Difference between 3D still and 3D sweep panorama?

[Cameronpaterson]

Hello

I have a Cybershot WX5, which as some of you will know, has a 3D sweep panorama function. However, I notice that some of the more recently released models rather confusingly also include a 3D stills function. What is the (real world) difference between 3D stills and 3D sweep panoramas? Would there be any real point in me upgrading to one of the more recent models purely for the 3D stills function.

(Yes, I do have a 3D-capable TV).

Any info much appreciated!

Message was edited by: StartTheCar

[Watashiwateshdes]

Both work in slightly different ways so it really depends on what you are after.

The Cybershot range which have Sweep Panorama record the image as a movie and then take a slice of each image to create the final result.

3D stills however work without the sweep motion taking 2 images one after another focusing at various depths so in theory creating a higher resolution image, BUT more prone to blur from camera shake since it takes a bit longer.

Best thing before considering the upgrade is take your Memory Stick/SD down to a dealer who has one of the newer models and take a few pictures. Then you can go home and compare.

In all honesty, even thought Sweep Panoramic models record as a movie then slice it up, the differences in the real world are not that different.

Hope that helps.

[Cameronpaterson]

Thank you for the informative answer, much appreciated As it happens, though I've already succumbed to temptation and and bought a HX7V because I wanted a camera with integrated GPS. It's nice to have the two different 3D options as bonus!

[virobin30]

Hello,
I apologize in advance for my poor English.
I  have an Alpha 550 and would like to know if it is possible to update  the firmware to have the 3D panorama and panorama functions.
Regardless of the firmware update, is it possible to have the PC software to transform a sequence of photos (burst of photos) to a panorama photo or a 3D image.
Thank you in advance for your response
Vincent

[virobin30]

This a test for the answers

Vincent

[cmosse]

The 3D sweeppanorama is created by rotating the camera to a certain degree and the camera combines the sensor readout taken from different perspectives to create the stereoscopic effect. In 3D still image mode the camera creates an 3D image by using the data of a depth map which is derived from a defocused image. Therefore the 3D effect is in most cases stronger in 3D sweeppanorama mode. You can create a 3D image in 16:9 format using the sweeppanorama technique by setting the aspect ratio in the 3D sweeppanorama setting.