VRChat Introduces 'Camera Dolly' – A New Tool for Creators
Metaverse | Extended Reality
2-minute read
During the pandemic, documentaries like We Met in Virtual Reality, filmed in VRChat, and others we've covered like Knit's Island and Grand Theft Hamlet, have captured the essence of virtual worlds and gaming. This niche yet captivating documentary genre is gaining traction among filmmakers exploring the virtual world.
On February 13th, VRChat announced the 2025.1.2 Open Beta version. The highlight? The "Camera Dolly" feature. This allows users to preset camera movement paths for smooth and stable shots, significantly enhancing the video quality for VRChat creators. However, the Camera Dolly doesn't have a built-in recording function, so users will need third-party tools like OBS to capture footage. Currently, this feature is available only to VRC+ subscribers.
What is Camera Dolly? What Features Does it Offer?
In the real world, camera dolly techniques are often used in films, TV shows, and music videos. Essentially, it involves moving the camera smoothly along a track. Common techniques include dolly in, dolly out, tracking shots, and circular shots.
Yes, you guessed it! In VRChat, players can now experiment with these professional camera movements, making it a playground for photographers and videographers in the virtual world!
Main features include:
1. Setting Camera Movement Paths
You can set predetermined camera paths and support multiple animations for more flexible shots.
2. Advanced Camera Controls
Position and Rotation Adjustments: Precisely set the camera's start and end points and angles.
Zoom Adjustments: Change focal length to simulate cinematic perspective changes, zooming in or out on subjects.
Focal Distance & Aperture: Adjust focus distance and aperture size to control depth of field, adding layers to your images.
Look-at-me Offset (New Feature): Set the camera's focus target to keep subjects centered in the frame.
Green Screen Color Adjustment (New Feature): Offers a built-in green screen mode for easy post-production editing.
3. Smooth Animation Transitions
Customize camera movement speed and transition effects, like linear or smooth transitions, for natural and fluid shots. It also supports looping, allowing the camera to continuously follow a specific path.
4. OSC Support
Users can remotely control camera parameters via OSC signals, perfect for advanced creators seeking detailed camera operations in the virtual world.
According to the official statement, Camera Dolly is still in the Beta testing phase. Even when the 2025.1.2 version officially launches, it may remain in Beta as further optimizations are made. Additionally, VRChat has released a Demo World for players to experience the Camera Dolly firsthand.
