A three dimensional film commonly referred to as 3D, has become the in thing in the film industry. Although the technology has existed since 1950s, it only became more successful and popular in the early 2000. Also known as stereoscopic 3D; the technology creates a kind of illusion depth insight or perception. The unparallel success of 3D presentations in Avatar in 2009 and early last year are just but a few examples of the magic in the emerging technology. (Gary, 1996)
But how does this concept of 3D woks? Obtained from stereoscopic shooting or photography, a usual motion camera is used to capture the images as viewed from two perspectives or images generated from a computer. A particular Projection hardware or sometimes eyewear is then used to give the impression of depth when watching the film. This makes the action and characters practical as they seem to be directly in front of you. (Ray, 7)
Digital experts are unanimous that the utilization of 3D technology on television and computers is an idea whose time has come. According to Mr. Jamie Speakman, a Digital Public Relations Specialist at Panasonic, there would soon be a myriad of 3D programming on TV other than sports. The specialist says that Sky Television station based in the UK have rolled out elaborate plans to lead the pack after they recently launched their 3D channel. The specialist added that other TV stations in other parts of the globe are also partnering with Panasonic to be part of the new era. (Elizabeth, 21)
“In terms of broadcasting in the UK Sky that will lead this new area and have recently launched their 3D channel. In other parts of the globe, other TV companies have announced partnerships with Panasonic to bring 3D content to their countries”, he says.
Although critics have argued that 3D TV forces one to put on eye glasses which cause fatigue while watching, Jamie disagrees. He says that watching 3D TV without glasses is now a possibility and that with the strides that Panasonic have made to shutter glasses, fatigue or eyestrain during watching would be a thing of the past. However, he is quick to add that this requires the building of lenses in front of the television set to act as a substitute for the eye glasses. Nevertheless, this would completely eliminate the possibility of watching any 2D programming on the same set.
For those ready to get the most out of the new technology, Jamie has an advice. He says that lowering the lights create the best effect as it improves picture qualities. He also says that the viewing distance ought to be closer as compared to the 2D so that one’s peripheral condition is completely filled with the content. Jamie also says that for best results with the 3D technology is to have a large screen.
“You’ll get the best effect of 3D if you have the lights lowered, but that’s not to say that you can’t watch 3D TV in normal daylight conditions. You will still see the 3D effect in normal daylight but the effect of the viewable picture performance is improved when you are watching it in lower light”, he says adding that “Viewing distances tend to be a little bit closer for 3D than they would be under normal 2D conditions in order to get the most out of the 3D effects so that your peripheral vision is completely filled with the content”
The PR specialist is certain that the Blue-Ray player would be launched at the same time with 3DTV in April. Although he is not sure when studios are likely to begin producing 3D Blue-Ray discs, the specialist says this would not take long.
Works cited
Ray, Z. Stereoscopic cinema & the origins of 3-D film. London. Oxford University press .2007 print.
Elizabeth, H. 3D television: The modern technology. London: Daily Telegraph Newspaper.2010 print
Gary, M. Gregory, B. & Portland, O. Movie analysis, international film, motion pictures. Journal of Performing Arts 10(1), 38-48.1996 print
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