Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 with Seitz D3 / D3-2500 Digital Scan Back Software release: 4.05 (May 2013) Instruction 2.4 4.05 – June 20092013 - ©- by©Seitz Phototechnik AG /AG Switzerland www.roundshot.ch InstructionManual ManualRoundshot RoundshotD3 D3 - version - version – May by Seitz Phototechnik / Switzerland www.roundshot.
Please note throughout the document that “Seitz D3 digital scan back” applies equally to the “Seitz D3 2500 digital scan back”. Differences between the two versions are mentioned wherever relevant and necessary. Instruction 2.4 4.05 – June 20092013 - ©- by©Seitz Phototechnik AG /AG Switzerland www.roundshot.ch InstructionManual ManualRoundshot RoundshotD3 D3 - version - version – May by Seitz Phototechnik / Switzerland www.roundshot.
CONTENTS 1. System Overview Page 1.1 Roundshot D3 1.2 Other compatible cameras 1.3 Computer / tablet PC 1.4 Accessories 4 5 5 6 2. How To Get Started 2.1 Step 1: Get the camera ready 2.2 Step 2: Get the computer ready 2.2.1 With tablet PC 2.2.2 With other computers 2.3 Step 3: Select shoot settings 2.4 Step 4: Adjust your settings 2.5 Step 5: Save the image 9 14 14 15 21 22 22 3. Seitz Roundshot D3 Capture Software 3.1 Shoot menu 3.1.1 Shoot settings 3.1.2 Focusing Assistant 3.1.3 Zoom 3.1.
CONTENTS 4. Tips & Resources (How To...) Page 4.1… set the b-value (camera head position) 4.2… obtain the best sharpness 4.3 … control the exposure 4.4 … use variation with manual exposure 4.5 … select the image format 4.6 … compute the capture time 4.7 … minimise noise at image capture 4.8 … shift 4.9 … create a spherical QTVR panorama 4.10 … create turntable scans 4.11 . . . use a USB GPS device 4.12 . . . use a compass 4.13 . . . program the scheduler 4.14 . . .
1. System Overview 1.
1.2 Other compatible cameras The Seitz D3 Digital Scan Back can be removed from the Roundshot D3 and attached to other camera bodies. At the moment of release of this manual it can be used with: Seitz 6x17 Digital The D3 software detects the attached camera and adapts its software parameters automatically (for example, the image format). 1.3 Computer / tablet PC The camera is controlled by a connected computer (tablet PC) which also serves to visualise and store the images.
1.4 Accessories Tablet PCs and accessories: Motion J3500 Mobile Keyboard for Motion J3500 Battery charger Power supply (mains adaptor) Laptop holder to attach on a tripod NiMh battery 12V 4.5A USB GPS device: GlobalSat BU-353 USB Digital compass Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
1.4 Accessories (continued) Power plugs for different countries: Continental Europe United Kingdom North America (USA, Canada, Mexico) & Japan Australia & New Zealand Lens mounts: Nikon Mamiya 645 Please note that Schneider and Rodenstock medium format lenses are mounted on lens tubes and are attached directly to the camera without lens mount Hasselblad Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
1.4 Accessories (continued) Various additional accessories: Starter cable Counterweight Compendium for Schneider Apo Digitar lenses Compendium for 24mm Mamiya 645 fisheye lens Front glass cover for the Seitz D3 digital scan back Lens mount protection cover Back mount protection cover Waterproof housing with motor Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
2. How To Get Started 2.1 Step 1: Get the camera ready The Roundshot D3 camera is delivered fully assembled. When disassembled it can be reassembled in the following way: Ethernet and power cable Optical bench Camera body Battery Motor Lens 1 Fix the optical bench to the motor using a screw driver. Depending on the size of the lens it is possible to attach the optical bench at 2 positions (A or B). A is optimised for short lenses and B for long lenses.
2.1 Step 1: Get the camera ready (continued) 2 Slide the camera body into the optical bench holder and close the camera body release firmly: 3 Attach the Seitz D3 digital scan back to the camera body and make sure to close the four lens brackets (4) firmly: Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
2.1 Step 1: Get the camera ready (continued) 4 Now connect the power and ethernet cables (8+9) between the Seitz D3 digital scan back and the engine. Connect the power cable (8) in the roundshot connectors: Connect the ethernet cable (9) in the ethernet connectors: 5 Connect the battery by placing the battery connector firmly into the socket and by fastening the battery release tightly (22): Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.
2.1 Step 1: Get the camera ready (continued) 6 Attach the lens to the camera body. Schneider and Rodenstock lenses come on an Alpa lens tube and are attached directly to the camera body. Other brands (for example: Mamiya 645) have a separate lens mount (tube) on which the lens is attached with a bayonet mount. open open Make sure to close the two black lens brackets (4) firmly: close open Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.
2.1 Step 1: Get the camera ready (continued) 7 Place the camera on a solid tripod. The Roundshot D3 camera comes with a large (3/8‘‘) thread. For smaller tripods (1/4‘‘ thread) can be inserted into the camera bottom plate. Make sure that the spirit bubble of the camera is level.
2.2 Step 2: Get the computer ready 2.2.1 With tablet PC (supplied with camera) For cameras supplied with a tablet PC the Seitz Roundshot D3 software is already installed on the tablet PC and the network configuration is complete. Start the tablet PC by pushing the on/off button on the right side of the computer. The start-up takes approximately one minute: „on/off“ button The tablet PC is operated with the supplied digital pen via touch screen.
2.2 Step 2: Get the computer ready 2.2.2 With all other computers For all other computers download the latest software version from the „Club D3“ website (www.roundshot.ch) and load the Seitz Roundshot D3 installer program (exe) on your computer. For more information on how to access the „Club D3“ website please refer to section 6.4. Important: Make sure to install the software using an account which has administrator rights. SeitzRoundshot-4.0-windows-installer.exe Double click the icon.
