3D Imagery
Zioss’ 3D photography is based on new technology that uses the latest professional digital SLR cameras/lenses, and uses the fastest computers available now, along with new software, that when combined together there results the capablity to generate 3D images from a series of photographs taken of the desired scene. Only of late have all of the tools become available that allow for smooth production of 3D images (high-end digital cameras, very fast Macs, and 3D photographic-imaging software developed to take full advantage of the camera and computer capabilities).
History of "3D"
“3D” imaging has been around for a long time in fact. However it should be noted that in the past it was usually necessary to “layer” flat images at varying depths in the image composition in order to “simulate” 3D effects once printed on special materials. There was also a rather difficult system using 2 or more film cameras that were used in past to generate photos of the scene from various angles, but there was not really any dedicated software to then handle those photos to generate a seamless 3D image.
3D images were produced from those older systems but they were of limited use due to the complexity of the process. Digital technology has changed that now as the new digital cameras, computers and software have enough power now to process the huge amounts of data/pixels that are necessary in the capture and generation of 3D photos.
How 3D is made?
Printing of 3D requires one very important technique. It is essential to have the print contain "2 separate images" -- one for each eye of the viewer. Lenticular prints accomplish this by having the original photograph or graphics images created to contain the 2 images; and by then having a special lense (lenticular sheet) laminated to the image print (or using methods to direct-print to the lense itself). While this process is obviously more expensive compared to normal printing, the cost is far outweighed by the multiplied impact of 3D images. It is crucial however that only experienced companies be engaged for any 3D work.
Why 3D?
There are many case histories in the industry now that prove that 3D images/prints never fail to provide that "WOW" response from customers. There is nothing else in the commercial realm of the print industry presently that comes close to producing the impact that 3D provides.
What 3D Formats?
Printing techniques for 3D prints are now sufficiently developed and established so that 3D images can be used on a variety of products and applications. For example:
| - magazine & catalog covers and inserts | - packaging & labels |
| - point of purchase posters, window display | - direct mail |
| - collectible cards, prepaid cards, credit cards | - premiums & gifts |
| - stationery items (notebooks, bookmarks, rulers, etc.) | - framed wall art/decor/murals |
| - shelf-talkers | - CD/DVD covers |
| - postcards, greeting/birthday cards, etc. | - calendars |
Market Research
Independent market research has proven that 3D images/photos provide at least 5 times the "attention-grabbing" power compared to normal printed images. Also these 3D images also provide 4 times the "staying power", keeping viewers' attention to your message. Clients will more times than not find that their 3D campaigns are the "best ever" in terms of response/results. There have been many cases where the actual 3D prints used in advertising campaigns have been "stolen" and sold on eBay !