The precise role of a stereographer varies depending on the project, but all stereographers work with images that use the three-dimensional (3D) visual effect known as stereoscopic 3D, whether still or in motion. A stereographer can be used in a variety of ways in a 3D project, especially if he or she is part of a team with shared responsibilities. Stereographers who work with still images usually work alone or in small groups, and they may be asked to perfect individual shots. As 3D technologies advance, the stereographer’s job entails staying current with new techniques and, in some cases, inventing new ways to record stereographs.
Stereographers were once photographers who meticulously captured stereographs that were intended to be viewed through special devices known as stereoscopes. Special cameras and careful image composition were required to capture these images. Stereographs are still used in many applications, despite the fact that they are no longer as popular or as awe-inspiring as they were when they were first created.
Working with still images, a stereographer is often mistaken for a photographer. He or she is usually in charge of the image’s entire composition, as well as its development and distribution. While many stereographs still require special equipment to view, others are designed to work without it. These artists may work for large corporations or be completely self-employed.
A stereographer is also frequently found working on 3D films in the film industry. Capturing 3D motion images on its own is a difficult task that frequently necessitates the assistance of a professional, but the additional steps of processing and playing back the images can be equally difficult. A stereographer should be involved in all stages of making a 3D film to point out any issues that may arise due to the film’s design, as some shots are more suited to this method of recording. A large number of stereographers may be involved in the production of a finished film in some cases.
There are also stereographers who specialize in promoting the use of 3D images in movies. Although finished films with dominant visual effects are possible, many people who are interested in this art believe that 3D effects should enhance rather than detract from a film’s content. As a result, a stereographer’s primary role may be to advise directors and cinematographers on which effects will work best in a given film. Because learning this art form can be difficult, some professionals in this field should also work as teachers.