Our 360° Video Camera - Innovation

Vision Becomes Reality in Virtual Reality

We started experimenting with virtual reality in 1998. At the time, our primary focus was creating virtual tours using digital cameras and, later, DSLR cameras. From the very beginning, I had a vision of capturing panoramic images and combining them into immersive video experiences. However, as a self-funded entrepreneur, I simply did not have the financial resources to turn that dream into a real product.

In 2012, I was finally able to take a chance on that vision and begin developing my own 360° video camera system.

I connected with Phillip van der Walt, one of the leaders in 3D printing in South Africa, and shared my vision with him. Together, we began designing and developing our own custom framework and configuration for a 360° video camera rig. Our first prototype used the GoPro range of cameras, configured specifically to capture both 360° panoramic photography and immersive 360° video footage.

Below are some photographs of the 360° video camera rigs we developed during the early stages of the project.

3D Printed 360° Video Camera Rig

Our Self-Developed 360° Video Camera

360° Video Camera Rig

Filming with Our 360° Video Camera

Our first 360° video camera rig used GoPro Hero 3 cameras. As the technology evolved, we later switched to a Chinese-manufactured camera system that allowed us to capture footage in 4K resolution.

3D Renders for the 360° Video Camera

Below are some later 3D render concepts created around 2015, based on the original 360° video camera rig we developed.

360° Video Camera Rig Designed for 3D Printing

360° Video Camera 3D Printing Render

3D Render Concept for 3D Printing