What to look for
- ResolutionMore pixels means sharper detail when visitors zoom in. For property tours, look for photos of at least 6000 × 3000 pixels.
- HDRCombines several exposures, so bright windows and dark corners both show. It matters a lot indoors.
- A phone appLets you take the shot from another room, and usually exports the finished panorama as a JPG.
- StitchingDual-lens cameras join two images; the closer the lenses, the less you notice the seam on nearby objects.
Popular choices
Common cameras for virtual tours include the Ricoh Theta, Insta360, Trisio and GoPro Max ranges. Compare sample photos and reviews before you buy: models change every year.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera on a panoramic head gives the sharpest results, but you take several photos per spot and stitch them yourself. See Turn fisheye and INSP photos into 360° panoramas.
Video: top picks from 360 Rumors
Michael Ty of 360 Rumors talked us through his favourite cameras in 2020. The models have moved on since, but what he looks for still applies:
Tips
- Mind the file size. Panoramas can be up to 100MB on the Business and Unlimited plans, and 30MB on Essential. See Image specifications.
- Read How to take a 360 photo before your first shoot.
Common questions
Does TeliportMe work with Insta360 and Ricoh Theta cameras?
Yes, as long as you export the photo as a full equirectangular JPG or PNG. The Ricoh Theta apps and Insta360 Studio both export one; Insta360’s INSP files need converting first. See Convert INSP to JPG.
What resolution do I need for a real estate virtual tour?
For property tours, look for a camera that takes photos of at least 6000 × 3000 pixels. TeliportMe accepts panoramas up to 16K on the Essential plan, and up to 32K on Business and Unlimited.
Can I use a DSLR instead of a 360 camera?
Yes. A DSLR or mirrorless camera on a panoramic head gives the sharpest panoramas, but you take several photos per spot and stitch them into one equirectangular image yourself, with software such as PTGui or Hugin.