2.2 Step 2: Get the computer ready 2.2.2 With all other computers (continued) Deactivate User Account Control for Windows VISTA or Windows 7 Windows VISTA and 7 have an additional security layer built in which prompts the user before execution of an application. To run the Seitz Roundshot D3 software this additional security layer needs to be turned off.
2.2 Step 2: Get the computer ready (continued) 2.2.2 With all other computers (continued) Start the Seitz D3 software by double-clicking the shortcut on the desktop: The software opens directly in the “Shoot” menu: Shoot menu Parameter menu The “Shoot” menu is used for operating the camera, image taking, displaying previews, and saving. It also allows quick access to most frequent image capture parameters such as lens (favourite lens list), exposure time, white balancing mode or ISO/ASA.
2.2 Step 2: Get the computer ready (continued) Press the „power on“ button on the camera to start the camera connection process. The network connection icon shows the ongoing process. A network pop-up confirms that the connection is established. The green LED (previously continuous green) now starts to blink. The connection is confirmed in the D3 software by the „Camera ready“ message which appears in the lower right hand corner of the software.
2.2 Step 2: Get the computer ready (continued) If the camera cannot be detected, open the network properties and check the settings. It is important that the network uses an IP in the same range (but not identical) as the IP of the camera (digital scan back) and that both are located in the same subnet: Open network connections of your computer. Open LAN connection. Choose „internet protocol TCP/IP“ and „properties“. Choose „fixed IP“ and enter the following IP address: 10.0.0.68 Subnet mask: 255.0.0.
2.2 Step 2: Get the computer ready (continued) The Roundshot D3 is now ready for image taking. Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
2.3 Step 3: Select shoot settings The next step consists in defining the parameters for image taking. Here is an example of possible settings for a first image: Select the desired shoot parameters: lens, exposure time, focusing distance, angle, TDI stages and ISO/ASA. If the desired lens is not in the list press the parameter button and select the values in the “Parameter/lens” menu. For more detailed information on image parameters and software functions please consult section 3.2 “Parameter menu”.
2.4 Step 4: Adjust your settings Adjust the settings. For example, change the image angle, the exposure speed or the sensitivity of image capture (TDI Stages, ISO/ASA). Fine control the exposure time using the exposure correction slider. It is also possible to change the white balancing mode from automatic to presets or manual modes . Create another scan. Focus with the focusing assistant, don‘t forget to adjust the distance setting and the rotation point on the optical bench (b-value).
3. Seitz Roundshot D3 Capture Software 3.1 Shoot menu The „Shoot “ menu allows to operate the camera (position of camera head, start and stop, focus, rescan), zoom into the preview, apply white balancing to the image and save the panorama. Press the „Start“ button to start the image taking process: The preview shows the image as it is built up by the scan.
The „Shoot“ menu is controlled using the following buttons and graphical elements: Start Progress bar Stop GPS status symbol Resume after pause Camera connection tool Focusing Assistant Camera connection displayed on „mouse over“ Zoom Fit on screen Battery status White balancing pipette Image histogram Rotate camera right Scan info (max shift distance, capture time, file format, file size, image pixel size) Rotate camera left Save button (not yet saved) Save button (already saved) Profile Loa
Once the scan and preview are complete, additional post-processing steps can be performed on the image such as: • White balance (automatic, choose in picture or presets) • Histogram stretching (if active in parameter menu) • Black adjust (for longer exposures when a black value interpolation is required) The ongoing rendering process is shown on the lower right corner of the window.
3.1.1 Shoot settings The „Shoot Settings“ list allows to select and modify those parameters which are most often used during image taking: Lens: select the correct lens from the lens list. This list contains the “favourite lenses”. If a lens is not available, open the lens tab in the parameter menu to access a full lens list. You can also create your own lens if necessary (refer to section 3.2.3) Format: defines the image angle.
3.1.1 Shoot settings (continued) Exposure: select the image exposure mode. Several automatic modes are available in addition to fixed exposure speeds: • Automatic (spot): the sensor reads the light at the current position (or at a defined measure angle). This “spot” reading is used for the entire scan.
3.1.1 Shoot settings (continued) TDI: select the TDI level. A higher TDI means that a larger surface of the sensor is used for the scan. More pixels will be exposed simultaneously with higher TDI, making the entire scan process faster. Using higher TDI can be an advantage when working under low-light conditions (indoor). ISO/ASA: select the ISO/ASA level to be used. Increasing the ISO level will increase the sensor sensitivity but also noise level.
3.1.2 Focusing Assistant Press the button „Focusing Assistant“ and the focusing cross appears: Place the focusing cross on the spot where the camera should focus. The „Focus“ window shows the contrast metering (orange surface) for the selected focusing spot. Adjust the focusing on the lens until the contrast metering shows the highest possible value. Close the „Focusing Assistant“ window to stop the focussing assistant tool.
3.1.3 Zoom Press the button „Zoom“ and the zoom rectangle appears: Place the rectangle on the area to magnify. The zoom window opens showing a 100% magnification* of the selected area. Other zoom levels can be selected in „Parameter menu / custom tab”. 100% is the default zoom factor Press anywhere on the image to close the „Zoom“ window. 3.1.
3.1.5 White balancing pipette Press the button „White balancing pipette“ and the pipette cursor appears on the image: Click on a neutral grey area of the image. Standard grey cards can be included in the image to select a perfect white balance. Please note that using the white balancing pipette will change the white balancing mode. Do not use this tool when selecting the automatic or preset modes. Press the button „White balancing pipette“ again to close the “choose in picture” white balancing mode. 3.1.
3.1.8 Histogram The „Histogram“ is displayed with the image and shows the distribution of light from the very dark to the very light parts (in DNs) of the image. The „Histogram“ is an important tool to determine the quality of the exposure. When the image is perfectly exposed, the histogram shows an evenly distributed light frequency with no cropping of light at the borders like pictured above. When the image is underexposed, the histogram values are situated on the left of the graph, i.e.
