a single 3D model. Apart from photos, you can use the 3D model in online ads, social media posts, email campaigns, or in-store digital displays. 

• 360° view of the unlimited products: When it comes to displaying multiple products with different sizes, shapes, colors, etc., GlamAR helps you display your extensive product catalog with a 360° view. You can showcase the products in various settings or environments, including indoor and outdoor locations. 

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2. KiXR

KiXR’s appeal starts with interactive 3D experiences across e-commerce channels. It offers 3D model development, 3D displays, 3D configurators, and 3D try-on solutions with the help of AI and automation. You can add its 3D solutions to your e-commerce websites and apps. Equipped with a large team of 3D artists and domain expertise, KiXR provides ultra-realistic 3D scenes. 

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It is important to note that KiXR has launched SRD (Spatial Reality Display). You can display your vast collections in every store without physical inventory. Now, your customers can experience the minute details of the jewelry, watches, and other luxurious products in-store. They can configure and personalize the products in a digital realm before placing an order online. 

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To develop 3D models, you need to send the reference 2D images or CAD files along with the product dimensions. For a desired 3D scene: You must give the 3D team a concept note. I have tried and tested its 3D visuals for different products, like eyewear, jewelry, and furniture. I can rotate the product to see it from every angle.

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Features: 

• 3D product visualization: The software can add 3D technology to the photos and videos of your products. Plus, you can customize the 3D experiences and offer your customers a real-time visual. 
• In-store 3D zone: Your customers can experience a 360-degree view of your products with intricate details through the 3D solutions on SRDs. You can showcase your extensive product collections as endless aisles. Now, shoppers can also see out-of-stock products. 
• 3D visual configurators: Brand owners can present their digital products, just like the physical ones, with 3D technology. KiXR offers an easy plug-and-play integration into all e-commerce platforms. The built-in analytics provide insight into your customers’ journey and preferences. 

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3. Zakeke

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Zakeke is a powerful AI model for e-commerce. It brings 3D effects to your static product images. Now, you can enhance your product representation with highly realistic 3D solutions. The software makes it easy to create a 3D catalog. Plus, you can manage and share 3D models with AR visualization. Sync it with your PIM, store, and B2B platform. Reduce your return rates with the product personalizer. 

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It gives your customers instant 2D, 3D, and AR product previews. Use this e-commerce customization tool to offer them unlimited options, from text and image edits to realistic effects for DTG, sublimation, and more. Let your customers design and customize the products online. It will keep you hassle-free and save you time. The software can connect multiple stores and allow you to offer a range of customizations. 

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As a fashion and luxury brand owner, you can use the 3D digital asset manager to display numerous styles in 3D. It is easy to set up and requires no IT skills. Add it to your e-commerce website and track the performance analysis of 3D models. Unlike other software solutions, I found it easy to store, manage, and share 3D models with no code, using the 3D viewer. 

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Features: 

• 3D model creation: You need to upload 2D images to get 3D models. It allows you to display dozens of variants in seconds. Also, you can use dynamic marketing materials, such as automated 360° GIFs and videos, to empower campaigns and enhance customer engagement.

• 3D operations optimization: Furniture and home decor brand owners can manage an unlimited number of 3D models with minimal effort. Zakeke’s 3D DAM offers easy bulk edits and endless storage. Thus, you can optimize your operational efficiency. 

• 3D customization: The 3D Configurator with advanced CPQ software lets your customers customize with tailored components, materials, and styles. You can integrate it with just a click into the best platforms and apps. 

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4. PICTOFiT by Reactive Reality

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PICTOFiT is a family of AI models from Reactive Reality. It is a virtual styling software for e-commerce. If you add it to your business platform, your shoppers can have an interactive shopping experience for product discovery with fun and delight. As a fashion brand owner, you can create digital assets of virtual try-on experiences using the PICTOFiT CMS. I have found PICTOFiT Content Management System as a perfect tool for fashion designers, product managers, e-commerce, and retail professionals. 

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It is capable of transforming traditional photos into 3D or 2D virtual images. Now, you can digitize your product catalog for a virtual fitting room or virtual fashion photography. Plus, it allows you to display unlimited outfits and model combinations in real or virtual scenes. Most importantly, fashion brands and retailers can incorporate 3D virtual try-on technology into their webshop with PICTOFiT Web SDK. 

