Text Box: If popular hype is to be believed, we are currently living through something of a 3D revolution in popular culture. Following the release of Avatar, Hollywood has embraced 3D film-making with a passion that has left some observers rubbing their eyes in bemusement (or perhaps just rubbing their eyes). There have been 3D movies and 3D television channels; 3D Blu-Ray discs and 3D tennis matches. We have been urged to buy 3D televisions, 3D computer monitors, and even 3D toothpaste (whatever that means).

The Illusion of Depth

 

       But the term “3D” tends to generate mixed reactions these days. In just a few short years it has gone from the latest Hollywood innovation to being yet another tiresome, overused gimmick; at best, an excuse to charge higher ticket prices for the sake of having to wear uncomfortable, nerdy glasses.

 

       None of this does justice to the long and complicated story of 3D, which began long before Avatar. In fact, the current 3D buzz is merely the latest blip in a tale that began almost 180 years ago, when two images were first combined to create a single “stereoscopic” picture.

 

 Since the unveiling of the first Stereoscope in 1838, 3D photography has been used to document warfare, natural disasters, scenic wonders, famous faces and naked bodies. No self-respecting Victorian family would have been caught without a Stereoscope in their household, but that was just the beginning of the story.

 

 In this series of in-depth, richly illustrated talks Shawm Kreitzman will examine the long, curious story of 3D photography: its history, technique and application, and he will debunk some of the myths and misconceptions that have taken hold over the years.
Text Box: October 12th Length A General Time-line of Stereoscopic Photography The Origins of Stereoscopic Photography; Its development from a 19th Century academic exercise to a full-fledged Victorian craze. The ideas and principles behind 3D photography, and the individuals who made it a reality, as well as the ways in which it was presented to the public.

November 9th    

Breadth

3D In the 20th Century.

· The many forms taken by 3D in the years following the First World War, including the use of 3D as a propaganda tool and an instrument of war.

· The growing consumerism of 3D, as photography in general becomes more democratic, and more readily available to ordinary consumers.

· Hollywood gets into the act...

December 14th    

Depth

3D in the Modern Age and Beyond

· 3D Goes Digital!

· Hollywood tries again, and 3D is (yet again) hailed as a “new” technology. Not everything goes smoothly.

· The advantages and disadvantages of shooting in 3D, and some of the tricks and techniques unique to stereoscopic photography.