Is shooting in 360-degrees right for you? Part -3/4

• Is shooting in 360-degrees right for you?

  Now that you’ve seen some of the popular types of videos that are being shot in 360-degrees, it’s time to decide if this format will work for you! While the technology is really exciting, it’s important to weigh the intended viewing experience with productionrequirements to justify whether or not to try out shooting in 360-degrees.

  Remember, the audience is essentially dropped into a scene, so it’s critical to negotiate how they will fit and what you can do to keep them engaged while telling your story. It’s no longer just someone watching but an individual’s experience that you must design every detail of. Spherical video requires a lot of prep and it’s not for everyone. But the work coming out of it is changing the video industry and making experiences that move viewers and get them to take action.

  Try asking these questions when making a decision to move forward with VR and 360-degree video:

  1. Would a 360-degree perspective give your viewers an experience--physical or emotional--that they otherwise couldn’t have? The most effective 360-degree videos are the ones where the technology plays a central role in making it enjoyable to watch. So would this enhance the topic of your video, or just be a visual gimmick?
  2. Will you be recording in an environment rich with interesting things for a viewer to see? Or is there just some blank walls and your laundry basket?
  3. Do you want your viewers to look around?Or would you rather their attention be fixed on something? Sometimes 360-degree videos can actually make people less observant because they have so many options. If you want to focus a viewer’s attention and guide what they see, 360 video may not be the best choice. Or, try using a narrative voice or character to direct attention.

Try it

Search for 360 videos on YouTube and watch a few. If you have a VR viewing device, like Google Cardboard, search for and watch one or two videos in virtual reality. If you don’t have one, try searching on Google for how to find one. What do you like most about each type of viewing experience?