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PICTOFiT 3D Capture Service helps you create 3D models of your garments, using a 3D capture kit. Photogrammetry and AI power 3D models of physical fashion and apparel products. It enables me to experience your clothing in real time and get accuracy with lifelike 3D representations. I can rotate the 3D clothes to check them from every angle. 

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Features:

• 3D model generation: To get 3D virtual images that shoppers can interact with, you need to scan your clothing products with a 3D capture kit. You can use them for virtual try-on or sizing. Also, you can present the photos on your website, online store, or social media channels. It is a simple and automatic process. Learn more about how to scale your products in realistic 3D models. 

• Easy-to-integrate SDK: The web SDK follows industry-standard languages (HTML5, SWIFT/Objective-C, JAVA) and is available for Shopify. It is compatible across all common browsers and operating systems. Your customers can experience the 3D products from mobile, desktop, tablet, and other devices. 

• Product digitization: It helps fashion and retail businesses digitize their products. For virtual fashion photography: Transform conventional product photos into 2D or 3D digital assets. Upload your product images> Fit them onto a model avatar or mannequin>Create virtual fashion images for your catalog. Here, you need to use existing ghost mannequin photos, 3D scans, or CAD files to capture your product catalog.

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5. Modelry

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Modelry is a full-scope platform for 3D transformation. It offers a self-service tool to order, manage, and publish custom 3D models. Now, you can allow customers to view products from any angle, spin them around for a 360-view, and zoom in and out for more detail. In this manner, you can create an interactive shopping experience through your e-commerce channels with 3D virtual product imagery. 

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The best part is: Brand owners can deploy the 3D models in the virtual worlds, such as the Metaverse and the Omniverse. If I were running an e-commerce site, I would order its 3D assets for interactive ads. Also, I could store, manage, and distribute those assets through the DAM system. It will fulfill your complex 3D media needs. 

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The software specializes in creating hundreds of product variations from a single 3D model. Plus, it comes with flexibility: You can adjust design parameters, such as color, size, or material of your product. Apart from 3D model creation, use this technology in 3D viewers, configurators, AR shopping experiences, and lifestyle scenes. 

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Features: 

• 3D virtual product photography: It enables retailers to create a rich product image library from a single 3D model. Instead of a traditional photoshoot, you can create multiple 3D images in any setting, environment, or angle. 

• Automatic 3D viewer: Let your customers know the product details with an HD 360-degree viewer. For a virtual try-on experience for the shoppers, you can upgrade it with AR mode. With interactive workflows, like 3D animations, your customers can auto-rotate and see it in action. They can peer inside the product and move around the elements.

• Customized solutions: You can use advanced features, such as animation, background changer, auto play, tone mapping, etc., to customize the 3D viewer. Like other platforms, you need to copy-paste the code into the backend of your e-commerce platform if you want to add the feature-rich software to your business site. 

6. ThreeKit

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It offers AI visuals for e-commerce brands. The software can generate thousands of photorealistic product images. It helps your customers easily find your catalog and enables you to provide them with personalized product recommendations. Threekit is a feature-packed software solution that allows your shoppers to easily configure and purchase. They can combine multiple products, based on their specific needs. 

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I have tested and tried the product configurator and virtual photographer. It is so much better than other platforms. Consumers can customize the products in a perfect way. For example, they can change the color, design, and clothing material. Threekit is an enterprise-grade solution for visual commerce. You can connect your product systems, create visuals, and sell them in any channel, from this one platform. 

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For a seamless experience, consider introducing an omnichannel product distribution engine that operates across both online and offline channels. Guided and bundled buying solutions would be an added advantage for your shoppers. Allow them to make a technical purchase with visual prompts and to receive input. Plus, the software will suggest to them the perfect products, pairing with their outfit or any other purchase. 

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Features: 

• Visual configurator: It aids you in turning your product data into 3D visuals that will make you sell custom products with ease. You can merge your product catalog with 3D designs and features through the Threekit SDK. It will enable you to showcase numerous configurations to your customers. 

• 3D digital asset management: The user guide for every unique feature, such as 3D format support, professional touch-up tools, and automatic CAD importing, is easy to follow. Most importantly, you can organize and access your assets in one place. 

• Virtual photography: You can present your products to the consumers with virtual photography-based visual configurators. It lets you incorporate your products into a real-world setting with lifestyle shots. You can use silhouette shots to set up your products with a white background. Follow Threekit’s ‘Getting Started’ guide to integrate these features into your e-commerce platform. 

