Turn a Pet Photo Into a 3D Relief Portrait

What this workflow supports

• Round medallions and ornaments with your pet's face raised from the surface
• Rectangle plaques for a shelf, wall, or garden stone
• Cut-outs that follow your pet's outline
• A name or date on the back using the optional second side

Choose a photo that carves well

Relief turns brightness into height, so the photo needs clear light and shadow across your pet's face. A close, evenly lit shot works best.

• Face the camera or a three-quarter angle, eyes visible
• Plain or blurred backgrounds give the cleanest outline
• Avoid harsh flash and deep shadows across the face
• Very dark or very light fur benefits from a little extra contrast before upload

Size and printing tips

Fur detail reads best on resin printers and at larger sizes on FDM printers. Use the live preview at the real size to judge how much detail survives.

• Resin printers hold whisker-level detail on 40 to 60 mm medallions
• FDM prints look best from about 80 mm upward with a little extra depth
• Add smoothing if the photo's grain shows up as roughness
• Painting or dry-brushing the raised areas brings out the portrait

Memorials and gifts

Many people make these as remembrance pieces or gifts. You can add a second design on the back, such as a name and dates, and keep the project to make more copies later.

• Re-export the same project any time without paying again
• Download a height map for laser or CNC engraving on wood or stone
• Send the STL to a local print or casting service if you don't own a printer
• Everything works from your phone, from photo to download

Frequently asked questions