Master Blender for Visual Investigation
Empower yourself or your team and gain practical 3D visualization skills for visual investigations, even with a busy schedule. Our flexible Blender training, from 1-on-1 sessions to full courses, is designed for busy professionals in forensic analysis, investigative journalism, academic research, and human rights documentation — no prior experience needed.
Comprehensive Learning Ecosystem
Access our extensive library of tutorials, guides, and resources designed to take you from beginner to expert in Blender for visual investigation. Everything you need to start your journey is available for free, with just a slight barrier to entry. (We ask for your email to help us keep track of usage, not for marketing purposes.)
Step-by-Step Video Tutorials
Comprehensive video guides covering everything from basic Blender navigation to advanced 3D reconstruction techniques for investigative purposes.
Downloadable Resources
Project files, sample datasets, and reference materials to practice with real-world scenarios and build your skills progressively.
Real Case Studies
Learn from actual investigations and see how Blender is used in journalism, human rights documentation, and forensic analysis.
Why 3D Visualization Feels Out of Reach
While 3D visualization offers powerful capabilities for visual investigation, many professionals face significant barriers when trying to adopt these technologies. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward overcoming them.
Steep Learning Curve
3D software seems to have a steep learning curve that can be intimidating if you don't know where to start.
Lack of Specialized Training
There are few resources available that focus specifically on using Blender within the context of Visual Investigation.
Time-Consuming Process
You are stretched thin as it is, learning and creating in 3D software can be overly time-consuming without proper guidance.
Technical Limitations
It's difficult to see how real-world evidence can be translated into accurate 3D visualizations without developing an intuition for it.
Our Solution
It's completely understandable to feel like there isn't enough time in the day or that learning a new skill like Blender might be overwhelming. Many professionals in fields like forensic analysis, investigative journalism, academic research, and human rights documentation are already stretched thin. We've designed a comprehensive approach that addresses each of these challenges head-on, providing you with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to successfully integrate 3D visualization into your investigative work practically and efficiently.
Structured Learning Path
Step-by-step curriculum that takes complete beginners from zero to confident, while offering intermediate users a chance to solidify fundamentals and learn new techniques.
Real-World Case Studies
Learn through practical examples drawn from actual investigative techniques and scenarios.
Expert Guidance
Direct support from professionals with over 7 years of Blender experience.
We Offer
Comprehensive Resources & Modular Course Library
An extensive, constantly expanding library of Blender tutorials, workflows, and resources that can be mixed and matched to fit your specific project.
- Modular Resource Library: A dynamic collection of bite-sized modules covering techniques, tools, addons and workflows. It's an extensive Visual investigation toolkit with Blender at the core.
- Flexible Structure: Combine modules to build personalized workflows tailored to your project needs.
- Continuously Updated: New content added regularly to reflect latest techniques and investigation strategies.
Fast & Direct Human Support
Immediate, personal help when you hit roadblocks or need tailored advice.
- 1-on-1 Video Calls & Screen Sharing: Direct, focused sessions for problem-solving and technical walkthroughs.
- Personalized Tutorials on Demand: Custom-made explainer videos addressing your exact challenge.
- Rapid Multi-Channel Support: Quick responses via Signal and/or Element.io
Personalized, Adaptive Learning
You don't follow a generic curriculum — We assemble your own path.
- Custom Course Building: Select and combine modules relevant to your context.
- Project-Focused Guidance: Structured recommendations based on your specific use-case and project goals.
- Step-by-Step Workflows: Curated paths for beginners, intermediate, and advanced Blender users.
Benefits of our program
Enhanced Credibility
Produce accurate 3D visualizations of locations, structures, or objects using data from open-source investigations. Create compelling visual evidence that strengthens your investigations and reporting. Accurate 3D reconstructions add credibility to your findings.
Improved Communication
Communicate complex spatial relationships and scenarios more effectively through visual storytelling. Use Blender's rendering and video editing capabilities to produce visual reports that audiences can easily understand.
