Convert images into 3D models in 5 minutes for modeling in Blender

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I'm going to show you how you can generate a 3D model for sculpting, using a simple image as a reference, regardless of the pose it's in. That's the interesting thing about this process.

I'll leave the author with the Pinterest link, which is where I got the image I want to use to generate the 3D model:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/15973773674351504/
 

For me, Pinterest is a great source of inspiration: I look there for images that I can use directly for modeling or, as in this case, as a reference.

Generate the poses

Obviously, these images aren't meant for modeling, as they often feature dynamic poses. Ideally, they'd be in the famous "T-pose," but that's almost never what we find.

Generating T-poses with Gemini NanoBanana

To solve this problem, we can use tools like Gemini (NanoBanana). This tool allows us to maintain the fidelity of the original image, avoiding distortions.
This is the prompt I used:

Use the provided photo as reference. Center the full figure (head-to-toe) against a clean white background with soft, even studio lighting.

First, produce a *full-figure framing* version showing the subject in their **natural pose**, preserving body proportions, lighting, and textures—no cropping or distortion.

Next, produce a *full-figure framing* version of the same subject in a *classic T-pose* (arms extended horizontally, relaxed hands), keeping the same lighting, proportions, and background.

Then, render four separate, consistently framed and stylized views (all in T-pose): 
1. Front view 
2. Side view (90°) 
3. Back view 

Generate 3D model with AI

Once the image is processed, the tool returns a 3D model. The result is quite good considering it's based on a single image.
The mesh has many polygons, which isn't ideal for video games, but it's excellent as a reference base for sculpting:

https://hyper3d.ai/

With the free plan, you can only generate one image, although 4 or 5 views are ideal for greater accuracy. If you upgrade to a paid plan, you can upload multiple images and create a more accurate model.

Customize and modify the generated mesh

With the previous step, we now have a mesh ready to work with. We import the .obj into Blender and modify it.

The first thing I did was remove parts I wasn't interested in:

• I removed the side skirt.
• I removed accessories like earrings.
• I also trimmed my hair, which was badly shaped.

To do this, I went into edit mode, activated transparent view, selected the vertices, and deleted them. Obviously, holes remained in the mesh.

Repairing holes in the mesh

With the previous step, we'll likely have left several holes in the mesh. To fix them, I selected the areas with Select All by Trait > Non Manifold and pressed F to complete. The mesh was still a mess, but it was enough to retopologize later:

Retopology and symmetry

In sculpting mode, I used the Remesh option with Ctrl + R to generate a better mesh. This even helps close holes:

Then I applied symmetry from the Mesh > Symmetrize panel in Blender. This helped me fix the differences and keep the figure balanced.

From there, I began sculpting with symmetry enabled, gradually shaping it. The goal wasn't to have a perfect final model, but rather a base to work from. For example, I added horns to my character:

Conclusion

In just a few minutes, we went from a single reference image to an editable 3D model. Although it's high in polygons, it's more than enough to sculpt, save time, and use as a base.
Before, I did everything manually, using flat reference images, and the results were distorted. Now, however, I have a solid starting point that allows me to adapt it to my needs, whether for a video game or animation.