The fundamental principle of bullet time effect is essentially the coordination of more than one camera and shooting them all at the same time. That’s how the main effect works, but much has changed since 2020. We now have new camera models and a collection of tools that allows us to create the effect quickly.
What is Bullet Time Effect
Bullet Time Effect is a type of video and game feature that dramatically delays or changes the time and frame of time. The time is slowed down to reveal things that normally can not be seen and filmed using a single camera. It just uses a bunch of cameras to sequentially shoot a 3D effect to show the subject in a way that generates a 3D motion effect. Depending on the degree there are three main types of Bullet Time Effect.
1. 90 Degree Effect:
It is the basic effect that involves only minimal tuning. This type of effect can be achieved with only 6 to 12 cameras at the 90 ° angle of the subject.
2. 180 Degree Effect:
The event organizers, photo booths, and live events are really common with 180 degree effect, because you can make those impressive 180 effects with just 12–18 cameras. This is the most common type of bullet, as it is simple to manufacture and cost less.
3. 360 Degree Effect
The effect takes place from an angle of 360 degrees and creates a wonderful circular effect. It takes about 18–32 cameras with a circular rig to create a total view of 360 degrees.
Hardwares & Software for Bullet time effect
If you use the latest technology, bullet time effect doesn’t need much. In early 2000, you required a bunch of equipment like raspberry pi to connect to the camera as well as an external trigger box to shoot your cameras. The problem with the raspberry pi and the external trigger box was the chaotic configuration. But you can see how a bullet time effect can be produced without any external triggering box or a raspberry pi. This hardware is needed:
1. A desktop computer or a laptop.
2. DSLR cameras
3. Power Adapter for Camera
4. Powered USB Hub
5. USB cables
6. A Bullet Time Camera Array Rig
Thanks to its robust customizability and accessibility, Cor2tect provides the most unique software for bullet time. Because you just use USB to connect your cameras, your overall set-up is smooth and clean as no extra cable will be needed. You don’t need to use any external trigger box with an integrated quick trigger system. The following benefits are achieved with Cor2tect’s Bullet Time Software solution:
1. Eliminate the use of analog or external trigger box for bullet timeslice
2. Throw out your Raspberry PI microprocessor as a USB hub is enough to connect 50+ cameras in just one PC.
3. You just need one click to create the perfect 3D bullet time slice effect.
4. Add the Jump & freeze effect without any analog trigger box.
5. Automatic solution for fast video processing
6. All-inclusive service for your live event’s needs.
7. Bespoke service according to your business needs for a hassle-free setup.
8. Free 24/7 online support
9. Superfast calibration in any situation.
Bullet Time Effect In Three Steps
This part, I’ll explain how to set up and attach cameras to the software and explain the steps which will help you to create the actual bullet time effect.
Step 1: Camera Setup
Setting up the camera is quick if you use Cor2tect’s bullet time solution. You just have to get a USB hub. I’m sure you know a USB hub and from your nearest hardware store, you can buy one. Link a single camera to the USB hub using USB cables. The Computer is attached to the USB hub cord.
Step 2: Camera Connection
You need to start the software after you have checked that the cameras are connected to your computer. You could see on the software that the cameras were located. Connect your cameras now.
Step 3: Camera Triggering
You also have to configure the settings of your camera including ISO, shutter speed, aperture, etc. All camera settings can be managed from the software. You will calibrate the cameras until you’re satisfied with the settings. It takes five to ten seconds and can be achieved with any horizontal bar that contains four colored objects. The light element is either yellow or orange. While making 90 and 180 bullet times, the horizontal straight bar is used. For 360 effect, you have to calibrate with a circular circle, as the bullet time is 360 angles. You should start shooting once the calibration has been completed. For triggering the cameras you do not need a trigger box. Enable auto-export and you can produce output in real-time.
I have another blog in which you will find a detailed explanation of how you can create a bullet-time effect. So please check that blog out if you want to learn more about bullet time effect. If you have any confusion please leave a comment below.