Abstract: An automated adjustable mannequin is provided for use as a platform for producing computer generated fashion model clothing displays. The clothing displays may be static photographs or video. The mannequin combines manually adjustable dress forms currently used by seamstresses and clothing designers with three dimensional scanning and photographic technologies. Actual body scan data of a living model may be used to automatically adjust the shape or contours of a dress form in real time to match the size and dimensions of a previously photographed model. The automated adjustments to the mannequin may be made at a rate of one frame at a time or 30 frames per second, where the body-form adapts to changes in the underlying model's movements.

Abstract: A modular lighting fixture is provided for use in photographic chambers that provides a combination of high flux, the ability to place/tuck the lighting fixture against a wall, and the ability to flash/tune the lighting fixture dynamically. The lighting fixture is based on light emitting diode elements to provide an energy efficient light source that generates far less heat than traditional mercury arc based lamps. The lighting fixture is modular and can be daisy chained to supply power and/or control signals to multiple attached lighting fixtures. Individual lighting fixtures may be joined together to form an array of lighting fixtures. The lighting fixtures may utilize the digital multiplex DMX512 standard for digital communication networks for controlling the lighting elements within the fixtures. The lighting fixture has a light output that is capable of providing a wide beam angle.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for photographing vehicles in a deployable photobooth structure that avoids corner lighting issues common with angular shaped photobooths. The walls of the photobooth are made of an opaque fabric or panels. A frame supports photographic lighting, as well as rods from which the fabric that forms the walls is hung. The photobooth itself may be hung from a ceiling and deployed downward or retracted upward to a ceiling. The photobooth may also be mobile and used in outdoor settings. If not hung, vertical support legs may be used to support the frame above the floor or ground. Low volume car photos are obtained where a user walks about the inside perimeter of the photobooth and takes a series of photographs or video. The images or video may then be manipulated by computer to provide seamless reflection free 360 degree images.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for determining surface defects of an object under study. A photographic tool is employed to produce real-time blending of a series of images of a static object where each of the individual images are illuminated under a different lighting condition with respect to the static object. The achieved effect is similar to what is experienced when looking at a painted surface from different perspectives in order to see if there are any imperfections. For example, in the case of automotive photography, paint problems, sheen differences, scratches, dents, and small dings may only be visible when the vehicle is lit from a specific or correct angle.

Abstract: A bowl-shaped photographic stage and photographic system is provided that produces consistent diffused lighting of an object or subject that is virtually shadow free for obtaining rotational views of the object in a time efficient manner. The bowl-shaped photographic stage may be used with a camera array, or a single camera may be moved around the circumference of the photographic stage to obtain a series of images needed to form a rotational view of an object or subject. Alternatively, the bowl-shaped photographic stage may be rotated to pass by a single fixed camera to obtain a series of images needed to form a rotational view of an object or subject.

Abstract: A photographic paddle and process of use thereof are provided. The photographic paddle is used for photographing interior or close-up vehicle exterior region features of a subject vehicle, and to rapidly produce high-quality images that are reflection-free and glare-free. The photographic paddle has the ability to produce wide-angle high-quality images and stereoscopic three-dimensional images that are reflection-free and glare-free. The photographic paddle has additional utility to photograph interior and close-up vehicle exterior region features of a subject vehicle in-situ in a densely arranged inventory lot without having to move the vehicle to and from a staging area.

Abstract: A vehicle photographic booth is provided that accommodates cameras with lenses with focal lengths that avoid wide angle distortion that is common in low end car photography. The photographic booth has an ovoid hemispherical dome shape with a camera mounted at the apex of the ovoid portion so as to accommodate longer focal length lenses. The overall dimension of the ovoid section of the dome for placement of a camera is determined by the available floor space of a user. The use of an enclosed ovoid hemispherical dome shape that rotates with respect to a stationary stage, or in the alternative a fixed enclosed ovoid hemispherical dome with a rotating stage allows for much less light to be needed as compared to a full open volume. An ovoid shape also provides a smaller fixed footprint than a full structure for an equal camera distance from a subject.

Abstract: A camera mount is provided for photographing vehicles in photo booths or circular domed structures where an automated process captures a series of vehicle images, and uploads the captured images to a web template for display and recordation. The mount has an adjustable base that supports a camera and provides a range of camera angles, positions, and tilts as needed. The base is attached to an enclosure box of the mount, and the enclosure box attaches to a frame that affixes to an exterior portion of a wall of the photo booth and keeps the camera plumb and square. The mount allows for quick camera replacement without having to aim the camera. A single backup unit may be installed into any camera position no matter what tilt or angle the camera is set at. The mount has an automated shutter flap that hides the camera when not in use.