There sure seems to be a trend to enable people to easily make 3D models from photographs. 3Defy offers its attempt. Upon using it the free web browser service we felt a little underwhelmed. It should be called 2-1/2Defy. The basic idea is to identify areas of the photograph using a paintbrush or magic wand that are unique objects. Each of the identified objects can be translated and warped to give the effect of 3D. The effect breaks down when the camera is moved far from the original location. It reminds us of taking multiple copies of a photograph, cutting out the objects and then pasting them on the base photograph with foam core spacers. We look forward to seeing how their product develops hopefully adding more functionality.
Source: Killer Startups