Volumetric video is basically a technique, which captures a space from three dimensions. This form of volumography collects data that can be displayed on the screens using VR goggles or 3D displays. Its ability to capture an image from a 360-degree angle is also reckoned as six degrees of freedom.
The potentials of volumetric videos have been realized, and its market is growing at an exponential rate. In fact, the market is speculated to be valued at $2.78 billion by the year 2023. In this blog, we are sharing vital information that will help you understand this thriving notion.
How Does volumetric Studio Produces the Video?
In this video, basically, the scene is captured from different angles, and then this captured data is used to generate a depth map of the environment. An individual Manifold captures every direction using at least four sensors. In more advanced cases, the sensor numbers can increase up to seven. Additionally, the Manifold is equipped with 16 RED Helium 8K sensors accompanied by a fish-eye lens that features an F/4.0 aperture custom Schneider 180-degree. It has the ability to combine the captured images to generate a high-quality 360-degree video. Once the video is captured, it can be used for an array of purposes.
Applications of volumetric Videos
In this section we are highlighting some projects created by volumetric studios. This will give an idea of the potential that this technology holds. While some need AR or VR headset, others can be viewed directly on your smart devices.
CLOUDS
CLOUDS is a production by Jonathan Minard and James George. It is an interactive and engaging documentary, which centers on the community of digital leaders. The scenes are explored to view the lens of code. This project questions the future of the creative sphere during the time where algorithms hold a prominent place. It is the first documentary to combine volumetric video with virtual reality.
Highrise – Universe Within
It is another interactive documentary that travels through the hearts, minds, computers, and apartments of vertical people across the globe. Universe Within aims to exhibit the life of digital humans in the 21st century.
Zero Days VR
Zero Days is directed by Alex Gibney and is based on Participant Media. It introduces a unique dimension by reciting a story from a viewpoint that was not possible prior to the advent of virtual reality. It visualizes the Stuxnet story from a whole new perspective. The audiences are placed within an invisible realm surrounded by computer viruses that are experiencing human-scale cyber warfare. Zero Days VR, for its exceptional depiction, won an Emmy award and became the first volumetric video to win the award.
Imogen Heap Holographic Concert
For this project, Imogen Heap, the recording artist, and music technology innovator collaborated with an exemplary social Virtual Reality platform, TheWaveVR. The team-up of the two pioneers was to develop never seen before immerse music performance. Imogen Heap relies on the Depthkit-centered holographic experience. In this, the Imogen performs a wide range of songs.
Virtual Art Sessions
Virtual Art Sessions is produced by Google Data Arts and focuses on Chrome Experiment in VR art. It is produced with Tilt Brush, an immersive drawing program. Tech-giant Google collaborated with six reckoned artists from across the world and provided them with a unique way to paint, sculpt, and draw. Sessions of each artist are recorded through Depthkit and accessible on the internet. Harald Belker, Yok & Sheryo, Seung Yul Oh, Andrea Blasich Katie Rodgers, and Christoph Niemann are the artist participating in this program.
Considering that it is still a new medium, many films are still held only in festivals because the installations are yet to be distributed.
The Bottom Line
People have this misconception that the potentials of the volumetric video are restricted to the sphere of virtual reality. However, the technology is still new, and its applications are yet to be explored. It is certain that volumetric video holds power to change the way cinematography works. Similarly, with research and experimentation, we expect this technology to be put in use across different industries. Presently, there are some pitfalls that need to be addressed prior to expanding its applications. Once the challenges are out of the way, we can expect to witness massive expansion in its applications.
