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6. Panoramic
A panorama is a sequence of images stitched together using photo stitching software.
StackShot 3X can automate panoramic image collection when coupled with the Cognisys rotary
table. There are three panoramic modes supported:
1. Single-Axis – Merge a single row of images using rotation.
2. Single-Axis 360 degree – merge a single row of images for a 360 degree rotation.
3. Multi-Row – Merge rows and columns of images using two rotary tables.
The process is similar between all three panoramic modes.
6.1 Panoramic: Initial Setup
6.1.1 Camera Settings
Before we get into how to use the controller let’s review some strategies for getting that perfect
panorama. Some of this may be obvious so apologies in advance! These are only guidelines and
certain shooting situations will require deviations from these suggestions.
6.1.1.1 Camera Mode
We recommend that your camera be in manual mode. You will want the exposure to be set
explicitly by adjusting the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO manually (NOT set to “Auto”) to
avoid/reduce exposure differences from frame to frame.
6.1.1.2 ISO
The ISO setting should not be set to “Auto” to avoid exposure differences. Typically a setting of
100 or 200 is reasonable.
6.1.1.3 Aperture
At least f/8, or even higher. The higher the f-stop the greater depth of field (DOF). So why not
just shoot at f/22 for maximum DOF? You will lose sharpness due to diffraction. The aperture
setting will be a balance of foreground and background DOF/focus and sharpness. Too low of an
f-stop and you could run into vignetting. If you see a darker exposure around the edges of each
frame then you should probably increase the f-stop.
Once the aperture is set adjust the shutter speed to set the proper exposure. It would be a
good idea to check the exposure at different points in the entire panorama so that no point is
over or under-exposed.
6.1.1.4 Auto-Focus
Typically you will want auto-focus off to prevent distortion in the final stitched image. The only
time you would want auto-focus on is when near-field objects would be out of focus at your
aperture setting. If you are going to use auto-focus be sure your focus point in your camera is
set to the proper location. Use auto-focus with caution since it could potentially ruin a beautiful
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