The camera
In principle, it doesn’t matter which camera you use to take the photos. However, for Panoramax to be able to use the images, the image data must at least include the location of the shot in the form of coordinates and the time the photo was taken.
My experience with relevant cameras is limited to a GoPro Hero9 and two 360° cameras, an Insta360 X3 and a GoPro Max.
The Insta360 has the disadvantage that it cannot generate GPS data itself. Additional hardware is required for this.
That is why I chose the GoPro Max.
Camera settings
When using the images for Panoramax, it is advisable to create image sequences. This offers significant advantages for further processing and use.
To create suitable image sequences with a GoPro Max, I use the time-lapse mode with the following settings:
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One of the camera’s three basic modes (alongside video and single shot) is time-lapse mode.
In the bottom-left corner, we select the globe icon for 360° images. We then go to the submenu for time-lapse mode. |
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In the submenu, we select “360° time-lapse”. By tapping the pencil icon (red box), we open the settings for this mode. |
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There, select ‘Photo’ as the format. Otherwise, the camera will record videos.
Here, you also select the shooting interval. The interval defines the time between two shots. The shortest interval in 360° time-lapse mode is 2 seconds. In my experience, this is still sufficient for fast-moving shots (car), and it’s perfect for cycling. When walking, 5 seconds is actually sufficient. However, 2 seconds is also fine; it just means more images are captured per distance. This can be quite useful in areas with a lot of detail, such as city centres. |
It is advisable to check the camera and its settings once more before starting a photo session.
- Is the battery fully charged?
- Is a memory card inserted?
- Do both have sufficient capacity?
- Are the settings as described above?
For example, a light press on the on/off switch on the side is enough to set the camera to single-shot or video mode.
That is why a quick check before pressing the shutter button prevents frustration during and annoyance after the session.