Most internet users have had their first experience with 360 degree images on Facebook or YouTube. The idea of moving the smartphone and moving around in a photo as if you were standing there is a great way to create an impressive experience, especially when combined with virtual reality headsets such as Google Cardboard.
360 degree photography has become very popular in recent years because it is easier than ever to create a 360 degree image. Apps such as Google Street View and many more in the restrictive app stores allow you to quickly take a picture with a normal smartphone camera (sometimes called photo balls). The composition of these images is done by the software and has improved significantly in recent years.
For those who want to go even further and take better quality pictures, there are a number of devices available at different prices. They are also available in a number of configurations. Some have a lens that points up, others like the GoPro are a rig with many lenses (GoPro cameras) that point up. The images are then stitched together by software.
The camera we`re using is a Ricoh Theta S. It has two fisheye lenses positioned on either sider of the body to give a full 360-degree image. It`s a well-tested camera that`s pocket-sized, relatively inexpensive and easy to use. In addition, the images look great right out of the box. This article looks at the use and functionality of the Theta S and how we get the most out of the device in education.
How it works.
You can take the device out of the box and start taking pictures immediately. Instead of a display, it has a distinctive shutter release that falls well under your thumb when held normally, and a few useful lights that show which mode you`re in. However, you won`t be able to see the pictures immediately. You`ll need to download the Theta S app. The app allows you to connect to the camera via Wifi. It is easy to set up and after installation you will get a live preview from the camera. You can also operate the camera completely by remote control, including settings for manual control, shutter speed and noise reduction. Once you`re done, you can transfer images to your smartphone.
Accompanying apps.
Ricoh has two apps that work with your theta ecosystem. Theta S is the main companion app used for taking and playing back images and videos. It also allows you to access manual recording modes.
The other app is Theta+, which allows you to add filters to images and create videos that move around the 360 degree image. You can then export to wherever you want.
Sharing.
Videos and normal pictures can be shared on most platforms. If you want to share the complete 360 degree photo, you have several options. Facebook supports 360 degree photos and from there you can share and use embed codes for blogs and websites. There are also new players and special sites like 360player.io.
360 degree photos in education.
This type of photography is great for taking you to places that are otherwise inaccessible, such as research labs or rooms where hazardous materials may be present. It can also help to introduce basic skills in an environment where you need to know certain processes or working methods before using real equipment such as laboratory equipment. You may be able to test yourself on the steps to using a centrifuge safely without worrying about damaging a real centrifuge.
Until recently, Google Expeditions was the key player, presenting 360-degree images of places around the world and taking groups on a virtual tour. Now we see that more and more companies are offering similar products. VR Drop and Share by VR Craftworks in Brighton each has a unique selling point and offers an innovative way to guide your travel group to a specific area of the screen at no cost. Nearpod also has a field trip option supported by 360 cities.
Technology Enhanced Learning explores H5P and some of the Pro features in Thinglink, because 360 degree images are immersive but still a passive experience.
Tools like Thinglink and H5P can add interactivity to the image. With the premium version of Thinglink, you can add hotspots to images and link to other content such as web links, videos, or other 360-degree images to create a tour. You can also embed web content such as Google Sheets or other interactive content such as H5P.
With H5P, you can create, share, and reuse interactive HTML5 content in your browser. For example, you can create quizzes, flashcards, sorting activities, audio response questions, accordion menus, interactive videos, and even images with hotspots, all completely free.
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