360 HDRI Capture Workflow (Ricoh Theta V)

360 HDRI Capture Workflow (Ricoh Theta V)

On-set PA guide • 5-shot bracketed 360 stills • no camera knowledge required

What this is for

You are capturing five 360 photos at different exposure levels. These will be merged into a single HDRI for lighting and reflections in VFX.

1

Install the Ricoh Theta app

Install the official Ricoh Theta app on your phone.

Android – Google Play
Google Play Store
iPhone – App Store
Apple App Store
Open the app once so it’s ready when you arrive on set.
2

What you need on set

  • Ricoh Theta V camera (charged)
  • Tripod or light stand with 1/4″ screw
  • Smartphone with the Ricoh Theta app
  • A safe spot where the camera won’t be bumped
3

Mount and position the camera

  1. Set the tripod on level ground.
  2. Screw the Theta V on until snug.
  3. Check it is upright and not leaning.
  4. Place it where crew won’t walk through.
Do not move the camera again until all five shots are complete.
4

Connect your phone to the Theta V

  1. Turn on the camera.
  2. Press the Wi-Fi button (blue light).
  3. Join the THETA Wi-Fi network on your phone.
  4. Enter the password printed on the camera.
  5. Open the Ricoh Theta app and confirm live preview.
5

Set Multi Bracket mode

  1. Set camera to Still Image mode.
  2. Open settings.
  3. Select Multi bracket shooting.
6

Configure the five exposures

  • ISO: 100 (day) or 400 (interior)
  • White balance fixed (5600K daylight / 3200K tungsten)
  • Shutter speeds:
1/25
1/100
1/400
1/1600
1/6400
Only shutter speed should change. ISO and WB must match.
7

Capture the bracket

  1. Confirm Multi bracket is active.
  2. Press the shutter once.
  3. Do not touch the camera until capture finishes.
8

Transfer and deliver

Copy the five images off the camera and deliver to VFX.

HDRI_01_1-25s.jpg
HDRI_02_1-100s.jpg
HDRI_03_1-400s.jpg
HDRI_04_1-1600s.jpg
HDRI_05_1-6400s.jpg