High school final project – 3D stereoscopic video

Introduction

Creating a 3D stereoscopic video might seem like a job for specialized equipment and software, but for my high school final project, I embarked on a journey to prove otherwise. Using two iPhone cameras, a DIY Lego rig, and Sony Vegas for post-production, I explored how everyday tools could be harnessed to create an immersive viewing experience.

A study about 3D stereoscopic videos by recording simultaneously with two iPhone normal cameras and editing with Sony Vegas adding red-cyan filters.

 

You can check the depth effect with a simple carton stereoscopic glasses.

Technologies Used

  • Hardware: Two iPhone cameras, DIY Lego rig
  • Software: Sony Vegas for video editing, Photoshop for image composition
  • Additional Materials: Red-cyan filters for 3D effect

Project Goals

  1. Create a working 3D video using common household technology.
  2. Understand the underlying principles of 3D optics and depth perception.
  3. Achieve a high-grade academic evaluation, aiming for a score of 10/10.

Challenges Faced

  • Lack of Prior Knowledge: I had never used Sony Vegas before, nor had I created a 3D video.
  • Technological Limitations: Working with consumer-grade equipment meant I had to find creative solutions for complex optics problems.
  • Interdisciplinary Focus: The project required me to acquire knowledge in multiple areas, from videography to optics.

Solutions and Approaches

  • Self-Education: I began by learning the basics of Sony Vegas and how to compose images with Photoshop.
  • Optics Research: A deep dive into the principles of 3D optics and depth perception helped me understand how to effectively capture 3D video.
  • Iterative Testing: I composed images with Photoshop first, understanding the mechanics before moving on to video.

Key Features

  • DIY Rig: A custom-built Lego structure served as a stand-in for specialized 3D recording equipment.
  • Red-Cyan Filters: Added in post-production to achieve the 3D stereoscopic effect.
  • Interdisciplinary Research: Combination of optics theory and videography practice.

Outcomes and Impact

  • Academic Excellence: The project received a perfect score of 10/10.
  • Showcase: It was showcased to my entire classroom, generating considerable interest.
  • Personal Growth: Proved to myself that I could tackle complex, interdisciplinary projects.

Lessons Learned

  • Focus is Key: This project taught me the value of setting clear objectives and being focused on the target, rather than getting lost in technological challenges.
  • Interdisciplinary Aptitude: I discovered my ability to work on projects that require knowledge and skills from various fields.

Future Directions

  • Polarized 3D: Acquired an LG monitor and NVIDIA Vision Kit with plans to explore polarized 3D video techniques.

Acknowledgments

Special thanks to my teachers who provided valuable feedback, and my classmates who served as an enthusiastic audience.

Release Date

2011