3.1.9 Start / Stop When no image taking, image optimisation or saving process is ongoing, the „Start“ button is active. Press it to start a new scan. When an image taking, image optimisation or saving process is ongoing, the „Stop“ button is active. Press it to stop the ongoing process. When the option „pause after prescan“ is active, the camera stops after making a prescan and the button „resume after pause“ is active. Press it to start the image scan with the exposure time computed by the prescan. 3.1.
3.2 Parameter menu to navigate to the “Parameter” menu. Press The „Parameter“ menu allows to set all parameters for image taking, processing and storage. It is structured in nine tabs as described below: Colour Press Save Lens Camera Param. External Device Scheduler HDR Custom Info www.roundshot.ch page 34 again to close the “Parameter” menu. Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.
3.2.1 Colour Press the „Colour“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „Colour“ tab: All settings in this tab are applied on the raw image when it is converted into RGB only (for image preview and when saving the image as .tiff or .jpg). When saving a panorama as a raw image, only the white balancing values are saved with the .dng file, all other “Colour” and “Optimisation” options are not saved. The tab contains the following options: Saturation: define the saturation level of the image.
3.2.2 Save Press the „Save“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „Save“ tab: This tab contains the following options: Format: sets the output file format. DNG, JPEG or TIFF Bit depth: defines the colour bit depth for TIFF files Compression: sets the level and type of compression of the output file Resolution: defines the final resolution of the image. DNG format is only compatible with 1x1 and 3x3 resolutions Fast binning mode: allows faster image data transfer from camera to PC.
3.2.2 Save (continued) 3.1.8 File typethe (continued) Saving image as a DNG file has the advantage of significantly smaller file sizes (33% of TIFF). Also, making the demosaicing (colour conversion into RGB) and optimisations as a second step is beneficial as the original image data is left unchanged and can always be accessed later. Camera raw (latest version) and Lightroom 2.0 can convert the Roundshot D3 panorama if the image has less than 65‘000 horizontal pixels.
3.2.3 Lens Press the „Lens“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „Lens“ tab: The lens tab contains the database of all lenses that can be used with the camera. It is possible to add or remove a lens from the favourite lens list or edit properties.
3.2.3 Lens Every lens is defined by a set of parameters described below: Name: defines the name of the lens. Both the lens list and the favourite lens list will be updated with the new name when clicking outside the field Effective focal length: defines the effective focal length at infinity as given in the technical data sheet of the lens manufacturer. Defining the correct effective focal length at infinity is very important for optimum sharpness (see also chapter 4.1.1.
3.2.3 Lens A large variety of lenses are calibrated at the factory, i.e. their rotation points (b-value) are determined for optimum sharpness. These lenses are included in the factory lens list. The rotation point of the lens defines the position of the camera head for which the best sharpness is achieved. The optical bench of the camera allows sliding the camera head forward or backward to place it in its optimum rotation point.
3.2.4 Camera parameters Press the „Camera parameter“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „Camera parameters“ tab: The settings in this tab affect the camera rotation, the vertical image format and the light metering. Any change will be applied starting from the next scan. The tab contains the following options: Return to start: force the camera to return to start from the same path as image scan.
3.2.4 Camera parameters (continued) Blending 360°: activates automatic blending of beginning and end of a 360° panorama. Enter the desired overlap in degrees. For example, when entering “40” the camera will capture a 400° panorama. The output will be a 360° panorama. Light frequency correction: Compensates for indoor light frequencies (50Hz for Europe/ 60Hz for US).
3.2.5 External device Press the „External device“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „External device“ tab: This menu controls the connection of the software to any external device including the camera. The external devices that can be connected to the camera are GPS and compass.
3.2.5 External device (continued) GPS com port: select the communication port used by the external GPS device. When an active GPS is connected, the GPS location is written automatically in the image metadata.
3.2.6 Scheduler Press the „Scheduler“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „Scheduler“ tab: This menu allows to program automatic image-taking with predefined parameters. For example, the “Scheduler” can be used to create a time-lapse over a day. The tab contains the following options: Scheduler settings: Select the start type for scheduler to use (manual/automatic). By pressing “start” the Scheduler can be started. Please refer to section 4.12 for a more detailed explanation on the scheduler.
3.2.7 HDR Press the „HDR“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „HDR“ tab: This menu is specific for HDR photography, it allows the automatic capture of bracketed images with defined aperture steps. It is also possible here to merge dng images into 32bit EXR files using the HDR mixer. Exposure bracketing: defines the bracketing parameters to generate the image sequence: • Number of images: defines the number of images in the sequence.
3.2.7 HDR (continued) HDR mixer: this function merges differently exposed images of the same scene into a single 32bit EXR file. The input files must be in DNG format. Press “Browse” and select a set of differently exposed images of the same scene. All the parameters necessary for generating the HDR file are stored in the image metadata (except for aperture - see hint below). Click “Generate”. The mixing of images into the 32-bit HDR file takes a few minutes, depending on image size and number of images.
3.2.8 Custom Press the „Custom“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „Custom“ tab: This menu allows to select the interface preferences, to acquire photographer data, and to edit the distance and format lists. The tab contains the following options: Language: select the interface language. The available languages are: • English • Deutsch • Français • Italiano • Español • Simplified Chinese • Standard Japanese Theme: select the interface skin by changing the theme.
3.2.9 Info Press the „Info“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „Info“ tab: This menu allows to see the versions of capture software and camera firmware. By opening the service menu field it is also possible to change advanced settings as defined below.
4. Tips & Resources (How To . . .) Contrary to traditional digital cameras, the Roundshot D3 does not acquire the image by a „oneshot“ exposure. The image is created by a fast TDI scan. The techniques involved for this technology are different from traditional digital photography. Setting the image parameters correctly will have a visible impact on image quality. This is why we have summarised the most important tips & resources in this section.
