When we look at a normal photo, we only see a flat image. But a 3D photography allows us to see more. We can see which objects are closer and which are further away. It gives us the feeling as if we are really in the place we are looking at.
A 3D photography works on a similar principle to our eyes. Our eyes see the world from two slightly different perspectives, and the brain combines these images to give us a sense of depth. A 3D photography mimics this process:
- Two images of the same object from slightly different angles are created
- Each eye sees a different image
- The brain combines these images to create a three-dimensional impression
It’s a bit like taking two pictures of the same place, standing first on the left leg and then on the right. When we combine these two images in a special way, our brain sees them as one 3D image.
It is important that the difference between the two images is not too big. If it is too large, our brain cannot combine them and instead of a 3D image we will see two separate, blurred images.
How Is a 3D Photography Created?
1. Two Cameras Side by Side
You use two cameras set up next to each other, taking pictures simultaneously. It’s a bit like having two pairs of eyes taking pictures at the same time. This method is often used in professional 3D photography, for example when shooting 3D films.
2. One Camera Moving From Side to Side
You take two photos with the same , slightly moving it sideways between shots. This is a good way for people who want to try taking 3D photography but do not have special equipment. You just have to be careful that nothing moves between shots, otherwise the 3D effect will not work well.
3. Special 3D Cameras
There are cameras designed specifically for taking 3D photography, having two . They are like two pairs of eyes in one device. Such cameras automatically take two photos and combine them into one 3D image. They are easy to use, but usually more expensive than normal cameras.
4. Computer Programmes
Some programmes can transform an ordinary photo into a 3D image. They do this by analysing the photo and guessing which parts of the image should be closer and which should be further away. They then create a second version of the photo, simulating a view from a different perspective. This way doesn’t always produce perfect results, but it is getting better as technology develops.
Creating 3D photography requires practice and patience. It can be difficult to get a good result at first, but it gets easier with time. Many people start with simple techniques, such as and using apps to create a 3D effect, and then move on to more advanced methods.
How Do I View a 3D Photography?
Special viewing methods are needed to see a 3D photo and its effect:
- 3D glasses: the most common way. These can be red and blue glasses or special glasses used in 3D cinemas.
- Special screens: Some TVs and computer monitors can display 3D photography without the need for glasses.
- Stereoscopes: These are devices that allow each eye to see a different image, creating a 3D effect.
3D glasses work in different ways. The simplest, red-blue glasses, filter colours so that each eye sees a slightly different image. More advanced glasses, used in cinemas, quickly alternately obscure the left and right eye, synchronising with the image on the screen.
Special 3D screens are becoming increasingly popular. They use various technologies, such as tiny lenses or a parallax barrier, which make different images reach the left and right eye without the need to wear glasses. Such screens can be found in some smartphones, tablets and games consoles.
Stereoscopes are an older technology, but still in use. They are devices that look a bit like binoculars. They show each eye a separate image, creating a 3D effect. The modern version of the stereoscope is virtual reality goggles, which use a similar principle but with a digital display.
What Are 3D Images Used For?
3D photography have many uses:
- Films and games: Creating more realistic visual effects.
- Online shops: Showing products in more detail.
- Architecture: Presenting building designs in 3D.
- Education: Creating interactive models for learning.
In films and games, 3D imagery helps to create a more immersive experience. Viewers feel as if they are part of the action. In 3D games, players can better judge distances and spatial relationships, which is important in many types of games.
Online shops are increasingly using 3D imagery so that customers can better view products before buying. It is possible to rotate the item, zoom in on details and even virtually ‘try on’ some products. This helps reduce returns and increases customer satisfaction.
Architects use photos and 3D models to showcase their designs. Customers can see what the building will look like from different sides and even ‘walk’ through virtual interiors. This helps with decision-making and making changes before construction starts.
In education, 3D images and 3D models help students better understand complex concepts. For example, in biology you can see a 3D model of a cell, and in geography you can see the exact structure of the land. This makes learning more interactive and engaging.
3D Photography – Advantages
- More realistic representation of objects
- More interesting way of showing things
- Possibility to see details that are difficult to perceive in normal photographs
3D Photography – Disadvantages
- Need for special viewing equipment
- Can sometimes cause eye fatigue when viewed for long periods of time
- 3D images tend to be more expensive to create than normal images
One of the biggest advantages of 3D photography is that they allow us to see things in a way that is more similar to how we see the world in everyday life. This can be particularly helpful in situations where spatial relationships between objects are important. For example, in a virtual museum, 3D photography can give us a better idea of the size and shape of the exhibits.
A 3D photo is also extremely engaging. It attracts attention and makes us want to look at a particular image for longer. This can be particularly useful in advertising or education, where it is important for the viewer to focus on the message.
However, 3D photography also have their drawbacks. The need for special equipment to view them can be a barrier for some people. Not everyone has 3D glasses at home, and special 3D screens are still quite expensive.
Some people experience discomfort when viewing 3D images. This can include eye fatigue, headaches and even nausea. This phenomenon is called ‘simulator sickness’ and affects different people to varying degrees.
Creating high-quality 3D images requires specialised equipment and skills, making it more expensive than traditional photography. This can be a problem for smaller companies or individual creatives who would like to use this technology.
3D in Everyday Life
While it may seem that 3D photography is a technology used mainly in cinemas or games, we are increasingly seeing it in everyday life:
- Smartphones: many modern phones have a function for taking 3D photos. We can easily create 3D selfies or photos of our surroundings.
- Social media: Platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are starting to support 3D photos, allowing us to share more immersive memories.
- Virtual tours: Museums, art galleries or even real estate agencies offer 3D virtual walks, allowing us to view spaces from anywhere in the world.
- 3D printing: 3D photos can be used to create physical models through 3D printing. This is a great way to create unique souvenirs or prototypes.
3D photos are becoming increasingly accessible and ubiquitous. Not only do they allow us to document our lives in new ways, but they are also changing the way we interact with the world around us. From planning holidays to viewing virtual tours to designing the interiors of our homes, 3D imagery offers new ways to visualise and interact with the space around us.
As technology evolves, we can expect 3D photos to become even more integrated into our daily lives, offering new ways to explore the world, communicate and express ourselves.
How Do I Get Started With 3D Photography?
If you are interested in creating 3D photography, here are some ways to get started:
- Mobile apps: Many smartphones already have built-in features for taking 3D photos. Check if your phone has this option and experiment with it.
- Simple techniques without special equipment: You can start by taking two photos of the same subject, moving the camera slightly between shots. Then use free online software to combine these photos into a 3D image.
- Buy inexpensive 3D glasses: Red-blue anaglyph glasses are cheap and readily available. They will allow you to view simple 3D images that you can create using free apps.
- Experiment with different subjects: Start by photographing products or simple objects and then move on to more complex scenes. Landscapes, portraits or even macro photography can look fascinating in 3D.
