What is a 360 Camera and how do they work?

What is a 360 camera?

Unlike a traditional camera that captures traditional rectangular footage, a 360 camera utilizes multiple lenses to provide an entire spherical view of your shot.

In this blog post, we’ll investigate how they work and what makes them distinct from conventional cameras. We will explore how the Insta360 x3 and other similar models function.

I’ve owned a 360 cameras for years from the Ricoh Theta to all the Insta360 X cams, and it’s definitely been very fun filming with them and getting amazing creative shots. Check my article on 360 cameras being great for travel.

Here is an example of my 360 video from Tokyo.

1. What is a 360 Camera?

A 360 camera is like a superhero camera that captures everything around it, not just what’s in front. It’s like having eyes in the back of your head, but in camera form.

This camera is a revolution for those interested in photography and videography. It lets you investigate each corner of a scene, making it appear as though you’re really there.

Difference Between Traditional And 360 Cameras

Regular cameras can only capture what’s in front of them, but 360 cameras capture everything around them. It’s like comparing a one-eyed pirate to a superhero with 360-degree vision.

Capturing All Directions Simultaneously

360 cameras achieve their all-seeing powers by using multiple lenses facing different directions. It’s like having a camera crew with eyes in every direction, capturing every angle at once.

The Resulting Image Format: Equirectangular Images Or Spherical Panoramas

After capturing all those angles, 360 cameras create images in either equirectangular format or spherical panoramas. These formats are compatible with popular VR software, so you can edit them into interactive environments if you’re feeling fancy.

The Role Of VR In the Popularity Of 360 Cameras

I have a VR headset ( Meta Quest 2) and its definitely part of the reason I bought a 360 camera.

The rise of Virtual Reality (VR) has made 360 cameras even more popular. With a VR headset, 360 cameras make it possible to explore distant places and take in unique views without ever leaving your home.

Here is my article on how to watch your 360 videos on a VR headset.

2. How Does a 360 Camera Work?

A 360 camera, also known as an omnidirectional camera, captures everything around it simultaneously using multiple lenses and fancy software.

Instead of taking pictures from one angle at a time, the 360 camera has two or more ultra-wide-angle lenses that capture all scenes without any blind spots.

You can see those lenses in the picture below.

Merging Images into One

After capturing the images, the camera stitches them together using specialized software, creating a flat representation of spherical data called an equirectangular projection image. You can view this image interactively on VR headsets and smartphones.

Spatial Audio Recording

Advanced models of 360 cameras can record sound from every direction, just like they capture visual content. This adds another layer of immersion when viewing footage through VR gear.

Importance of Image Stabilization

High-quality 360 cameras often have image stabilization to ensure smooth transitions between frames, preventing motion sickness when viewing footage through VR equipment.

Understanding how a 360 camera works opens up possibilities for creating immersive content, whether it’s for personal use or professional projects.

This is a 360 picture I took in Japan.

3. What Can You Do With a 360 Camera?

A 360 camera opens up a world of possibilities for photographers. It’s like having an extra set of eyes, only much more awesome. You can capture every angle, every detail, and create mind-blowing virtual reality experiences.

Taking Unique Photos and Videos

Forget about boring old photos. With a 360 camera, you can snap the entire environment in one frame. No more stiching to get full panoramas.

Plus, you can get creative with unique perspectives and mind-bending effects. Your Instagram game will never be the same.

Here is an example of a tiny planet view made possible by capturing entire scene in 360.

Capturing Events in every direction

Remember that epic concert or sports game? Well, with a 360 camera, you can relive it from every angle.

It’s especially useful when I travel and I notice all the things I missed, especially things behind or to the side of me.

Commercial uses of 360 camera

Not only for personal use, but also to explore a world of opportunities in the commercial space.

Real estate agents can give virtual house tours, journalists can tell immersive stories, and travel bloggers can make their audience feel like they’re right there with them.

Crafting Immersive 360 Virtual Reality Experiences

With a 360 camera, you can transport people to virtual reality. Just put on a VR headset, and boom. You’re swimming with dolphins or exploring ancient ruins. It’s the closest thing to being there without actually being there.

Here is an example of 360 photos stitched into a video on my trip to Budapest.

4.Why use a 360 Camera?

Capture More Detail

360 cameras can capture more detail than conventional devices. They take pictures and record videos from all angles simultaneously, leaving nothing out of the frame.

Shoot, then point

Your shots can be perfectly framed after you take the photo or videos, because you have captured the entire 360 frame.  So no chance of leaving yourself cut off in selfie videos, or something being just out of frame and missing the event.

This is my favorite part of these 360 cameras, that I don’t have to worry about missing something because selfie stick was at wrong angle and ruining the shot.

Social Media Engagement

In the digital world of today, social media is focused on delivering shared experiences. Live streaming with a 360 camera offers unique perspectives that engage audiences. It gives them control over what they want to view within each scene.

Ease Of Use And Versatility

They come with software and hardware interfaces that make it easy for beginners to start capturing stunning panoramic shots right away. This includes easy apps to use in the case of Insta360 right on your phone.

Whether indoors or outdoors, these gadgets perform excellently across various environments. Many of the 360 cams act as fast paced outdoor action cams.

5. What Are the Different Types of 360 Cameras?

Consumer-Grade 360 Cameras

I have owned the Ricoh Theta and Insta 360 X cams which are considered consumer grade at reasonable prices.

These cameras are typically smaller, lighter, and easier to use than their professional counterparts – making them an excellent choice for beginners or hobbyists interested in exploring virtual reality photography. They offer decent image quality and often come with user-friendly software that makes editing your shots a breeze.

Some popular options include the Insta360 X3 vs the GoPro Max . (my article comparing those two). Both provide high-quality images while being affordable enough for those just starting out in VR photography.

Professional-Grade 360 Cameras

If you’re looking to take your virtual reality experiences up a notch, consider investing in a professional-grade model like Insta360 Pro 2. 

Their build quality also tends to be superior compared with consumer models. They also have multiple lenses to capture the world in higher resolution.

Semi-Pro Grade Models

Falling somewhere between consumer-level devices and pro gear are semi-pro grade models like Insta360 RS 1 inch 360 edition. (my review article)

These offer some of the sophisticated features found on top-tier equipment but at slightly lower price points – making them ideal choices if you want good value without sacrificing too much functionality.

Read my extended article on benefits of using a 360 camera vs a regular camera while travelling.

If you are looking for more info and guide on everything about 360 cameras then take a look at my ultimate guide at that link.

FAQs in Relation to What is a 360 Camera

Why is a 360 camera important?

It allows you to capture your environment in an immersive way, rather than a small rectangular viewpoint.

What is the history of 360 cameras?

The first consumer-level 360 cameras burst onto the scene in the early 2010s, evolving from technologies previously used for mapping and surveillance purposes. This article talks about how 360 cameras got their start in 1898!