Sony has introduced two Cyber-shot digital still cameras that will shoot in 3D, allowing you to get in on the 3D hype that one might think can only achieved by Hollywood studios. The DSC-TX9 ($400) and DSC-WX5 ($300) 12.2 megapixel cameras will start shipping this September, and be available in stores and online at SonyStyle.com.
3D images can be viewed on the camera’s LCD touchscreens using the Sweep Multi Angle option – a new way of viewing 3D images by tilting the camera back and forth and seeing 15 different angles as if moving. We haven’t tested the camera yet but imagine it is much like those 3D film cameras that produced lenticular prints that make the image look as if moving, or morphing from one image to another. The 3D images can ONLY be viewed on the camera’s LCD touchscreen displays — the TX9 has a 3.5-inch 921k resolution LCD display and the WX5 a 2.8-inch display.
3D Panoramas: The new cameras will allow you to create 3D Panoramas, using the “Sweep” feature which creates a high-speed “burst of frames” stitched together in-camera. (The only problem is, 3D compatible HDMI cables and a pair of 3D glasses are required to view the 3D image.)
HD Video: The cameras will also feature full 1920 x 1080 (60i) HD video at up to 17Mbps. MPEG4 capturing will also be available for smaller file sizes at 1440 x1080 30p 12Mbps.
Unfortunately, the HD video on the camera is not 3D. (How cool would that be?) But if you are handy enough you can mount two video cameras (or still cameras that shoot video) on a tripod with the lenses just slightly separated (about the distance of your eyes). Then use a video or photo editing program to compile the two for anaglyph 3D viewing. (You’ll need a pair anaglyph 3D glasses – but these cost about a buck.)
