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360 Camera Best Practices for TillerXR Auto-Tour Generation
Our Auto-Tour Generation feature leverages GPS coordinates to automatically add hotspots, significantly reducing development time. This allows you to focus on the creative elements of your tour, such as adding customizable infospots to enhance user engagement and tailor the experience to match your brand.
Cameras That Capture GPS Data
The following 360 cameras are known to capture GPS data, either natively or through connected apps:
- Ricoh Theta X [exclusive discount code for TillerXR Subscribers)
- Ricoh Theta Z1
- GoPro Max (with GPS enabled in the GoPro app)
- Insta360 ONE X2 (via the Insta360 app or GPS Smart Remote)
- Insta360 ONE RS (with GPS-enabled mods or connected via the app)
- Garmin VIRB 360 (GPS built-in)
- Insta360 Pro 2 (when paired with the GPS module)
These cameras capture essential GPS data, which is used for automating processes like auto tour generation in TillerXR. Be sure to enable GPS functionality in the camera settings or companion app for accurate data capture.
Camera Rentals
We've partnered with Lensrentals to offer exclusive discounts on camera rentals for TillerXR subscribers.
Best Practices for Shooting Virtual Tours with a 360 Camera
To get the best results from our Auto-Tour Generation feature, follow these recommended practices during your shoot:
1. Calibrate Your Camera's Compass
Before you begin, ensure your camera’s compass is properly calibrated. Accurate directional data is essential for a smooth tour creation process. This will allow the system to correctly interpret the orientation of each image, ensuring seamless transitions.
2. Verify GPS Functionality
Make sure your camera’s GPS is turned on and actively capturing coordinates. Here’s how:
- Perform a quick test shot and upload it to your computer.
- Check the image’s metadata to ensure GPS data (latitude and longitude) is being recorded properly. This step ensures that your virtual tour has the precise geographical information needed for hotspot generation.
3. Face the Camera North
Identify the "front" of your 360 camera and always face it north during the shoot. This is a critical step for ensuring the best results from the Auto-Tour Generation feature.
- Why Face North?
The auto tour generation uses both GPS coordinates and pano heading data (the direction the camera is facing) to create hotspots and transitions. Cameras like the Ricoh Theta X capture both GPS and pano heading data, but some cameras may only capture latitude and longitude. - Importance of Pano Heading:
Pano heading helps determine the orientation of the image. Without it, the system may struggle to align hotspots correctly. If your camera doesn’t capture pano heading data, consistently facing it north provides a uniform orientation, which is crucial for smooth tour navigation.
4. Allow Time for GPS Calibration
Like any GPS device, your camera needs a few seconds to accurately determine its position after being set up. Once you’ve placed your camera, wait for a few seconds before taking a shot to allow the GPS to calibrate properly. This ensures more accurate data and smoother tour generation.
Key Takeaways
- Consistency is Key: Always face your 360 camera north to ensure consistent pano heading data, especially if your camera doesn’t capture pano heading automatically.
- Double-Check Your Setup: Verify that your camera’s GPS is enabled and recording accurate data.
- Give it Time: Allow a few seconds for GPS calibration after setting your camera down to ensure precise positioning.
- Leverage Technology: Use TillerXR’s Auto-Tour Generation feature to save time and focus on creating a visually engaging and interactive virtual tour.