Combination of a number of photographic images
in order to make a high-resolution image or segmented panorama with the help of
overlapping fields is known as image stitching. This is how large profile can
be created after clicking beautiful pictures.
This process is
usually performed with the assistance of a complex edit program. In a quest to
obtain seamless results, it is essential to stitch an image with exact overlaps
along with exposures that are identical. Once this is achieved, the final outcome
would be absolutely flawless. With technology reaching new heights, digital
cameras are available today that have the ability to stitch an image
internally.
There are three
important components associated with the process of image stitching.
Image Registration
While carrying out
the process of image stitching, the editor should ensure that there is minimum
difference between overlapping pixels. In order to achieve this, it is
important to first identify matching features in different images. This can be
done with the help of direct alignment methods. Ideally, the expert working on
the image should calibrate images so as to obtain better results. Additional
efforts should be taken to ensure that matching features are identified between
images. There are cases wherein there are minute groups of features that match
and hence tools that can identify accurately should be made use of. The
comparison is not only accurate, but faster as well. Reputed image stitching
services tend to use the most effective tools and
hence are able to come up with the best results.
Image Calibration
It is essential to
minimize the difference between the camera lens combination and ideal lens
models including exposure, distortions, and chromatic aberrations and
vignetting. This can be achieved with the help of Image calibration. To stitch
more than one image, it is important to know the exact positioning of the
features involved in an image. Hence, recording and saving the positioning of
features in images becomes a vital process. Once the positioning is saved and
available, images are placed on the panosphere.
Image Blending
The adjustments that
are identified during the calibration stage need to be executed in a near
perfect manner. Image blending is the process wherein this execution takes
place. During this stage, remapping of images takes place. Lot of work is done
in order to get the color combination right which further minimizes the
difference between exposures of images that are to be stitched together. In
some cases, use of high dynamic range is also encouraged. This is a process
which helps obtain near accurate merging of different images. However, only
stitching images together is not enough. Once stitching is complete, it is
important to minimize the visibility of the seams that tend to occur between
images. Seams not minimized would clearly indicate to the fact that the images
have been merged together. Hence, seamline adjustment process is carried out at
the end to ensure that seams are not visible.
Panorama Tools,
Panorama maker, Autostitch, Ptgui and Hugin are some of the dedicated programs
that carry out image stitching services.
Image stitching is regarded as one of the most complex aspects involved in
photo editing. As an aspiring editing expert, learning the art of merging
different images and making it look one is indeed important.
