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• RTI and SFM-MVS photogrammetry were combined to enhance quality of 3D models. • 3D reconstruction of featureless objects can be improved by using SFM-MVS + RTI. • SFM-MVS + RTI is a low cost combination to use in cultural heritage 3D documentation. One of the problems that arises when applying 3D Structure from Motion and Multi-View-Stereo photogrammetry to certain heritage objects characterized by minimal surface features and monochrome textures is that the obtained 3D models have low quality and accuracy. Within such scenarios, the smallest lengths that can be measured on it with high accuracy is usually one or more orders of magnitude worse than the maximum resolution of the input photographs. Additionally, when contrasted with outputs from scanning systems, these reconstructions tend to exhibit relatively lower quality. This article presents a simple approach wherein the incorporation of normal maps acquired through Reflectance Transformation Imaging technique improves the quality and accuracy of 3D photogrammetric reconstructions (mesh + texture). This enhancement also surpasses the capabilities of some commercial structured light scanning systems and reaches values that are in the order of magnitude of the maximum resolution of the photographs used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Captured reality can be complemented with 3D modeling to create virtual museums. • Photogrammetry 3D models polygon count can be reduced, keeping the photorealism. • PBR and UV unwrapping texturing improve photorealism of captured reality objects. • Virtual experimentation allows to design an exhibit in a fast and versatile way. Virtual spaces for the dissemination of cultural heritage and virtual experimentation were developed combining 3D image acquisition techniques like digital photogrammetry (captured reality) and computer 3D modeling. This is a novelty in peripheral countries, particularly in Latin-America, since there is almost no development of this kind of virtual museums in the region. Two virtual scenes are presented in the frame of a digitization project of the collections of Argentine museums. On one hand, a virtual museum named Virtual Collections was created. It exhibits, in a computer generated environment, the collections of the participating museums in the aforementioned project, digitized by 3D photogrammetry. On the other hand, a virtual tour that recreates a retrospective exhibition was also built as an interactive recording for documentation of the event. In both cases 3D modeling and texturing techniques were used, achieving realistic results. Two instances of immersion are available for the visualization and interaction with both virtual environments: screen, keyboard and mouse (Desktop VR) and HTC Vive (VR visualization headset). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]