4.1 … set the b-value (camera head position) For each position only one scale can be used to set the b-value: • When using position A: read the scale from the front side of the camera body where the mark A is printed. (image left) • When using position B: read the scale at the back side of the camera body where the mark B is printed. (image right) A A position B B position 4.
4.2 … obtain the best sharpness (continued) Lens settings (focus, aperture) Focus the lens manually and with the Focusing Assistant Set the approximate distance on the lens first and then use the Focusing Assistant to fine-tune sharpness. Repeat this process once all other sharpness enhancements (lens data, rotation point, distance setting, exposure: TDI Stages) are complete.
4.2 … obtain the best sharpness (continued) Rotation point Set the exact rotation point (b-value) on the optical bench When confirming the lens data or distance setting the software indicates the new rotation point (b-value) as follows (example): Please refer to previous section 4.1 to see how to set the correct b-value on the camera. Small deviations can make a noticeable difference in sharpness.
4.2 … obtain the best sharpness (continued) How to determine the effective focal length and rotation point empirically Many medium format lenses are calibrated at the factory and their effective focal length and rotation points are programmed in the Seitz Roundshot D3 software. For lenses that are not in the software or in the lens lists it is also possible to determine the effective focal length empirically.
4.2 … obtain the best sharpness (continued) Step 3: Complete a series of test images with TDI Stages = 1x, each time increasing the effective focal length in the software. The Seitz Roundshot D3 software will automatically adjust the image length (amount of pixels horizontally). 1m 1m 1m 1m f=28.0 f=28.0 1m 1m 1m f=28.1 f=28.1 1m f=28.2 f=28.2 f=29.0 … F=29.0 Step 4: Open the test images in an image processing software.
4.3 … control the exposure The exposure is influenced by four factors: • TDI Stages • ISO/ASA • Exposure speed • Aperture 4.3.1 Using TDI Stages to control the exposure Simultaneous exposure of the sensor‘s surface with simultaneous read-out (TDI) Instead of exposing just one vertical line, the Seitz D3 Digital Scan Back exposes various vertical lines at the same time which are read out continuously with TDI technology. In other words, a surface – rather than just a line – is exposed.
4.3 … control the exposure (continued) 4.3.3 Using the exposure speed to control the exposure Contrary to „one-shot“ photography, where the exposure is defined by the time between opening and closing of the shutter, the Seitz D3 Digital Scan Back creates the exposure by rotation*. The read-out of data (pixels) is continuous. Hence, the exposure is defined by the time the area of the sensor is exposed for one point in space.
4.3 … control the exposure (continued) 4.3.3 Using the exposure speed to control the exposure The minimum exposure speed is dependent on TDI Stages: TDI Stages Minimum exposure speed (seconds) 1x 2.5x 5x 10x 20x 0.0005 0.0013 0.0025 0.0050 0.0100 1/ 1/ 1/ 1/ 1/ 2'000 800 400 200 100 In certain situations full sensitivity – so full TDI Stages – are required and the minimum exposure speed is less relevant.
4.3 … control the exposure (continued) 4.3.5 Some examples In certain situations full sensitivity – so full TDI Stages – are required and a fast exposure speed is less relevant. In other situations, for example in action photography (sports or moving landscapes), it is important to work with a faster exposure speed which in turn requires to reduce TDI Stages. Here are some examples: Moving landscapes TDI Stages: 10x Exposure: 1/200 ISO/ASA: 100 f=11, 120° Lens: 80mm Schneider Apo Dig L Time for scan: 1.
4.3 … control the exposure (continued) 4.3.5 Some examples (continued) Sports TDI Stages: 20x Exposure: 1/100 ISO/ASA: 200 f=11, 240° (300°) Lens: 80mm Schneider Apo Digitar Time for scan: 4 s Image: Urs Krebs The purpose of this assignment was to freeze the action of the two athletes and at the same time bring out sharpness in the background (spectators and judges). A difficult task given the challenging light conditions (indoors, daylight mixed with fluorescent).
4.3 … control the exposure (continued) 4.3.5 Some examples (continued) Group photography and portraits TDI Stages: 5x Exposure: 1/60 ISO/ASA: 100 f=8, 80° Lens: 80mm Mamiya Sekor C Time for scan: 2.5s Image: Urs Krebs To avoid motion blur of the subject, a medium to high exposure speed is required for group photography and portraits. This is achieved by reducing TDI Stages to about 5x. At the same time this limits the sensitivity, leaving the background intentionally unsharp.
4.4 … use variation with manual exposure The “variation with manual exposure” tool allows to manually define an exposure correction curve based on image content. This tool is very useful in difficult light conditions, especially for indoor/outdoor group photography. Step 1: Activate the option “variation with manual exposure” in the camera parameters tab Step 2: Select the desired “variation parameter”. A large variation parameter value is used for sharp light changes.
4.4 … use variation with manual exposure (continued) Step 4: The exposure correction curve is designed according to the image content. Add as many intermediate point as necessary by just clicking on the corresponding location on the curve.
4.5 … select the image format In rotational 360° panoramic photography the image format is defined by three factors: • the image height (sensor resolution in pixels vertically) • the image length (degrees of rotation horizontally) • the effective focal length of the lens used The image height for the Seitz D3 Digital Scan Back is 7‘500 pixels. This vertical resolution does not change regardless the lens used*.
4.5 … select the image format (continued) We can also illustrate this graphically: 62‘832 px f = 80 The larger the focal length, the longer the resulting panorama. At a vertical resolution of 7,500 pixels the panorama becomes flatter and flatter when increasing the focal length.
4.6 … compute the capture time Capture time is the amount of time required to complete the scan for a given image format and capture speed (set by the exposure speed). It is calculated by multiplying the read-out speed per pixel by the number of horizontal pixels in the image: x Image format = Capture time Capture speed To take the example of the 35mm and 80mm focal lengths again: 35mm: 1.4 seconds 80mm: 3.1 seconds These are minimum capture times (under daylight lighting conditions). 4.
