360 Camera Accessories 360 Camera Techniques

TECHNIQUE: Hands-free invisible flying 360 camera

hands-free invisible flying camera technique
hands-free invisible flying camera technique

Here is the secret to the hands-free invisible flying 360 camera, which I showed in my recent Theta V video.

In my Theta V video, the opening scene featured what appeared to be an invisible flying or floating 360 camera. Here is a 360-degree frame grab:

To create this effect, you need to use:
– a 360 camera with excellent stitching, such as the Ricoh Theta V;
a slim selfie stick with a 1/4-20 hole or 1/4-20 stud;
this spike.

The selfie stick must be narrow enough that it will be completely within the camera’s lenses so as to be invisible to the camera.  The one I used here is this one.

The spike I got comes in three segments.  I prefer to use two segments between the camera and the selfie stick.  There is a removable male to male 1/4-20 adapter to attach the spike to the base of the selfie stick.

1/4-20 spike for invisible 360 camera technique
1/4-20 spike for invisible 360 camera technique

I found it is easier to use your weight to drive the spike into the ground rather than trying to stab it to the ground.  For best results, choose a spot where the shadow will not be visible.  Here is how it looks like when assembled:

hands-free invisible flying 360 camera
hands-free invisible flying 360 camera

Here it is at the scene:

Hands-free invisible floating 360 camera
Hands-free invisible floating 360 camera

Because the shaft and selfie stick are within the 360 camera’s stitch line, they will provide invisible support to the camera, making it look as if it is flying or floating.  This technique works for both photos and videos, and can be used whether spherical or flat (cropped, e.g. tiny planet)!   Now go and amaze your friends 😀

Meanwhile, here is a YouTube playlist of other invisible camera techniques (click on the upper left corner to select another video):