PTgui - without using Fisheye

Hi Stuart, I really do not know how to break this news to you, the camera is a little Sony Cybershot, lashed to a tripod from Aldi by means of a bent coat hanger and some Duck tape. Before you say about Nodal points and Parralax effects, you have actually given me the answer.I simply had not taken enough images.If you are still able to read this, and not passed out on the floor, the answers to your other questions are.

2)PTGui version 7.4
3)"Automatic" button is on
4)EXIF data is entered automatically
5)Anything upto 50 images, depending on subject
6)Yes this message appeared previously. I would enter more manually, obviously not enough though

Considering what it has to work with PTGui is doing a pretty good job now, only 2 images out of allignment.I tried moving them in the "Editor" but they are locked, is there a way to just move an individual image please? Thank you for your help, look out for my next post, "Where to buy used panorama equipment in the UK?". I really must get a proper camera and a fisheye lens.

arbie

Arbie,

Don't worry so about getting the fisheye lens. It'll reduce the number of shots needed to create a complete 360 degree view but isn't a must have. I'm currently shooting on a Nikon D70 with nothing more than the standard 18mm-70mm kit lens. It's more important to have something to rotate the camera correctly around the entrance pupil of the lens that you own. I end up with a 360 by 180 degree view in 31 shots. Ok this can cause problems with scenes containing movement but on the plus side the resolution of the finished panorama can be much higher than something shot with a fisheye lens as more source images are used.

Also remember when looking for a bracket to hold your camera, it doesn't have to be a bought one from a shop. So far the brackets I have use with this and my previous camera setup were both home made. You just need to know the required measurements and have access to the tools needed to make it.

Mind you after saying all that I too want a fisheye lens eventually but while I couldn't afford it to start with I'm sure I'll get one eventually.

Hope this helps,

Bob Bilsland.

Arbie,

Well, we sorted THAT little problem out!

If it's any consolation, I was wasting time in a museum recently and took a series of photos with my mobile phone. OK, the nodal point wasn't spot on, but they stitched together nicely. The next time I get seriously bored, I may well try to make a spherical QTVR with the same process.

As far as the Editor goes, I don't tend to use it as my current camera/head set up is pretty much there. I can mount the camera and use the 8mm or 15mm lens without so much as a second glance. The images lock together nicely. As time goes by, you'll should find that your 'rig' does the same thing. It's all down to practise.

For second hand kit, there's always the dreaded eBay ...

Stuart

Thanks everyone for your advice, it is really encouraging to know not everyone uses fisheye lenses. I have now bought a Panasaurus head which has to be a step up from a wire coat hanger.

arbie

Hi Arbie,

Why the hatred of fisheye lenses anyway ?

Dennis M. Carbo

Hi Dennis, It's not that I hate them, I just can not afford one at the moment, so I am building up my kit piece by piece. In fact a Fisheye is high on my wish list, as Bob said they save a lot of work. The next item a DSLR. I can not wait until I post my request for advice on which one of those to buy. I am guessing it will be a pretty heated debate between you guys on that topic. In fact I think I will do it tomorrow, Christmas day, what better time to spread peace and goodwill to one and all around the World! YO HO HO

arbie

Arbie,

I'd stick to the Sony Cybershot, the bent coat hanger and the duct tape routine ...!

However, I do have a 'neutral' way of sorting out your next question: go to 'Member Galleries', look at their VR examples and see what equipment they have listed under their profiles.

Peace and Goodwill in copious amounts guaranteed!

Stuart