Using an Alternative Model Path

Note

Morphace expects the landmark model file to exist in its app data directory. The easiest way to set this up is with:

morphace download

The download command downloads the required model and saves it in the default location for your operating system.

You only need this guide if you want to store the landmark model somewhere else.

Model Lookup Order

When --landmark-model is omitted, Morphace looks for the model in this order:

1. The path set in MORPHACE_LANDMARK_MODEL.
2. The application data directory.

Use a Model Path for One Command

To use a model file in a custom location, pass its path with --landmark-model:

morphace morph \
  first_image.png \
  second_image.png \
  --landmark-model ./model/shape_predictor_68_face_landmarks_GTX.dat

The --landmark-model option only affects the command where you use it.

The same option can be used with any command that require the landmark model.

Set a Model Path for Repeated Use

The MORPHACE_LANDMARK_MODEL environment variable applies to future commands in the same shell environment.

export MORPHACE_LANDMARK_MODEL="$PWD/model/shape_predictor_68_face_landmarks_GTX.dat"

After setting this variable, you can run Morphace without passing --landmark-model each time:

morphace morph \
  first_image.png \
  second_image.png

Default Model Directory

If you download the model file manually, extract it and place shape_predictor_68_face_landmarks_GTX.dat in the appropriate directory for your operating system.

Why Use an Alternative Model Path?

Use an alternative model path if you want to:

• Keep the model file inside a project directory.
• Share one model file across multiple environments.
• Store large model files on a specific drive or mounted volume.
• Manage the model file yourself instead of using morphace download.