How to create 3D photos Guide
Introduction
In order to get a 3D image you need to take two images from 2 close points - the distance between human eyes, with a mid-range lens (24-70 mm). In special situations, the distance between the 2 points may be greater or smaller. This separation distance is called the stereo base.
There are a number of different ways to implement 3D photos; the most well-known is the two colored glasses technique.
The best way is to take the images using 2 cameras concurrently, but for still life it is possible to take 2 shots using a single camera.
We will use 3D Red Blue Glasses for watching the 3D created photo. The photo can be displayed on Display, TV or printed in any size (depends on the resolution).
Creating 3D photo using 2 cameras
Using 2 cameras is the best way to create 3D photo. It provides us the option to take live action photos. This is the most difficult way but the result is worth it.
To use two cameras we need:
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Two cameras similar enough so that they produce the same image, pay attention to
shutter speed, aperture settings, ISO speed, focus on the same point and shutter
delay. Be aware that crop cameras from different manufacturers have different crop
factor. -
Two lenses that are similar enough to appear the same, the best way is to use prime lenses.
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A camera remote control with 1 transmitter and 2 receivers or a cable to connect them together.
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A tripod that can carry this setup.
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Optional: red and cyan filters.
Taking the pictures
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The start point is to set the distance from the subject and the focal length.
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Construct the cameras on the tripod using the means to hold both cameras parallel to each other and connect the receivers of the remote control to the cameras.
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If you have red and cyan filters, put the red filter on the left camera and the
cyan filter on the right camera. -
Determine the stereo base.
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Set the focal lengths to match on both lenses, be aware that it is better to use prime lenses.
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Set a manual focus to the same point on the subject.
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Adjust the same settings on both cameras - shutter speed, aperture and ISO speed.
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Use live view to ensure all looks right and take a shot. Both shutters should fire exactly together. Compare results carefully without changing the cameras alignment.
Editing
Now we have 2 photos which we have to merge together for creating the 3D photo.
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Load both photos to editing photo software (like Photoshop) as 2 layers.
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If you didn’t use physical filters during the shot, set RED software filter on the layer of left photo and CYAN software filter on the layer of the right photo.
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Merge the layers.
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Save as JPG or other file format as needed.
Creating 3D photo using a single camera
Using a single camera is the easy way to create 3D photo, but it provides good results only for still life photos.
To use a single camera we need:
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A single camera.
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A single lens.
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Optional: A means to hold the camera with the ability to move it a small distance.
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A tripod that can carry this setup.
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Optional: red and cyan filters.
Taking the pictures
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The start point is to set the distance from the subject and the focal length.
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Construct the camera on the tripod using the means on the left side.
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Set the focal length.
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Set a manual focus on the subject.
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Adjust the camera settings - shutter speed, aperture and ISO speed.
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If you have red filter, put the red filter on the camera.
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Take the first shot.
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Determine the stereo base and move the camera on the means* to the right.
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Remove the red filter and if you have cyan filter, put the cyan filter on the camera.
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Take the second shot.
*Note: If you don’t have a means to move the camera, put the camera directly on the tripod which stands on a balanced and stable floor. After taking the first shot move the tripod a short distance to the right – as the stereo base. This is not optimal but it works.
Editing
Now we have 2 photos which we have to merge together for creating the 3D photo.
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Load both photos to editing photo software (like Photoshop) as 2 layers.
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If you didn’t use the means to move the camera, align the photos.
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If you didn’t use physical filters during the shot, set RED software filter on the left photo and CYAN software filter on the right photo.
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Merge the layers.
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Save as JPG or other file format as needed.
The Use
The photo is now ready for view.
Use the 3D Glasses to see your amazing 3D photo.
You can view the photo on a screen. You can print it to any size depending on the photo resolution.
Conclusion
Like all photography, practice is essential, as things can get overlooked and go wrong. You thus need a routine, and to have practiced this on your own where you are not under pressure or distracted.
This all seems a bit much but at the end of the day the results can be magical, and worth all the effort.
You can find the additional digital materials at the following URL: http://www.1stopshot.com/3d-photos
