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Behind the Scenes: How A360 Captures Reality

Digital Archiving
Author
Chanon Satienphan
April 15, 2024

At A360, we specialize in capturing the world in stunning, immersive 360-degree images. Whether it’s a cultural heritage site, an art exhibition, or a commercial space, our process ensures that every detail is preserved with precision and care. Here's a look behind the scenes at how we capture reality in 360.


1. Space Assessment

The first step in every project is assessing the space we’ll be capturing. Whether it’s a grand gallery, a historic building, or a modern showroom, understanding the layout and unique characteristics of the environment is crucial. During this phase, we evaluate the lighting, space dimensions, and key features that need to be highlighted in the final 360-degree photo. This allows us to plan the shoot effectively and ensure the final product will be as immersive as possible.


2. Storytelling

Every space has a story to tell, and at A360, we believe in capturing that story. Whether it’s the intricate details of an artist’s work or the architectural beauty of a building, we approach each project with a narrative in mind. This storytelling aspect guides our shooting process, helping us choose the right angles and focal points that will resonate with the viewer. Our goal is to create more than just a digital representation; we aim to offer an experience that engages and transports the viewer into the space.


3. Setup Camera, Parameters, and 360 Equipment

Once the story has been mapped out, it’s time to set up the equipment. We carefully position the camera and set the parameters to ensure optimal image quality. High-end DSLR cameras with specialized wide-angle lenses are mounted on a tripod and connected to advanced 360-degree photography gear. Depending on the space, we may use additional equipment like remote triggers, stabilizers, or special rigs to ensure smooth captures. The camera settings are calibrated to the lighting conditions, and we ensure all angles are covered to create a seamless 360-degree experience.


4. Test Shot

Before proceeding with the full shoot, we take a test shot. This allows us to assess the exposure, composition, and coverage of the space. A test shot helps ensure that the camera settings are correct, and it gives us a chance to make any adjustments to the setup if needed. This step is crucial for fine-tuning the equipment and making sure the final images meet our high standards.


5. Postproduction – Export, Stitch HDR Photos, Retouch Tripod and Unwanted Objects if Necessary

Once the photos are captured, the postproduction process begins. We start by exporting the high-resolution images and using specialized software to stitch them together into a seamless 360-degree panorama. To enhance the quality, we use HDR (High Dynamic Range) techniques, merging multiple exposures to create images that have excellent detail, color, and contrast, even in challenging lighting conditions. In some cases, we need to retouch the images to remove any tripod marks or unwanted objects that may have appeared during the shoot. This is a meticulous process, ensuring that the final product looks flawless and true to life.


6. Final Fully 360 Photos – Virtual Tour Creation

After the postproduction, the resulting high-quality 360-degree images are ready to be transformed into a fully interactive virtual tour. These processed images serve as the building blocks for creating immersive virtual experiences that allow viewers to explore every aspect of a space as if they were physically there. The images are integrated into virtual tour software, where they are linked together to create seamless transitions and interactive navigation. This allows viewers to virtually "walk" through an art gallery, roam through historical sites, or explore architectural spaces from the comfort of their own homes. The final result is an engaging and interactive experience that makes the world more accessible, one 360-degree image at a time.


Consulsion

At A360, we take great pride in our process. From initial assessment to final postproduction and virtual tour creation, every step is designed to capture reality with precision, ensuring our clients receive images that are not just visually stunning but also a true representation of the spaces they hold dear.