What is a Matterport?
Matterport is a company that specializes in 3D scanning technology, allowing users to create digital models of real-world spaces. These scans can be used for a variety of purposes, including real estate marketing, architectural design, and even virtual tourism. In this blog post, we’ll explore the technology behind Matterport scans and some of the ways they are being used today.
So, what exactly is a Matterport scan? Using specialized 3D scanning hardware and software, Matterport is able to create high-resolution, accurate digital models of real-world spaces. These scans can be navigated in a virtual reality environment, allowing users to “walk through” a space as if they were physically there.
One of the primary uses of Matterport scans is in the real estate industry. Real estate agents can use these scans to give potential buyers a more immersive, interactive experience when viewing a property. Rather than simply looking at static photos or video tours, buyers can explore a property in detail, getting a sense of the layout and flow of the space. Matterport scans can also be useful for architects and interior designers, as they can use the scans to get a detailed understanding of a space and begin planning renovations or redesigns.
Another use for Matterport scans is in virtual tourism. Many tourist attractions, such as museums and historical sites, have begun offering Matterport scans as a way for visitors to explore these spaces remotely. This can be especially useful for individuals who may not be able to physically visit a location due to disability, distance, or other factors.
One of the key benefits of Matterport scans is their high level of accuracy. The scans are able to capture detailed measurements of a space, including the size and shape of individual rooms and features. This level of detail can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as creating floor plans or estimating the materials needed for renovations.
Another advantage of Matterport scans is their ability to capture a space in its entirety. Traditional 2D photos or video tours can only show a limited perspective of a space, but with a Matterport scan, users can explore every corner of a property. This can be especially useful for buyers who want a more thorough understanding of a property before making a purchase.
One potential limitation of Matterport scans is that they do require specialized equipment and software to create. This means that not everyone will have access to the technology needed to create these scans. However, as 3D scanning technology becomes more widespread and affordable, it’s likely that Matterport scans will become more accessible to a wider range of users.
In conclusion, Matterport scans are a powerful tool for a variety of purposes, including real estate marketing, architectural design, and virtual tourism. Their high level of accuracy and ability to capture a space in its entirety make them a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore and understand a real-world space. While the technology required to create these scans may still be out of reach for some users, it’s likely that this will change as 3D scanning technology becomes more widespread in the coming years.
A 360 virtual tour is a fully immersive experience that allows users to explore a location or environment as if they were physically present there. These tours are created using 360-degree cameras, which capture the entire surroundings in a single shot, rather than just a narrow field of view. There are several different types of 360 virtual tour cameras available on the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities. In this blog, we will explore the various types of 360 virtual tour cameras and their key differences, to help you choose the right camera for your needs.
Monoscopic 360 Cameras
Monoscopic 360 cameras are the most basic and affordable type of 360 camera. They capture a single image or video that is then displayed on a flat screen, such as a computer or smartphone, using a technique called “stereographic projection.” This type of camera is suitable for creating simple virtual tours or 360-degree photos, but does not provide the full immersive experience of a true 3D environment.
Stereoscopic 360 Cameras
Stereoscopic 360 cameras, also known as 3D 360 cameras, capture two separate images or videos from slightly different angles, simulating the way that human eyes see the world. When viewed through a VR headset or 3D glasses, these images appear to be in 3D, creating a more realistic and immersive experience for the viewer. However, stereoscopic 360 cameras are generally more expensive and complex to use than monoscopic cameras.
Professional 360 Cameras
Professional 360 cameras are designed for high-quality, professional-grade virtual tours and content creation. These cameras often have advanced features such as high-resolution sensors, high dynamic range (HDR) capabilities, and support for external microphones. They may also have a higher price point, but are suitable for those who require the highest level of image quality and professional-grade features.
Consumer 360 Cameras
Consumer 360 cameras are more affordable and user-friendly than a professional Matterport scan, making them a good option for casual users or those new to 360 photography. These cameras generally have fewer features and lower image quality than professional cameras, but are still capable of creating decent virtual tours and 360-degree photos.
360 Camera Modules
360 camera modules are small, lightweight cameras that can be attached to a smartphone or other device to capture 360-degree photos and videos. These modules are generally affordable and easy to use, but may have lower image quality compared to standalone 360 cameras.
360 Cameras with Live Streaming Capabilities
Some 360 cameras have the ability to live stream 360-degree video, allowing viewers to experience the virtual tour in real-time. This can be useful for events, concerts, or other live experiences that you want to share with a larger audience.
Thermal 360 Cameras
Thermal 360 cameras use infrared technology to capture heat signatures, rather than visible light. This allows them to detect and display temperature differences in the environment, making them useful for a variety of applications such as building inspections, search and rescue, and military operations.
Underwater 360 Cameras
Underwater 360 cameras are specifically designed for capturing images and videos underwater. These cameras are waterproof and often have features such as built-in lights and image stabilization to help improve image quality in the challenging underwater environment. Cameras like this are able to do virtual tours where a Matterport scan could not!
In conclusion, there are many different types of 360 virtual tour cameras available, each with its own unique features and capabilities. When choosing a camera, consider your budget, the level of image quality you require, and the specific use case for your virtual tour. Whether you are a professional photographer or a casual user, there is a 360 camera that is right for you.
Compared to Matterport
Matterport Pro2 is a professional-grade 360 camera designed for creating high-quality 3D virtual tours and immersive experiences. With its advanced features and exceptional image quality, the Matterport Pro2 is a popular choice for real estate agents, architects, and other professionals who require the best possible virtual tours for their clients.
One of the key features of this Matterport scan is its ability to capture true 3D images and video. Unlike traditional 360 cameras, which use stereographic projection to create the illusion of depth, the Matterport Pro2 captures a series of 2D images that are then used to create a 3D model of the environment. This allows viewers to explore the virtual tour in a more realistic and immersive way, as they can move around and look in any direction, just as they would in the physical space.
The Matterport Pro2 also has a high-resolution camera with a large image sensor, which allows it to capture detailed images and video with excellent color accuracy. It has a dynamic range of up to 14 stops, which means it can handle a wide range of lighting conditions and still produce clear, well-exposed images. In addition, the camera has a built-in gyroscope and accelerometer, which help to stabilize the image and reduce the effects of camera shake.
Another feature of the Matterport Pro2 is its ability to capture spatial audio. This means that the virtual tour includes realistic audio that changes as the viewer moves around the environment, adding an extra layer of immersion to the experience. The camera also has a built-in microphone and support for external microphones, allowing you to capture high-quality audio to accompany the virtual tour.
In terms of connectivity, the Matterport Pro2 has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which allow you to easily transfer images and video from the camera to your computer or mobile device. It also has a USB-C port for charging and transferring data, as well as a microSD card slot for storing and transferring images and video.
The Matterport Pro2 is a powerful and versatile tool for creating professional-grade virtual tours. Its advanced features and exceptional image quality make it a top choice for real estate agents, architects, and other professionals who need to showcase properties or spaces in the best possible way, a Matterport scan. Whether you are creating a virtual tour for a luxury home, a commercial property, or a public space, the Matterport Pro2 is an excellent choice for capturing and sharing immersive 3D experiences.