# Lithophane Generator — Photo to STL for 3D Printing

Canonical page: https://imageto3dprint.com/lithophane-generator

Create a lithophane from a photo. Adjust panel size, minimum thickness, depth range, and resolution, preview the mesh, and download STL or 3MF.

An understated white panel. A little light behind it. Suddenly, a favorite memory comes into view.

The generator maps photo tones to the thickness of a flat panel. Dark areas become thicker and light areas become thinner, so backlighting reveals the image. Set the minimum thickness and depth range, inspect the closed mesh, and download it for your slicer.

## Keep the tones that matter

A photo with clear subjects and a good tonal range gives a more readable backlit picture.

## Set the panel thickness

Choose width, height, minimum thickness, and depth range. The preview shows the physical surface, not a simulated backlit photograph.

## Let light do the rest

Use a suitable translucent filament and review the model in your slicer. Material, settings, and lighting affect the final appearance.

## Tips

- Look for a clear subject with a range of light and dark tones.
- Leave enough space around the subject for cropping.
- Consider where the finished panel will receive light.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do I need a color 3D printer?

No. A traditional lithophane creates tones through thickness in a single translucent material. Its appearance comes from transmitted light.

### Can I generate and download a lithophane now?

Artwork, reliefs, and lithophanes support STL, 3MF, OBJ, STEP, and GLB. Photo surfaces use faceted CAD solids.

## Related references

- [Photo to STL](https://imageto3dprint.com/photo-to-stl.md)

- [Bas-relief generator](https://imageto3dprint.com/bas-relief-generator.md)

- [Image to 3D print](https://imageto3dprint.com/image-to-3d-print.md)

- [Pricing and credit costs](https://imageto3dprint.com/pricing.md)

- [AI content index](https://imageto3dprint.com/llms.txt)