What you'll make
A grayscale depth map from any photo — AI-analysed and optimised — ready to import into LightBurn for 3D relief engraving.
Step 1 — Upload your photo
Upload a JPG or PNG. Portrait photos with a clear subject work best — faces, objects, or landscapes with obvious foreground/background separation.
Step 2 — Generate the depth map
Click Generate. The AI analyses depth cues (perspective, shadows, blur) and creates a grayscale map where white = closest and black = furthest.
Step 3 — Adjust depth contrast
Use the Depth Contrast slider to increase separation between near and far areas. Higher contrast = more dramatic 3D effect.
Step 4 — Set output dimensions
Enter the engraving width and height in mm. For portrait relief plaques, 100 × 130 mm at 254 DPI gives excellent detail.
Step 5 — Choose engraving mode
Select Grayscale mode in LightBurn (not dither) for this type of file. The grey levels encode engraving depth.
Step 6 — Export and engrave
Export as PNG. Import into LightBurn, set to Grayscale mode, 254 DPI, and run at low speed/medium power. Engrave on 6 mm MDF or light-coloured wood.
Pro tips
Tip 1: Portraits taken with a shallow depth-of-field (blurred background) give the AI cleaner depth cues.
Tip 2: After engraving, apply a dark wood stain and wipe clean — it settles in deeper areas and enhances the 3D effect dramatically.