The height of camera : evaluation of the effects of fundamental feature of 360-degree video on user experience

Abstract

The 360-degree video, aka omnidirectional video, can be used to efficiently create immersive experiences and thus has great potential to be utilized in different contexts and situations, such as museums, working grounds or education. However, new technology always comes with new problems and challenges. Until now, there are still not many research studies related to how basic elements of omnidirectional video influence the user experience. In this thesis, one basic but crucial feature of omnidirectional video, the height of the camera, is studied. A user study was conducted, and feedback was gathered to understand how the camera height influences the user experience under both sitting and standing viewing conditions. The results show that the participants felt more immersion and comfortable when the video height seems close to their actual height. The acceptable heights for sitting and standing are different, standing can offer a better viewing and pleasant experience while sitting tends to offer a safer experience. Hopefully, this thesis can offer some useful information for researchers, designers or other people who are interested in related topics, and encourage them to produce better panoramic solutions for future.