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7. Emersya

It is an all-in-one online 3D and AR platform for retailers and brand owners. Emersya offers 3D product experiences, 3D product photography, 3D product customizers, and 3D product configurators. As an e-commerce owner, you can embed the 3D players into your website or other platform with no plug-in. Plus, you can use tags to add the technology to your website. 

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The main reason to use Emersya is that you can choose languages and customize your 3D viewer. It is possible to turn 3D assets into 3D and AR experiences for your customers, using this software. If you want to automate and scale your product imagery, use 3D models to create lifelike 3D product photography for all SKUs. The best part is: One 3D model has unlimited possibilities. 

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I have found the product customizer very useful and engaging. It allows me to create unique products according to my style and preferences. Interestingly, I can experience an unlimited number of product visuals with intricate detailing. It boosts buyers’ confidence with less return tendency. Explore Emersya’s advanced features for your fashion and footwear brands. 

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Features: 

• 3D product photography: The software supports any SKU, viewpoint, lighting, scenery, pose, or state, and any model. So, you can generate product images online anytime, from anywhere, with virtual photography. You can also create presets to automate content generation for every sales channel and distributor, using the platform. 

• 3D visualization: Your customers can experience your products from every angle. Plus, they can zoom in on all the infinite details to get a real feel for the product materials. The easy SKU setup process enables you to offer your customers AR try-ons of your 3D products. 

• 3D space: The real-time 3D room planner allows consumers to see how different products would look together in a custom space. They can browse products from your catalog. Then, drag and drop them into their preset 3D space. Consumers can position and configure each product through this interactive user interface. In the same way, they can experience modular products in a 3D viewer. 

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Other platforms that you can explore for 3D virtual photography

While the platforms listed above are some of the best 3D virtual photography software SDKs, they are not the only ones. Based on your business needs and preferences, the following alternative may work better for you.

• Obsess: If you want a virtual store platform, Obsess allows you to create a 3D virtual store of your brand. Consumers can access the virtual store through a link on your e-commerce website via mobile or desktop. You can customize your store with Shopify product catalog and provide your shoppers with an interactive online shopping experience. 

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Popular brands that are using 3D virtual photography software

Nowadays, brands are selling experiences, not just products. This evolution fuels the increasing interest in 3D virtual photography, which blends photorealistic 3D visualizations to replace traditional photography.

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It is becoming a time and cost-effective process, which provides ease of customization and consistency in incredible product images. Here is how some of the well-known brands are using 3D virtual photography software as one key pillar in their business strategy:

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1. Nike

Nike is ahead of the pack when it comes to adopting future-forward retail technology. Nike, known for innovation, uses 3D virtual photography to enable customers to see and customize products in real time.

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For instance: ‘Nike by You platform, where customers can customize their sneakers with many colors and textures they choose. They can also visualize the 3D render before buying. 

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2. Apple

Apple utilizes a significant amount of 3D virtual photography to showcase its products. From iPhones to MacBooks, the Apple website contains countless 3D-rendered and rotatable images of products.

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These images serve more than the purpose of looking pretty; they help the consumer make purchasing decisions. Also, Apple has created AR previews of products in the Apple Store app. It enables consumers to see products through 3D tools.

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3. Rollie Nation

Using 3D virtual photography to improve the online shopping experience is something Australian footwear brand Rollie Nation has embraced. As captured by Modelry.ai, Rollie has partnered with some 3D artists to design animations for their best-selling sneakers. 

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This enhancement significantly reduced studio costs, enabling increased product launches across multiple colors and angles. It is an added advantage for a fast-moving fashion brand with an evolving catalog. Rollie Nation CEO Vince Lebanon explains his experience:

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I believe that 3D had a significant part to play because people thought it was super cool. They could spin it around, they could see it in their space. It’s a great way to showcase our new designs and amplify the new product offering.

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4. Vitra

The luxury furniture brand Vitra configures products online in real-time 3D. Customers can view hyper-realistic room scenes on the company's website, which allows them to visualize products in their own surroundings and determine the actual fit, size, and design.

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Using their existing 3D models, digital materials, and configuration logic in the OFML data format, Vitra has set up a highly efficient workflow for creating interactive 3D configurators on the Emersya Platform. It offers online and in-store product customization experiences with Emersya’s Interactive 3D viewers. Plus, it helps e-commerce owners maximize their usable content.

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5. KitchenAid

KitchenAid, the famous kitchen appliance company, can create interactive 3D previews for every refrigerator model in their ‘built-in’ range. They utilize Emersya’s technology to enable online customers to visualize refrigerators in various kitchen settings. They can choose the color, materials of cabinet units, and exterior of the refrigerator with confidence.

