What is Lidar scanning?

LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging . 
 
 
 It works by shooting out tiny pulses of infrared light (lasers). 
 
 
 Each pulse bounces back when it hits a surface. 
 
 
 The device measures the time it takes to return → this gives the distance to that surface. 
 
 
 Millions of these measurements build up a point cloud = a digital 3D map of the environment or object. 
 
 
 LiDAR captures the shape of real objects in 3D, with depth and scale , not just flat photos. 
 Artists use LiDAR scanning to: 
 
 
 Capture sculptures, costumes, installations, or landscapes as precise 3D models. 
 
 
 Create digital doubles of their work for archiving or documentation. 
 
 
 Remix physical works in VR/AR, projection mapping, or dataflow software like TouchDesigner . 
 
 
 Use scans as a starting point for fabrication (3D printing, CNC, etc.). 
 
 
 It’s not about photorealistic color but about geometry —a solid spatial “skeleton” you can texture, render, or transform artistically.