The Stereoscopic Society founded in 1893 has a long tradition of embracing modern technologies resulting in its membership having a wide diversity of interests in making and showing photographic 3D images. With the recent developments in 3D TV and 3D computer screens viewed with and without glasses members are producing their own photos and video material for display on them using twin camera rigs that they have synchronised themselves or purpose made 3D cameras such as the Fuji W1 and W3.
Digital photography with the use of image manipulation programs, such as Photoshop and Stereo Photo Maker, is used by many members but there is still strong support for traditional film techniques, particularly the 40mm x 101mm and 2 x 50mm transparency formats. Other interests include producing stereo print pairs for various viewing systems, including the traditional Victorian stereoscopic viewers. Also anaglyph prints which can be viewed by using the traditional red / cyan or red /green glasses.
Monthly meetings of The Stereoscopic Society which take place in London and Coventry from October to April have a club atmosphere. They typically include projection of members’ and guests’ film and digital work onto large 10ft screens viewed with polarising glasses. The programs also include workshops, show and tell sessions and an annual auction of members superfluous and unwanted 3D equipment. Attending the meetings and the annual convention are the ideal opportunities to meet up with people who have similar interests.
The Journal is The Stereoscopic Society’s magazine and is distributed to the the society’s members. The current format is a 40 plus page offset printed magazine in full colour for displaying members work along with articles, news and views and a sale board for second hand equipment.
Our annual Exhibition of stereoscopic images draws entries from all over the world with awards for prints, transparencies and digital entries. The selected entries are projected in a 3D Audio Visual presentation at both the London and Coventry meetings and Annual Convention.
The Stereoscopic Society's Annual Convention is held over a long week end, at a different location each year, in a town or city that has potentially interesting subjects for 3D photography or video. The program is a mixture of projection sessions including the entries for the Society’s short AV competition, work shops and visits to local places of interest.
Another aspect of the Society is the Folio Groups. These are based on different stereo formats such as 40mm x 101mm, View magic, Digital or AV where members circulate their work within a small group for peer review.
A Library available to members contains both new and out of print books on stereo / 3D topics, making it a valuable resource for many projects.
The list of Supplies available to members in addition to the special film mounts needed for mounting stereoscopic transparencies also includes a selection of 3D publication, CDs and Viewmaster reels that are difficult to come by elsewhere.
New members are always welcome. Members of the Stereoscopic Society receive 4 editions a year of the Society’s Journal and use of the Society’s lending library. Mounts for film, books and specialist 3d equipment can be purchased from our Supplies stock at a very reasonable price. Our members have a wealth of 3D knowledge and are all prepared to help with any problem you may have. Details for joining are on the Membership page or alternatively turn up at one of our monthly meetings and introduce yourself.
Forthcoming Events |
Next London Centre Meeting To be advised after summer break |
Next Coventry Centre Meeting |
28th June to July 1st |
3rd Tuesday in the month |
19th of May Photographica Fair at the Royal Horticultural Society's Lindley Hall in Vincent Square SW1P2PB |
An edited version of the 2013 Exhibition AV Show is now available for viewing |