4.8 … shift The digital scan back of the Roundshot D3 can be shifted up or down by +/- 25mm.
4.8 … shift (continued) Please note that when shifting the back plate of the camera body up more of the lower part and when down more of the upper part of the image will be visible. As the digital back and not the lens is shifted the two files can be merged easily and without any distortion (for example in Photoshop). The precondition for shift is that the image circle of the lens is sufficient and that optional lens shades are removed. In general: the longer the focal length, the bigger the image circle.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas This section explains how to use calibrated equipment for spherical panoramas as well as blending the beginning and end of a 360° panorama manually. Please note that for software versions 3.2 and higher, the blending of the 360° panorama can also be done automatically at image capture. The Roundshot D3 equipped with a calibrated fisheye lens allows to create a spherical 180° x 360° panorama by a single scan.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) Currently there are three fisheye lenses which are suitable for spherical QTVR panoramas and which can be calibrated at the Seitz factory for this purpose: With Seitz D3 digital scan back Image circle Vertical resolution at f=11 (and focusing at (pixels) Resolution after calibration (pixels) Approximate field of view 8mm Sigma fisheye f/3.5 22mm 2,750 3,063 x 6,126 180° x 360° 16mm Nikkor fisheye f/2.8 43mm 5,400 6.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) To obtain the best possible results a number of software and hardware adjustments are required. 4.9.1 Software adjustments Load the lens calibration file into your Seitz Roundshot D3 software. Please note that you will need to reload your lens-specific calibration file if you overwrite your program folder (ie through software update) or when installing the software on another computer.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) 4.9.1 Software adjustments (continued) For best sharpness results select a TDI Stage of 1x or 2.5x. It is possible to use higher TDI Stages, however, for scenes which require a large depth of field the sharpness at the top and bottom will not be optimal. The sharpness in the centre of the image will be the same for all TDI Stages. The image sensor is centred in the camera for TDI Stages 1x. Choosing the best TDI Stages depends also on the scene.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) 4.9.2 Hardware adjustments Mamiya 24mm - 2meters Mamiya 24mm - 7meters Choose the nodal bench blocker according to the desired focusing distance (2m, 7m) and fix it to the nodal bench to fix the position of the camera body using a screw driver or by hand.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) 4.9.2 Hardware adjustments (continued) Attach the lens to the Roundshot D3 camera body and lock it firmly by closing the two lens brackets. Set the aperture and the focusing distance on the lens. The focusing distance needs to correspond with the nodal bench blocker. For the 24mm Mamiya 645 fisheye lens there are two click-stops available on the lens: 2m and 7m.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) 4.9.3 Post production on spherical QTVR panoramas Raw conversion Please note that the lens-specific mapping function and image correction is only applied in the Seitz Roundshot D3 software. These parameters are saved with the DNG file metadata and are then reloaded when converting the raw file into RGB in the Seitz Roundshot D3 software or the Seitz raw converter. For more information on post production please refer to chapter 5 “Post production”.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) 4.9.3 Post production on spherical QTVR panoramas Blending of 360° QTVR panoramas (continued) As a result, the panorama has an additional white background to the left: 3. Prepare the blending area On the right part of the image select an area including more than the part above 360° (>40° in this example). Cut the selection and paste it on the left of the image. selection cut paste Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) 4.9.3 Post production on spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) Blending of 360° QTVR panoramas (continued) 4. Blend the layers Select layer 1, set its opacity to 50% and add a layer mask. Using the left arrow on the keyboard, move layer 1 until it matches perfectly the background image. Zoom to more than 100% to check. Select the layer mask and activate the gradient tool with the "Foreground to background" preset.
4.9 … create spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) 4.9.3 Post production on spherical QTVR panoramas (continued) Blending of 360° QTVR panoramas (continued) Press the shift key and draw the gradient line from left to right with the gradient tool on the area where the 2 layers are overlapping. Finally set the opacity of the layer 1 to 100%: The exposure at the beginning and end of the panorama is now perfectly equal: 5.
4.10 … create turntable scans This section explains how to use the Roundshot D3 camera in turntable mode. Please note that it is necessary to have the turntable bench together with the camera to be consistent with the capture software parameters and to obtain optimal image quality. Different types of macro tubes are available. These macro tubes are used to obtain the desired zoom ratio and to capture more or less resolution and detail of the object surface.
4.10 … create turntable scans (continued) 4.10.1 Hardware set-up The turntable hardware set-up is slightly different from using a regular Roundshot D3. the motor is attached on one side of the bench and the camera body on the other. Connect the power cable from the power socket on the digital back to the socket for external power cable on the static part of the motor as shown below. This way the cable will not be twisted when scanning the objects.
4.10 … create turntable scans (continued) 4.10.
4.10 … create turntable scans (continued) 4.10.2 Software adjustments Press to navigate to the “Parameter” menu. Open „Camera parameters“ tab. Choose “Turntable” as mode of operation. This mode is only visible if a Roundshot D3 camera is already connected to the software. If the turntable mode is not in the list, please make sure the connection to the Roundshot D3 camera is established. Once the turntable mode is active, a new window is displayed on the software.
4.10 … create turntable scans (continued) 4.10.2 Software adjustments (continued) • Macro tubes: defines the number and the size of macro tubes to be used. In this example one 16mm and two 52mm tubes should be attached to the lens to obtain the desired zoom ratio. • Focusing distance: defines the focusing distance that needs to be set on the lens. Please note that the distance setting in “shoot settings” is now removed.
4.11 … use a USB GPS device Press to navigate to the “Parameter” menu. Open „External device“ tab. The comport box contains a list of all activated com port on your computer When no GPS device is connected, the „Com port list“ window remains empty. Install the USB driver for your GPS device (for example: GlobalSat BU-353) on your computer first. Then connect it via the USB port. The detection of the GPS device may take 3-4 minutes.
