What Is Stereoscopy and What Do You
Need To Know About It
"Stereoscopy" sounds like something new and challenging to many laymen and
even to some photographers. But it's a simple concept that's been around for quite a
few years now. It is commonly known as 3D photography. It is based on a theory
formulated by Charles Wheatstone back in the 1830s when he invented and created
the stereoscope. According to Wheatstone, it is possible to obtain a three-
dimensional image by combining two-dimensional images, especially when they
are taken or drawn from two different points.
What Is Stereoscopy?
Although 3D movies were not available to the general public until the early 20th
century, the stereoscope allowed people to conveniently view 3D images. Hand-held
stereoscopes have opened up more possibilities not only for pleasure and
entertainment (for example, gazing at distant places) but also for education. It was
even used in the art (painting and sculpture).
Why is stereoscopy important in photography?
Generally, photography has always been viewed as a visual representation
in 3D and 2D. So, in a sense, stereoscopy is part of photography, regardless
of what purists (especially in the early days of stereoscopes) in the industry
say. Creativity is the main reason why stereoscopy is something all
photographers should try. If you were to tell a story, you would like to do it
the best you can, right? And after all, the use of three-dimensional images is
one way to achieve this goal. These images have more depth, more life, and
seem more interesting to viewers. 3D photos challenge your creativity
because they look realistic, just like life.
Some people say that converting plain and flat photos to 3D is like
reproducing nature, which they don't think is the purpose of photography.
Photos should show nature indifferent impressions, through the eyes of the
photographer and the lens of the camera. However, 3D photos are the same
as the classic shots that everyone is used to - they just have a certain aspect
that makes them look different and, in most cases, closer to reality.
Another reason to try stereoscopy is its popularity. At some point in your life
in photography, you will find that a portion of your audience is drawn to
three-dimensional images. It's almost as if you could touch the subject in the
pictures! Just thinking about it is enough to create a ripple effect. Finally, it's
a good idea to simply add stereoscopy to a photographer's portfolio - it's
very beneficial, especially in our technologically advanced age. Nowadays,
finding a stereoscope can be quite a challenge. But this does not mean that
you cannot use stereoscopy in your practice. Several techniques can be used
to give an interesting effect to images.
Read the full blog here.