Discovering Virtual 360 Tours Of The World

By Mary Sullivan


When it comes to traveling the world, it can often be quite expensive. Now, with Virtual 360 tours, it is possible to do so without ever leaving home. Whether using this new technology for fun and recreation, or to view a number of institutions and museums, the technology can provide a great deal of entertainment.

In some cases, photographs and videos are free of charge. Whereas, many websites require a paid subscription or membership. In other cases, websites may offer single photographs and videos for a nominal fee. Regardless of cost, most having paid for these video tours have suggested that the experience is well worth the cost. Individuals downloading either photographs or videos need pay close attention to any copyrights in order to prevent copyright infringement which is often a felony.

AirPana was one of the first to develop this new technology. While this is the case, there are other companies currently involved in research and development of similar applications and programs. Basically, the photographs are created by using multiple cameras. Whereas, these videos also known as spherical or immersive videos are created using a multitude of equipment.

Most often this type of photography is photographed using a omnidirectional camera or multiple cameras. Once the photographs are stored, individuals can play back the photographs using a viewer which controls the photographs like a panorama. Whereas, 360 degree video is often formatted with an equirectangular projection using either a monoscopic or stereoscopic video camera.

One problem with this specialized video technique is that it can be hard to get a clear picture in the middle of a video. Whereas, the top, bottom and sides are often clear. When it comes to sound, the quality is basically the same as that of a stereo when set to either mono or stereo. When using external speakers, it is important to use high quality speakers which can handle stereophonic sound.

There are currently specialized rigs and cameras which have been created for use with this technology. Equipment used in this manner includes all-in-one virtual reality cameras, Go Pro's and an Odyssey system which provides an array of different size camera equipment. Once other companies discover how to use this and other equipment, AirPana will have far more competition. As such, the cost of memberships and videos will most likely go down in the future.

Whether using a laptop, desktop, notebook, tablet, other mobile device or virtual reality headset, looking at photographs and videos in this format can be quite entertaining. Whereas, when viewing on a smart phone, the user can pan across various pictures. As such, it is easy to get a feel for the landscape reflected with this new technology.

Websites providing these videos, while few and far between are often well stocked with videos and photographs. When planning on downloading photographs and video from these websites, individuals need to assure there is enough available space on the device in which the material will be stored, or better yet obtain an external mini-drive on which the media can be stored.




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