The basics

222 ADVANCED PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS 5.0 FOR DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHERS
MAKING BETTER PANORAMAS
One common mistake is to move to the center of the environment, set up the equipment and
create a sequence of images with most of the subject detail in the mid or background of the
picture. This type of panorama provides a good overview of the whole scene but will have little of
the drama and compositional sophistication that a traditional picture with good interaction of
foreground, mid ground and background details contains.
When deciding on where to position your camera sweep the area whilst looking through the
viewfi nder. Ensure that the arc of proposed images contains objects that are close to the camera,
contrasted against those subjects that are further into the frame.
Camera positioning >> Unlike traditional photography the panoramic image-maker must pre-visualize how the
stitched picture will appear when considering where to position the camera.
Extend this compositional idea further by intentionally positioning the nearest and
most dramatic objects in the scene one-third (or two-thirds) of the way into the
sequence of images. This will provide balance to the photograph by positioning this
point of focus according to the ‘rule of thirds’ in the fi nal panorama.
9.02 Camera support
Suitable for Elements – 5.0, 4.0, 3.0, 2.0, 1.0 | Diffi culty level – Intermediate | Related techniques – 9.01, 9.09
Though not essential for shooting the odd sequence of images, most panoramic professionals
insist on using a tripod coupled with a special panoramic head to capture their pictures. The
tripod provides a stable and level base for the camera; the panoramic head positions the camera
and lens precisely over the pivot point of the tripod and also contains regular click stops to
indicate points in the spin to capture a photograph. Each stop is designed to provide optimum
coverage for each frame, taking into account the required edge overlap.
This set up increases the effectiveness of your stitching software’s ability to accurately blend the
edges of your images. Companies like Kaidan (www.kaidan.com), Manfrotto (www.manfrotto.
com) and Peace River Studios (www.peaceriverstudios.com) manufacture VR equipment
specifi cally for particular cameras and lenses. You can purchase a tripod head designed
specifi cally for your camera or choose a head that can be adjusted to suit any camera.
Book resources at: www.adv-elements.com