Panoramic photography can be created with a sequence of pictures taken from a still camera. The product is a stimulating wide-range aspect of an object or setting, even up to 360 degrees. Photos are taken side by side at different angles and later downloaded to the computer via the USB port for stitching together in a graphics program as a single seamless image.
Some cameras have the ability to automate the entire process without the need to transfer images to a software program, or one may use a video camera. However, this article only introduces the topic and presents the challenge of employing an uncomplicated camera together with adopting a simple and inexpensive technique.
Panoramic Landscapes
Many subjects are suited to the panoramic format, but it's landscape photography that tends to benefit most from this genre. The power of panoramic vistas comes from the aspect ratio: the extended width of the viewing frame, simulating a field of view similar to that of the human eye.
Basic Guidelines
Obtaining professional results can be surprisingly straightforward, provided one follows some basic rules during shooting:
- Ensure constant lighting conditions. If lighting is changeable, working quickly is important.
- Use a tripod and set up meticulously. This should improve image alignment later on.
- Avoid scenes that include movement as this may increase difficulty of stitching later.
Panoramic views are best appreciated when printed. Users can print on multiple A4 pages in color and physically join pages together, or send the scene to a specialist printer.
Instructions for Stitching in MS Paint
- Select File New from the top menu. A white background will appear, then select File Open. Choose the photo that goes on the right hand side of the finished product
- Use the rectangular Select tool to select this picture. From the Edit menu, Cut the picture. This places the picture into memory.
- Select File Open again. Choose the photo that goes on the left hand side of the finished product
- Adjust the width to that of the finished product by running the mouse over the right hand “handle”, then click and drag to widen the white background.
- Paste the right hand picture using the Edit menu.
- An icon in the form of a cross will appear. This will let you click and drag to move the picture sideways to the desired position.
- Save the finished product as a JPEG format
Activity
The information contained in the web sources below should be glossed over for background or detail. In summary, a panoramic photo product may be created by following theses steps:
- Shoot the panoramic scene with your camera
- Use a tripod if possible
- Upload the digital photos to the computer via the USB port
- Import photos in a graphics program, like MS Paint.
- Stitch the photos together and save as a JPEG image
- Send the scene to the printer and admire your Work of Art
Sources:
- How to Shoot Panoramic Landscapes
- How to Print Panoramic Landscapes
- Australian Panoramic Landscapes
- Other Photography Challenge articles by the author:
- Time Series Photography Challenge
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