Gaussian splatting workflow explained: Scan. Share. Done.

• Step-by-step guide to creating 3D models with Gaussian splatting

• Easy workflow using XGRIDS Lixel Colour Studio and DJI Terra

• Screenshots included for every stage

• Simple instructions from scanning to sharing

• Ideal for real estate, construction, and site capture projects

Creating detailed 3D models doesn’t have to be complicated or slow. With XGRIDS Lixel Colour Studio (LCC) and DJI Terra, you can capture, process, and share high-quality 3D models in just minutes—no specialist software or advanced skills required.

Whether you work in real estate, construction, or any industry needing accurate site scans, this guide shows you how to turn your data into shareable, interactive 3D models with minimal effort, breaking down each step from scanning to cloud sharing for fast, professional results.

LCC vs Terra

Both LCC and DJI Terra are user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces and straightforward steps - no specialist surveying knowledge required. The software handles advanced settings in the background, making them ideal for fast, fuss-free data processing.

Additionally, both platforms make sharing data easier than ever. Export links with ease across teams, without the need for dedicated software or technical know-how to open them.

Heliguy Technical Geospatial Specialist, Alex Williams shared this advice:

“With Gaussian splats, it’s better to have good coverage of the area with fewer, well-chosen images—too many can actually add unwanted noise.

The more you move around and capture different angles, the better your overall asset will be, as it gives a more complete real-world view. It’s a bit like building a jigsaw puzzle—start by capturing the corners and edges, then fill in the rest.”

For data collected using XGRIDS technology, such as the L2 Pro or Lixel K1 handscanners, we recommend using LCC. This software is designed specifically for XGRIDS devices and is not compatible with data from other sources.

Drone data captured with DJI equipment is best processed in DJI Terra. With the recent addition of Gaussian splatting, Terra is now a strong choice for visualising and managing 3D drone scans.

LCC workflow

Upload your data directly from XGRIDS devices into LCC. The interface is simple to navigate, allowing you to easily use tools like the brush or object removal if needed.

Preview and adjust your results, then export high-quality 3D models with just a few clicks.

After processing, you can export the data as Gaussian splats (LCC, PLY) or as meshes (OBJ, GLB) for further processing.

Our Technical Geospatial Specialist, Alex Williams said:

“Compared to other tools, LCC stands out for its quality and simplicity. It’s easy to navigate, the settings are straightforward, and it’s ideal for beginners. You get high-quality results without dealing with complicated features or overly complicated settings.”

Use the screenshots below to guide you through each step.

1. Open up LCC and click 'Create'.

2. Choose whether you want to generate a ‘Single Scene’, ‘Map Fusion’, or ‘Aerial-Ground Map Fusion’ based on your project requirements.

3. Fill out the 'Data Management' and 'Parameters' information.

Edit your data to your specifications. At this stage, you can measure objects within the dataset, zoom in and out, and make any necessary adjustments.

4. Export your dataset.

Terra workflow

Load your drone data directly into Terra. The interface is easy to navigate and user-friendly, allowing you to add information alongside your data as needed.

Terra automatically processes the dataset into your chosen format, handling advanced settings in the background. The software is designed specifically for drone imagery, making it simple to generate high-quality results with minimal effort.

Use the screenshots below to navigate using Terra.

1. Open up Terra, select 'Create Project', choose from one of the three prompts that appear on screen, 'Visible Light', 'Multispectral', or 'LiDAR Point Cloud', and import your chosen asset.

2. Select your preferred processing option from the bottom menu, and complete the processing boxes on the side to add more details for Terra. The green boxes display the drone path used for data collection.

3. Once you’re happy with your edits, export your Gaussian splat.

With Terra, the export process is a bit different—once you start processing, all model files are automatically saved to your results directory, rather than requiring you to click export and choose specific files.

Summary

Both XGRIDS Lixel Colour Studio and DJI Terra offer straightforward, user-friendly workflows for producing high-quality Gaussian splats. Each platform makes it easy to turn your data into impressive 3D models, whether you’re working with ground scanners or drone imagery.

Contact us

To find out more or get started with this software, get in touch the heliguy™ survey team today, or call us on, 0191 296 1024.