Exploring VR on Camera: Possibilities and Practicalities

It is indeed possible to use VR (Virtual Reality) on camera, but the methods vary and the results depend on your goals and resources. Let’s explore the different ways to achieve this, including photogrammetry and 360-degree imaging, and discuss the tools and processes involved.

Photogrammetry: Creating a 3D Virtual World

If you’re interested in creating a 3D virtual world by taking pictures with a camera, the answer is a resounding ‘yes’—it is entirely possible. This process is known as photogrammetry. Photogrammetry involves taking hundreds of photographs of the environment you want to create a virtual model of, and then using specialized software to convert these photos into a 3D textured model. This technique has been used by professionals for decades and can be a highly effective way to create detailed virtual environments.

There are both free and paid photogrammetry software options available. You can find a fairly extensive list of software options here. Some popular photogrammetry software includes Agisoft Metashape, Autodesk Re_FAMILY, and PhotoScan by Capture One. These tools can handle complex models with precision and accuracy.

The photogrammetry process is not without its challenges. It demands a lot of time, and the results can vary significantly based on lighting conditions, the number of photos taken, and the quality of the software used. However, with patience and the right tools, the process is definitely doable. For a detailed guide, you can refer to the good tutorial from Valve.

Valve’s tutorial provides a step-by-step guide through the photogrammetry process, complete with examples of environments and objects created from photos. To see a practical implementation, fast forward to the one-minute mark in this video, which showcases an environment created using the HTC Vive. While I find the use of a blurry background somewhat distracting, the models are still quite impressive.

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Alternative: 360-Degree Imaging

For a simpler alternative, you can also create 360-degree images or videos. This method captures a full spherical view of the environment, making it highly immersive as viewers can look in all directions. However, it lacks the interactivity of a fully 3D environment, and you cannot walk around and explore the space. To create this content, you can either stitch images together manually or use a dedicated 360-degree camera. Popular 360-degree cameras include the Insta360 Nano, GoPro Omni, and Ricoh Theta.

Here is an example of a 360-degree video created with a 360-degree camera:

While 360-degree videos can be a fantastic way to capture immersive experiences, they still require powerful computers to process and VR headsets to view the content.

Conclusion and Challenges

As with any creative endeavor, creating VR content on camera comes with its unique set of challenges. You’ll need a powerful computer, a VR headset, and possibly specialized software and experience with that software. Additionally, it often requires a significant amount of time and dedication. However, the outcomes can be truly remarkable and provide an incredible way to capture and share the world around us in new and exciting ways.

Whether you choose photogrammetry or 360-degree imaging, the possibilities are endless. The key is to identify your goals and use the right tools and techniques to bring your vision to life.