With arrays of its popular HERO cameras already driving the engine that is spherical (also colloquially referred to as “360-degree” or “VR”) video, it’s only natural that GoPro would unveil its own professional solution, the Omni. Using six synchronized HERO4 Black cameras inside a single sturdy chassis, the Omni rig can capture footage from all angles simultaneously. Since each HERO4 Black camera records in 4K UHD resolution, the spherical videos created with this rig will have minimal artifacting around the sides of the image and will maintain sharpness when zooming in for a closer look at the action.
While the Omni rig can facilitate the creation of spherical video, it maintains a small form factor. Some spherical video rigs require dozens of cameras in ungainly configurations, creating a scenario that is not friendly to content creators who are on a budget or looking to carry the camera with them easily. Since the Omni only requires six cameras, it’s perfect for capturing intense adventures and it can be easily held in the hand, mounted on a vehicle, or secured to other adventuring gear using the threaded holes on the corners.
GoPro has held more specific details of the Omni close; however, more information will be out soon at the NAB Show.
Check back over the course of the NAB Show for more coverage and product details, as well as pricing and availability info here at B&H.
