HDR Imaging, Spheron Spherocam HDR

HDR stands for high dynamic range and refers to an image, which contains a very large degree of exposure or brightness values. Such an image cannot be printed on paper or displayed on a screen, as these media do not have sufficient range, but the data recorded by an HDR image is a much closer representation to the range of brightness levels perceived in the real world and is a very powerful tool for the 3D visualiser.

 

Realising that this exciting visualisation technique offers new creative possibilities and significant financial advantages for location or studio shots, experienced photographers are applying their expertise to 3D rendering using HDR imaging to get the perfect image.

 

One of the most advanced HDR cameras available today is the Spherocam HDR camera. This uses a 32bit per colour CCD mounted in a rotating scanning camera mechanism mounted on a tripod. Using a standard Nikon Fish Eye lens the camera records a series of 180 degree vertical scans representing the full 360 degree scene, capturing both the colour and exposure data, up to 26 f-stops in one image This scanning and recording process is fully automated and the final HDR image is available in a native HDR format via the attached laptop. This elegant one-step solution is very efficient when compared with using multiple bracketed exposure techniques, which require significant post processing to get a final HDR image.

 

 An example 360 degree scene captured with SpheroCam

 

ARTVPS has teamed with SpheronVR, to provide a complete solution for 3D high-dynamic range imaging (HDRI). The two companies have signed Strategic Technology Partner Agreements and ARTVPS is now a Global Distributor of the HDR Cameras.