Pixotope, a software platform for end-to-end real-time virtual production solutions, has added “industry-first” zoom capabilities to Pixotope Tracking – Fly Edition (Pixotope Fly), its through-the-lens (TTL) camera-tracking software solution.
This first-of-its-kind solution gives broadcasters and content creators access to zoom capabilities beyond the current limitations of one fixed lens position on drones and other cameras. This enables more dynamic shot composition for augmented reality (AR), extended reality (XR), and virtual studio (VS) workflows with greater simplicity during live broadcast events, whether indoors, outdoors, or in the studio.
This new feature enhances content quality and production efficiency with the ability to zoom in and out of a space without physically having to move the camera closer or farther away.
With Pixotope Fly, broadcasters are given an accessible out-of-the-box tracking solution to incorporate AR graphics indoors, outdoors, or in studio environments with precision and flexibility. Thanks to its advanced computer vision technology, the TTL tracking solution uses visual feature points like geological formations, tree patterns, or architectural details to dynamically anchor the AR graphics and create a virtual point cloud reference system that adapts to changing conditions.
This effectively eliminates the need for tracking hardware, such as physical markers, camera and lens encoders, and the associated costs that come with them. As a result, there is a notable reduction in both complexity and cost, increasing overall efficiency and accessibility for broadcast operations of all sizes while providing creative freedom with a level of accuracy and flexibility that was previously unattainable, according to Pixotope.
Gideon Ferber, Senior Vice-President of Product at Pixotope, said, “The subject of adding zoom capabilities to markerless TTL camera tracking has long been thought to be impossible — until now.
“With the ability to zoom, users experience the creative freedom to capture more dynamic and engaging shots while still enjoying the same streamlined setup and operation that Pixotope is known for.
“And with the introduction of this capability, we’re opening up new creative possibilities and delivering greater operational efficiencies in the process.”