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The technology enables consumers to get a showroom-like experience through 3D animations. Its multilingual annotations are an added advantage for your customers.  They can receive detailed insights into the products and their advanced features. 

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Benefits & drawbacks of 3D virtual photography software SDKs

In the e-commerce realm, how a product is displayed can differentiate between a sale and a missed opportunity. Consequently, new 3D virtual photography SDKs are emerging that eliminate the need for physical cameras and create stunning images in real time.

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These SDKs facilitate AR/VR interactions, enabling dynamic product display or customization. Despite all the benefits, there are still some challenges to address. Here, I am discussing the five primary advantages and disadvantages of 3D virtual photography software SDKs: 

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Advantages: 

• Cost efficiency over time: The creation of 3D models carries an upfront cost but poses no additional charges on unique digital photos as compared to traditional photo shoots. 3D virtual photography software is available in unlimited quantities with multiple colors, angles, and lighting options at no extra expense. 

• Scalability & speed: 3D Virtual Photography SDK enables businesses to create thousands of product pictures per minute. It is crucial during product launches, catalog updates, and offerings.  

• Personalization & interactivity: Software integration with 3D configurators allows real-time personalization. Your customers can instantly preview 4K renders of a sneaker as they change its color. This enhanced interactivity drives engagement, leading to increased conversion rates.

• Consistent visual quality: It is impossible to get uniform lighting, shadows, and reflections across thousands of SKUs with traditional photo shoots. The software maintains consistency in visual quality within your brand's product images.

• Sustainability: 3D virtual photography is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It excludes the need to transport products, set up physical studios, or manage waste disposal. Also, it will help you minimize your carbon footprint. Thus, you can meet consumers' demand for sustainability.

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Disadvantages: 

• High upfront cost: 3D model development and SDK development are charged at a high upfront cost (for larger and/or more complex product lines). Since ROI is in the future, a small business might view the upfront cost as prohibitive.

• Difficult learning curve: The execution of 3D SDKs includes in-house capabilities within 3D rendering, APIs, and/or e-commerce. Taking time from already limited resources and investing in training, or engaging with your in-house computer specialists, can add additional strain to limited resources. 

• Limited realism: The perception of a 3D asset, if badly built, is the ability to look aesthetically fake or “game-like.”  Low-quality renders lead to losing trust with their customers. Instead of a perceived rendered alternative, it may evoke the opposite effect of engagement or increased trust for the customer.

• Difficult workflow integration: Though the goal is always to plug-and-play, more often than not, larger SDKs do not merge with back-end legacy systems. If it is a large organization without a strong IT backbone, and more than one department is involved in this process, the transition can produce downtime, and the degree to which will depend on compatibilities.

• Intellectual property challenges with licenses: In the case of an asset that is not unique because it is 3D modeled, the digital nature further exposes you to IP infringement/misuse by way of copying. If there is no real strategy to protect the assets or watermarking tools, you may further expose yourself to an infringement of your branding IP.

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How to choose the best 3D virtual photography software SDK provider?

Many of the software SDKs listed above are pretty much on par for your e-commerce use. So, you really can’t go wrong with anyone. If you were to genuinely twist my arm, I would say opt for the one that is most convenient for your brand. It means that you need to use more than one platform to compare and select the best. 

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You may find that it gets a little trickier from the price perspective when you dive deep into the individual websites of every software SDK provider. Therefore, you must consider your budget when you are selecting one for your business. Beyond the pricing structure, you should look for a user-friendly interface and compatible software solutions to save money and time. 

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Then comes the customized feature options you must consider. Pick a feature-rich software like GlamAR for an interactive shopping experience. You will find the user guide easy to follow and will be able to integrate it into your online shop with less effort. 

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Conclusion

Since the product photography realm is changing rapidly, you should not wait for studio time and samples to arrive, while others are already on the market. For good reason: Follow the popular trend of 3D virtual photography. It will give you stunning results in a cost-effective way. 3D virtual photography software SDKs have replaced traditional photoshoots and let you create professional product visuals in minutes. 

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GlamAR has designed 3D virtual photography software to help e-commerce brands switch to high-quality product images. You need to input your content, and they will output a photorealistic product catalog for your online shop. Thus, you can guide your customers to the right products with this interactive and intuitive process. Talk to them directly.