Career Advancement
Knowing how to use Blender gives you a unique advantage. Stand out in the field of visual journalism and investigation with a unique skill set that combines technical expertise with investigative methodology.
What our students say
Read what our previous students have said about their experience with the Blender for Visual Investigation course.
Incredible support. Boudewyn made Blender’s complexity manageable through patient 1-on-1 help and tailored resources. Way beyond what I expected.
The Learning Process
Learn the Fundamentals
Master the basics of Blender's interface, navigation, and core functionality through structured tutorials.
Apply to Investigations
Learn specialized techniques for recreating scenes or models in 3D, analyzing spatial relationships, and visualizing open source evidence in groundbreaking ways.
Create Real Projects
Combine everything to create compelling and complex visual narratives based on real world situations.
Instructor
Boudewijn is a creative technologist and visual storyteller with 7+ years of experience working with Blender. His background bridges philosophy, interactive media design, and 3D graphics. He is driven by a desire to use (emerging) technologies to make real and positive change in people their lives. This project was born from the belief that investigative (3D) workflows should be accessible, clear, and adaptable for anyone looking to uncover stories, patterns, and evidence through visual means.
Courses & Workshops can be given in Dutch, English or German
Example Use Cases
Disclaimer: These examples have not been created by people who followed this course, nor are they associated with the course. They are simply real-world cases where Blender was used within the context of visual investigation.
Russian Missile Identified in Kyiv Children’s Hospital Attack
This example from Bellingcat showcases a powerful application of 3D modeling in visual investigation. By creating a precise model of a Kh-101 missile in Blender, researchers were able to directly compare its proportions and key features with photographic evidence of the missile that struck the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital.
‘Smoke and Lies’: How Visual Forensics Disproved Official Accounts of a Deadly Migrant Center Fire
Lighthouse Reports effectively used Blender to create a 3D model of a detention center. By integrating various reference materials, including camera footage and floor plans, they were able to visualize the spatial relationships and reconstruct events, such as staff movements and the search for equipment, providing critical insights for their investigation.
Shireen Abu Akleh: The Extrajudicial Killing of a Journalist
Forensic Architecture and Al-Haq used 3D reconstruction in Blender to analyze a complex incident. By creating a detailed 3D model of the site, incorporating photogrammetry and 'photomatching' techniques, they were able to analyze the positions of individuals, vehicles, and even gunshot trajectories. This approach provided a clear and spatially accurate understanding of the events.
Pick your route
1-on-1 Training
Personal training sessions tailored to your needs
- Individual Training Sessions: One-on-one coaching sessions with personalized attention.
- Flexible Scheduling: Sessions arranged around your availability and timeline.
- Project-Based Learning: Focus on your specific investigation projects and challenges.
- Direct Access to Instructor: Immediate support and expert guidance when needed.
Workshop
Group training sessions on a specific topic for teams and organizations
- Group Training Sessions: Interactive workshops designed for teams and organizations.
- Custom Workshop Content: Tailored curriculum based on your organization's needs.
- On-site or Remote Options: Flexible delivery methods to suit your team's preferences.
- Follow-up Support: Continued assistance after the workshop to ensure successful implementation.
Full Course
Direct, tailored assistance and customized curriculum
- 1-on-1 Video Coaching: Tailored, real-time support via video calls and screen sharing.
- Customizable Course Content: Curiculum shaped around your project needs and goals.
- Priority Problem-Solving Support: Fast, direct help for Blender challenges when you need it.
- Weekly Group Mentoring: Live sessions for Q&A, peer learning, and feedback.
Included in All Plans
- Full Access: Explore our complete library of text & video tutorials covering everything from basic Blender navigation to advanced scene reconstruction.
- Downloadable Resources: Access all the project files, assets, and guides available within the course.
- Lifetime Access to Updates: Enjoy ongoing access to all learning content and future updates.