4.11 … use a USB GPS device (continued) When the GPS device is connected to the computer and the satellite signal is received, a GPS information tag is displayed next to the green GPS status symbol. Example: GPS data for Lustdorf / Switzerland Once the GPS device is connected it automatically feeds the latitude and longitude of the current camera position into the software. This data is then written to the metadata / EXIF when saving a new image.
4.12 … use a compass Press to navigate to the “Parameter” menu. Open „External device“ tab. Click on the “Compass on” check box to activate the connected compass. Several options related to compass are displayed: Start compass calibration: press on this button to allow the compass to be calibrated on the first use. The camera will rotate 360° and the compass output will be synchronized with the motor rotation. This function needs to be used only once. A calibration status popup will be displayed.
4.13 … program the scheduler The scheduler is often used to create a time-lapse over a defined period with the Roundshot D3. Before programming the scheduler, make sure to create one or more profiles as presented in section 3.1.7. with the image parameters to be used for the time-lapse. In the “Parameter” menu.
4.13 … program the scheduler (continued) It is possible to create as many jobs as necessary if different parameters are to be used. For example it is possible to create 2 sequences one in full resolution and one in 2x2 resolution. In this example the start time of the second job is shifted by 5 minutes to avoid job conflicts.
4.13 … program the scheduler (continued) For all types of jobs, the start/end times can be generated automatically according to the GPS location of the camera. Enter the local GPS coordinates and select sunrise/sunset for example. The effective start/end times will change automatically according to the location throughout the season. This is useful to create projects over a longer time frame (for example a year). Once the Jobs are programmed correctly, it is necessary to start the scheduler.
4.14 … read + edit metadata Metadata or EXIF are camera and image parameters which are embedded in the image. They help in the post-processing of the files and assist the photographer in retrieving essential image information later in the process (for example, lens, exposure speed, ISO/ASA). The metadata can be loaded in the following software: • Seitz Raw Converter • PhotoMe • Adobe Bridge + camera raw • Adobe Lightroom • Adobe Photoshop 4.14.
4.14 … read + edit metadata 4.14.2 PhotoMe PhotoMe is a dedicated software to display, analyse and edit metadata. Load a DNG, TIFF or JPG file into the software to display image and camera data. It is also possible to edit most Metadata information, especially to add the lens aperture information. This is useful for HDR set of images generated by changing lens aperture manually. Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
4.14 … read + edit metadata (continued) 4.14.3 Adobe Bridge + camera raw Adobe Bridge displays all image files within a folder as thumbnails and is a seemless addition to post-processing software (camera raw). Click on the thumbnail image of the image file to display the metadata (file properties, camera data, settings for camera raw, etc.): When double-clicking an image it is opened in camera raw. Camera raw shows only metadata for exposure speed, ISO/ASA and focal length.
4.14 … read + edit metadata (continued) 4.14.4 Adobe Lightroom Contrary to camera raw where a full list of metadata is displayed in Bridge, Lightroom has all metadata integrated. Click on „Metadata“ to display the full list: For a full list of metadata please refer to PhotoMe or Adobe Bridge. Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
4.14 … read + edit metadata (continued) 4.14.5 Photoshop In Photoshop the metadata can be accessed by selecting “File/File Info” or by pressing ALT+CTRL+SHIFT+I: For a full list of metadata please refer to PhotoMe or Adobe Bridge. Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
5. Workflow 5.1 Introduction The Roundshot D3 is a very versatile camera system and can be used for a large variety of different applications. For each of these applications different end products are created, which in turn influences the choice of workflow. Therefore we recommend thinking through the ideal workflow before starting to use the camera in the field.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter Focus on the following points to obtain the highest possible image quality: • Framing: it is recommended to capture an image containing slightly more angle than necessary to have higher flexibility in framing • Exposure: make sure to obtain a perfect histogram. This ensures that the exposure is precise and no additional postprocessing (and loss of quality) is required.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) The Seitz raw converter gives best results for the raw conversion. We therefore recommend to convert the dng raw file in the Seitz raw converter (including white balance, tone mapping, colour noise removal). As a next step open the image in Adobe Photoshop for additional retouching (for example for sharpening).
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) The Seitz Raw converter is divided into 4 fields for an optimised usability and image conversion workflow: Tool bar: located on the top of the window, the tool bar is used for direct image editing and image navigation Thumbnail: Located on the bottom part of the window, the thumbnail field displays the thumbnails of all DNG images located in the current folder. It is useful for image selection and loading.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) Browsing After Opening the Seitz raw conversion software the first step is to browse and open the desired file: Open the correct folder: use the browsing tree on the right side of the window to open the folder containing the dng images. Image selection: the thumbnails of all the dng images of the folder will be displayed. By clicking one time on every image, the corresponding metadata are displayed on the bottom right field.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) Image navigation and basic editing Using the “Tool bar” it is possible to navigate in the image and to apply some basic editing commands: Zoom in/out: Also possible with “X + mouse click” for zoom in or “C + mouse click” for zoom out Navigation hand: Slides the image in the viewer.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) Colour The Colour adjustment is the first step in the raw conversion workflow. It contains all the basic colour adjustment parameters and some basic tone mapping tools: Basic: white balance Select one of the white balancing options in the list. It is recommended to use either “choose in picture” and point on a grey area in the image, or “Automatic”. This will give a starting point for the subsequent fine tuning of colours.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) Tone mapping After colour adjustments the tone mapping tab offers some advanced tone mapping tools: RGB tone mapping With RGB tone mapping it is possible to apply a global tone mapping on the image without affecting the colour settings. It is recommended to use first one of the preset tone mapping curves provided. These tone mapping curves are S-shaped and allow to control the global image contrast.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) Details enhancement After Image global adjustments (colour, tone, histogram...) the details enhancement tab offers some tools to remove image artefacts or to increase image quality.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) Details enhancement Colour denoising example For all the details enhancement tools it is strongly recommended to use the lowest presets (weak) for best results. When using high presets new artefacts might appear: heavy denoising can generate blurred images, strong sharpening may generate noise and high colour noise removal levels may desaturate colours.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) Save Once the image is optimised and all image adjustment parameters are set, the next step is to export the image in Tiff or JPEG formats. Open the “Save tab” and select the image export parameters as described below: File format: this menu contains all raw conversion parameters: • Format: select between Tiff for highest image quality or JPEG for smaller file size • Depth: when selecting Tiff it is possible to choose between 16bit or 8bit colour depth.
