A Mathematical and Experimental Foundation for Stereoscopic Photography

The system of stereoscopic photography developed by the Motion Picture Research Council, and now generally used in the major Hollywood studios, has been based upon extensive experimental data regarding the processes involved in binocular vision. It is now known that this vision does not give absolute location of points in space, but rather that it is sensitive to small differences in distance and direction. Therefore, it appears logical to use differential rather than integral forms in calculating probable appearances of projected pictures. It is found that this approach removes many of the troublesome restrictions found in suggestions based upon other assumptions. Perspective and apparent depth can be balanced for pictures seen from the better viewing positions in motion-picture theaters. It is also possible to include necessary psychological factors to allow satisfactory photography of close-ups and other special effects. The result is that if certain simple limitations and precautions are observed, it is not difficult to obtain stereoscopic motion pictures which are consistently natural in appearance and easy to view.