How we create virtual reality images for use on a computer system

When a virtual tour of, for instance, a house is shown on a website the images need to be first created and then manipulated. The subsequent summarises how this can be done (a similar technique/method could be used for different applications):

- take photos with, for instance, a digital camera

- Photos are taken from a single point (reference point)

- Camera is rotated around the room as a number of photos are taken

- Images are "stitched" together using special imaging software

- Photo images are re-configured and re-sized for Internet use

- use hotspots on the web page to allow a user to move around the house (For example from room to room). Integrate plans and maps into the image to allow user to navigate the house.

-  Developments like broadband, large computer memories and compression software have allowed virtual tours to be offered on the Internet or/and CD/DVD files.