Stereo3D Parallax Guides

The Parallax Guides generator is a tool for editors, post-production supervisors and stereographers alike. It is used to measure positive and negative parallax of a select clip or sequence. This is a useful tool to ensure the positive parallax does not exceed the separation percentage limit determined by the final display size and resolution (theatrical, television, monitor, etc…) to ensure a comfortable viewing experience.

Initial Setup

To access the Parallax Guides go to:
Effects Tab → Video Generators → Dashwood Stereo3D Toolbox → Stereo3D Parallax Guides

Once a stereoscopic clip has been created the user is able to drop the Parallax Guides video generator on an empty video track directly above the desired clip or sequence. It is import to change the Stereo 3D Output type in the Geometry plug-in to either, “Superimpose” or “Anaglyph”. This will allow the user to see the two images overlapped and able to examine the separation in conjunction with the Parallax Guides.

The vertical lines of the Parallax Guides represent the average human inter-ocular distance, 65mm. Positive parallax (background separation) that exceeds the guides will cause the audiences’ eyes to diverge, resulting in discomfort.

The user is able to adjust the guides in the Control tab. First by entering the final display screen width (or diagonal measurement) in inches, then entering the Target Display Pixel Width. Alternatively, the user is able to enter a Custom Parallax Percentage. The Guides will change in relation to the input data of the user allowing for fast and effective parallax inspection to ensure quality stereoscopic content.

S3D Output Type

When using the Parallax Guides with stereoscopic images presented as superimposed, anaglyph or difference leave the S3D Output Type to “Default”.

When using the Parallax Guides and viewing the images on a 3D monitor via Side-by-Side signal, set the S3D Output Type to “Side-by-Side”. This is extremely important to consider because if is left on default when viewing SxS on a 3D monitor, the Parallax Guides will be scaled 200% larger than they should be. Setting “Side-by-Side” with scale the Parallax Guides properly.