5.2 RAW workflow: Seitz raw converter (continued) Batch process The “Batch process tab” allows setting up batch processing, i.e. applying raw conversion to several images one after the other using profiles. It is possible to add files to the waiting list from the Save tab or add the files directly using saved profiles: Job list: the job list contains all the files waiting to be processed and their corresponding profiles. The files sent to this list via the saving tab use a custom profile.
5.3 RGB workflow With the RGB workflow image capture and RGB conversion are done in one step in the Seitz Roundshot D3 capture software. This workflow is ideal for applications where speed and limited post production are important. 5.3.
5.3 RGB workflow (continued) 5.3.2 Reduced resolution RGB workflow (fast RGB workflow) For projects which require a fast image taking/processing/saving rhythm at reduced resolution the fast RGB workflow is ideal.
5.4 HDR workflow 5.4.1 HDR overview The graph below contains an overview of the different possible HDR techniques. However, only the multiple HDR solution - mixing differently exposed images - can lead to a 32bit HDR file with extreme dynamic range.
5.4 HDR workflow 5.4.2 Image capture There are two possible workflows: Quality: this workflow is designed for the highest image quality possible. From an image to the other only the exposure time is changed to adjust the image brightness. Resolution 1x1 3x3 Quality Exp Exp Speed TDI/Exp TDI/Exp “Quality” “Speed” Bracketing 1 2 3 1 2 3 Speed: This workflow is designed to minimise the overall time for capturing the images. It is possible to change exposure time and TDI from image to image.
5.4 HDR workflow (continued) 5.4.2 Image capture (continued) Step 1: Take a test image to determine exposure Example: Exp1=1/800s Exp2=1/100 Exp3=1/13s Either take an image with medium exposure and optimise the histogram or create a fast exposure and reduce the light source (sun) to the minimum. This will determine the base for bracketing.
5.4 HDR workflow (continued) 5.4.
5.4 HDR workflow (continued) 5.4.2 Image capture (continued) Step 4: Program HDR Image sequence Open the HDR menu and set the desired number of images and HDR steps. In this example we take 3 images with each time 3 f-stops difference. Define the mean exposure time and standard TDI.
5.4 HDR workflow (continued) 5.4.3 32bit HDR generation: image mixing Photomatix This software is recommended for 32bit EXR generation. It is able to read 3x3 dng files or unlimited size tiffs.
5.4 HDR workflow (continued) 5.4.3 32bit HDR generation: image mixing (continued) Seitz Roundshot software Press the „HDR“ button in the „Parameter“ menu to activate the „HDR“ tab: This menu allows to merge differently exposed images of the same scene into a single 32bit EXR file. The input files must be in DNG format. Press “Browse” and select a set of differently exposed images of the same scene. All the parameters necessary for the HDR generation are stored in the image metadata (except for aperture.
5.5 Additional post production in Photoshop Colour noise For details in the image that contain high frequency areas it is possible that colour artefacts occur. These artefacts are created because the resolution (frequency response) of the lens is higher than that of the digital scan back or when photographing fine structures (moiré). For example, Schneider and Rodenstock medium format lenses often have a resolution (in line pairs per mm) which is higher than that of the D3 sensor.
5.5 Additional post production in Photoshop (continued) Colour noise Colour artefacts (false colours/rainbow) on fine structures or high frequency areas. Select medium parameters (strength 6, reduce colour noise. 60%) to avoid “halo effect” / unsharpness. As this filter requires significant calculations work with a 64-bit machine/software or on selected areas of the image only. Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
5.5 Additional post production in Photoshop (continued) Sharpening When all filtering, tone-mapping and histogram adjustments are done it may be beneficial to sharpen the image. A sharpening algorithm which works well is „Smart Sharpen“: Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
6. Maintenance 6.1 Power supply: AC power adaptor and battery charger The Roundshot D3 camera can be operated either with the battery or by connecting the camera to a permanent power supply. Battery Power supply: interchangeable Socket for external power cable Socket for battery charger Important: make sure that the power supply is not plugged into the battery socket as a malfunction may occur. A single charge of the NiMh 12V 4.5A battery usually last for 5-6 hours of operation.
6.2 Reset of Seitz D3 digital scan back In case of a malfunction the Seitz D3 digital scan back can be reset. This may be required if the software (flash file) within the Seitz D3 digital scan back is no longer working properly. It is done in the following way: Push with a pen or with a screwdriver into the reset pin on the back side of the Seitz D3 digital scan back. Keep it pressed for a few seconds. This initiates a reset of the software, i.e. the flash file is reset to the original factory file.
6.3 Camera maintenance The Roundshot D3 contains high-tech electronic components.
6.3 Camera maintenance (continued) Digital sensor and optics Make sure that no dust accumulates on the digital sensor and that the lenses remain dust and scratch free. The outside protection glass (IR cut filter) can be cleaned using some window cleaner and a soft cotton swab: Computer Handle the tablet PC with care. Wipe the screen from time to time with a wet microfibre cleaning cloth.
6.4 „Club D3“ 6.4.1 International warranty & product registration Your Roundshot D3 camera is covered by the international 2-year Seitz warranty. The warranty is linked to the serial number of the camera directly and is stored in our database. If there is any malfunction or defect of the equipment we will repair the camera at no cost. The warranty extends to technical defaults that are not caused by inproper use, damage by transportation or other defaults not related to the manufacturing of the camera.
