|
gigapan.org
Exploring Gigapan images is a bit like walking through Wonderland. |
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed an intriguing way to enhance digital photography that could have significant implications for photojournalism, news sites, and any effort to share visual information or experiences. Check out
Gigapan.
Here's how CMU explains the Gigapan process and project: "GigaPan consists of three technological developments: a robotic camera mount for capturing very high-resolution (gigapixel and up) panoramic images using a standard digital camera; custom software for constructing very high-resolution gigapixel panoramas; and, a new type of Web site for exploring, sharing and commenting on gigapixel panoramas and the detail our users will discover within them. The GigaPan site allows hosting and sharing all kinds of panoramas, and so the robotic GigaPan mount is recommended but is certainly not required to be part of this community."
Words and still images don't convey the visual impact. Go explore some Gigapan images, and note their extraordinary blend of context and detail. Then imagine what value this could offer in news situations, such as crowd scenes at a political rally, a riot, the aftermath of a storm, or a bridge collapse.
Furthermore, imagine what this technology could do in the hands of civilians and soldiers in a conflict situation, or citizen journalists documenting local events or conditions.
(Thanks to Tom Vilot for the tip.)
Susan Moeller seems to think it would. I'm not sure...
