The Harry Potter books and movies may not have had an immediate influence on the future of photography, but it definitely had an impact.
Thank you, JK Rowling.
You see, in the books and movies, the newspaper, called the Daily Prophet, had photographs which were like videos. So although they’re on printed pages of paper, the imagery moves.
Fun, right? We think so!
In the real world of photography, here on planet Earth, there are two companies offering products that are paving the way for future moving photographs on printed paper.
Flixel and Plotagraph.
Both companies take unique approaches to the result.
Flixel
Flixel starts with video. You have to record video of your subject and then mask away the movement to create the still part of the image. That means you need a video camera, ideally with superb resolution. 4K video is what we recommend to get going. Even a newer iPhone could do the job. In fact, there is an iOS app you could use!
Plotagraph
Plotagraph starts with a still. Using the unique algorithms created by founder, Troy Christopher Plota, you create your points of motion, mask what you want still versus animated, and then create the final product. The software can export as animated GIFs, MP4s and more.
Our choice
Both Flixel and Plotagraph are fantastic. They each have their place in the extremely niche genre of photography.
But our preference is Plotagraph because as photographers we are more likely to be making still images than moving ones (in camera at least). Starting from a still also means you would not need to switch camera modes while out in the field.
But with that said, the animation in Plotagraph Pro, although highly impressive, isn’t 100% true to life. It’s getting better with every update. But at this exactly point in time, if you need to most realistic animated look then Flixel might be the best choice for you. However, with enough time working the software, you can create realistic results.
For example, here is one that looks like a timelapse of clouds moving in a circular motion. It was made in Plotagraph Pro from a single still photograph.
Which style do you prefer, and why?
Like you mentioned, if you’re looking for more realistic results, I say Flixel, 100%.
You can spot a Plotograph animation right away, because the motion often seems unnatural. You also only see the effect applied to things like water, steam, and clouds, because most other movements don’t work with the technique. I challenge Plotograph users to try and create a blinking eye cinemagraph, or a person waving. Super simple in Cinemagraph Pro 😉
-San