6.4 „Club D3 “ (continued) 6.4.2 Software & firmware updates Sometimes copying programs or flash files on USB sticks can damage them. Therefore we recommend downloading the software directly to your computer from our website. The Seitz Roundshot D3 software runs on Windows PCs (XP, VISTA, 7) as well as on Mac computers (OS 10.5 and 10.6) with 32-bit or 64-bit Intel processors.
6.4 „Club D3 “ (continued) 6.4.2 Software & firmware updates (continued) In the “Club D3” your registered products are displayed and the latest instruction manuals are available for download. In “Software Downloads” both the most up-to-date version of the Seitz raw converter software and the Seitz Roundshot D3 capture software are available for download. Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
6.5 Return of equipment / recycling Your Roundshot product and the accessories are produced from highest quality materials and parts and will provide you continued pleasure. Should you nevertheless want to dispose of your Roundshot equipment one day, it should not be placed in normal waste. The correct disposal of your old equipment is a contribution to preventing possible negative causes for the environment.
7. Technical data Technical changes reserved Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
7. Technical data (continued) Technical changes reserved Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
Appendix 1: lens (focal length) and image angle combinations for jpg files The maximum amount of horizontal pixels is limited to 65‘500 for jpg images.
Appendix 2: lens lists Please note that Schneider and Rodenstock Linos lenses are mounted on Alpa lens boards and come with a helical mount. For these lenses no separate lens mount is required (they are attached directly to the camera body). Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
Appendix 2: lens lists Please note that Schneider and Rodenstock Linos lenses are mounted on Alpa lens boards and come with a helical mount. For these lenses no separate lens mount is required (they are attached directly to the camera body). Mamiya 645 focal length lens type 24mm 35mm 45mm 50mm 50mm 55mm 80mm 80mm 80mm 80mm 120mm 150mm 150mm 200mm 210mm min.
Appendix 2: lens lists Zeiss Hasselblad CFi/CFE focal length lens type 38mm 30mm 40mm 40mm 50mm 60mm 80mm 100mm 120mm 120mm 150mm 180mm 250mm 250mm 350mm min. aperture Biogon CFi F-Distagon CFi Distagon CFE Distagon IF CFE Distagon CFi Distagon CFi Planar CFE Planar CFi Makro Planar CFE Makro Planar CFi Sonnar CFi Sonnar CFE Sonnar CFi Sonnar Superachromat CFE Tele-Superachromat CFE Image angle, ° 4.5 3.5 4.0 4.0 4.0 3.5 2.8 3.5 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 5.6 5.6 5.
Appendix 2: lens lists Zeiss Hasselblad Telephoto Power Pack focal length lens type min. aperture 300mm Tele-Superachromat Tele-Superachromat Image angle, ° 2.8 4.8 503.5mm 11.5 6.8 Image Maximum circle, mm shift, mm 145 170 Effective focal length (∞) h-value 85 110 299.9 503.5 -368.7 -546.8 b-value (∞) -68.8 -43.3 Zeiss Hasselblad C focal length lens type 30mm 38mm 40mm 50mm 60mm 60mm 80mm 100mm 105mm 150mm 250mm 250mm 350mm 500mm min.
Appendix 2: lens lists Zeiss Hasselblad CF focal length lens type 30mm 38mm 40mm 50mm 50mm 60mm 80mm 100mm 105mm 120mm 135mm 150mm 180mm 250mm 350mm 500mm min. aperture F Distagon Biogon Distagon Distagon Distagon (2 Einstellringe) Distagon Planar Planar UV-Sonnar Makro-Planar Makro-Planar Sonnar Sonnar Sonnar Tele-Apotessar Tele-Apotessar Image angle, ° 3.5 4.5 4.0 4.0 4.0 3.5 2.8 3.5 4.3 4.0 5.6 4.0 4.0 5.6 5.6 8.0 89.1 75.9 72.8 60.9 60.2 53.2 40.7 33.4 31.3 28.0 24.8 22.5 19.1 13.8 10.1 6.
Appendix 2: lens lists Zeiss Hasselblad F-FE focal length lens type 50mm 80mm 110mm 150mm 250mm 350mm Distagon Planar Planar Sonnar Tele-Tessar Tele-Tessar min. aperture Image Maximum circle, mm shift, mm Image angle, ° 2.8 2.8 2.0 2.8 4.0 4.0 60.5 41.0 30.4 22.5 14.0 9.8 96 104 106 110 135 145 Effective focal length (∞) h-value 36 44 46 50 75 85 51.7 80.5 110.8 151.3 245.6 349.9 b-value (∞) 61.5 -14.0 -37.4 -81.8 -197.5 -345.5 113.2 66.5 73.4 69.5 48.1 4.
Appendix 2: lens lists Rollei Zeiss focal length lens type 30mm 38mm 40mm 50mm 60mm 60mm 80mm 100mm 105mm 120mm 150mm 150mm 180mm 250mm 250mm 350mm 500mm 500mm min. aperture F-Distagon Biogon Distagon HFT Distagon Biogon Distagon Planar HFT Planar UV-Sonnar Planar HFT PQS Sonnar HFT Sonnar HFT PQS Sonnar Sonnar Superachromat Sonnar Tele-Tessar Tele-Tessar APO-Tele-Tessar Image angle, ° 3.5 4.5 4.0 4.0 5.6 3.5 2.8 3.5 4.3 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 5.6 5.6 5.6 8.0 8.0 89.1 75.9 72.6 60.9 52.5 53.2 40.7 33.4 31.
Impressum Copyright 2013 by Seitz Phototechnik AG Hauptstr. 14 8512 Lustdorf / Switzerland ph: +41 52 369 68 00 email: seitz@roundshot.ch www.roundshot.ch Technical changes reserved May 2013 Instruction Manual Roundshot D3 - version 4.05 – May 2013 - © by Seitz Phototechnik AG / Switzerland www.roundshot.
