Above the clouds - My breathtaking 360-degree equirectangular panorama ADAC Christoph 5
A reportage photographer accompanies the rescue helicopter Christoph 5 from Ludwigshafen.
As a photographer and photo adventurer from Römerberg and Limburgerhof, I felt called to capture the beauty of our planet from a unique perspective. My camera, an SLR, and a special wide-angle lens were my tools to realize this ambitious project. I was determined to create a breathtaking 360-degree equirectangular panorama in the helicopter on the next seat.
Nowadays this is certainly much easier, but 5-10 years ago the technology was not as advanced as it is today.
The challenges that awaited me were not to be underestimated. From high above from a bird's eye view, the view took my breath away. I was overwhelmed by the magnificence of nature and the privilege of being able to capture these moments. Now for everyone, of course.
My camera clicked to capture the perfect moments - when the light bathed the landscape in a golden glow and the clouds moved effortlessly around us. Back on the ground, I had a wealth of individual images that I needed to stitch together into a harmonious whole.
The execution of the project was complex and required a considerable amount of time, characterized by innovative methods and precise implementation. By combining three first-class images through sophisticated image processing algorithms, a seamless 360-degree equirectangular panorama was created that represented the aesthetic qualities of the environment in a technologically advanced format.
The end product, an impressive 360-degree equirectangular panorama.
This photograph is certainly testament to the advanced capabilities of modern photography and the almost limitless possibilities available through the use of cutting edge technology and innovation. Developing this panorama was an educational endeavor that demonstrated the state of the art in the photographic landscape. It showed me that in the world of photography, the only limits are those of your imagination. Looking at the finished work will always be a reminder that I was part of a technologically sophisticated process capable of capturing the beauty of the world in a way that is both technically and artistically exemplary.
I feel a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to capture such moments not only for myself, but also for other people. This task transcends mere technical skill; it combines art and science to create something unique and unforgettable.
Michael Schepers
In photographic practice, especially in the creation of panoramas, the principles of optics and computer science are interwoven. The selection of the correct focal length, the precise alignment of the cameras and the consideration of exposure and colour balance are just as important as the application of algorithms for seam optimization and image fusion.
