Sunday, December 31, 2017

Virtual 360 Tours For Fun And Recreation

By Mary Sullivan


When it comes to photography and video, there is a new game in town. For, Virtual 360 Tours are now available on a number of websites. Whether looking for a place to rest and relax on vacation, or to experience differing cultures around the world, this new technology can provide the means to do so. While online touring can be fun, it can also be beneficial in a number of areas from college projects to touring the world.

While there are some free photographs and videos of this nature, most videos have a price. While this is the case, most visitors agree the experience is often worth the cost. Whereas, in order to see the content in person, it would cost far more than the price of a 360 virtual video.

One of the main companies behind this technology is that of AirPana, a Moscow based professional group of 360 degree photographers. These photographers shoot 360 degree videos, also known as immersive or spherical videos. In the process, the photographers capture the view in every direction at the same time. While AirPana has created a number of videos in this genre, there are also other companies working on the creation and development of more of these type videos.

When it comes to photography, multiple cameras or an omnidirectional camera are often used in the process. After which, the photographs are stored online. Once this is the case, individuals can play back photographs using a viewer which allows the photographs to work as a panorama. An equirectangular projection system is often used in the creation of videos with a stereoscopic or monoscopic camera.

The difference between monoscopic and stereoscopic is whether using one video camera or multiple video cameras. One problem with this type video is that there are often issues in the middle of the picture. Whereas, the top and bottom are almost always clear. While this is the case with pictures and video, the sound is also different between monoscopic and stereoscopic equipment.

A number of specialized cameras and rigs have been developed for use with this new technology. Currently, there is a great deal of research and development with regards to the clarity of video. Whereas, there are other companies which are looking at how to best enter the field of competition in the area. Once this happens, the cost of videos and photographs will most likely go down over time.

Individuals using this technology are often using laptops, desktops, mobile devices and virtual reality gear to view photographs and videos which are enhanced in this manner. When using smart phones, a gyroscope can often be used to pan across various images. It should be noted that when using virtual reality headgear, it is often recommended by optometrists and ophthalmologists to limit viewing to 30 to 45 minutes per session.

When it comes to websites providing these videos, some have memberships while others place a price on each video. While this is the case, there are a number of reasons why, even if a video of this type cost money, it can be beneficial to pay to watch. For example, previewing an area before vacation, looking at other cultures for a class project, or simply for entertainment.




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