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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of the most common questions. If you don't find what you are looking for, please contact us.

Getting Started

What is a Gigapan? show
GigaPan, or Gigapixel Panorama, is an extremely high resolution image. GigaPan images have amazing detail, achieved by combining hundreds or thousands of individual digital photos into one brilliant panorama.
How can I make a GigaPan? show
It´s easy with our complete GigaPan System - EPIC, Stitch and Website! The GigaPan EPIC, EPIC or EPIC Pro quickly and easily takes hundreds of individual photos with most ordinary digital cameras. GigaPan Stitch Software is custom software designed to combine these photos into one brilliant panorama with a billion pixels or more. GigaPan.com hosts your image online where you can share it, interact with other users, and see thousands of other amazing GigaPans.

Camera Compatibility

Will my camera work with the GigaPan EPIC? show
Over 200 common cameras are compatible with GigaPan products - please see our Compatible Camera page for the most recent listing.
 
What if my camera is not listed? show

If your camera is not listed as compatible, it either does not currently work with any of our systems or has not yet been tested. We regularly test new or common cameras and update the results on our Compatible Camera page. There are two general requirements for a camera to work with the EPIC:

  1. It must be able to physically fit on the GigaPan EPIC.
  2. The camera must have manual mode and the ability to set or lock exposure, white balance and focus.
Is there a GigaPan model for DSLR's? show
Yes, the EPIC Pro supports larger digital SLR cameras. Learn more about the EPIC Pro here. 

Equipment

What do I need to use the GigaPan EPIC? show
Here is a list of required and recommended equipment:
  • Tripod
  • GigaPan EPIC
  • 6 AA-sized Batteries for the EPIC or EPIC 100 (recommended: rechargeable NiMH batteries plus spares). The EPIC Pro comes with a rechargeable battery.
  • Compatible Digital Camera with memory card (4GB card recommended)
  • A Mac (Intel-Based) or PC with a minimum of 1 GB of RAM (recommended: 2 GB)
  • GigaPan Stitch Software Software
  • Memory Card USB Reader or USB camera cable

 

What kind of tripod should I use? show
Any basic, sturdy tripod will work. Having a quick release plate mechanism is helpful.
Will my camera work with the GigaPan EPIC? show
Over 200 common cameras are compatible with GigaPan products - please see our Compatible Camera page for the most recent listing.
What kind of batteries do you recommend? show

We recommend rechargeable NiMH batteries, as they often last longer and can be reused many times. AA batteries are used in the EPIC and EPIC 100. The EPIC Pro comes with a rechargeable battery.

What is the size and weight of the GigaPan EPIC? show
  • The EPIC´s dimensions are approximately 7.75" W x 5" D x 7.75" H, and it weighs approximately 4 lbs.
  • The EPIC 100´s dimensions are approximately 8.37"W x 5"D x 8.71"H, and it weighs approximately 4 lbs.
  • The EPIC Pro´s dimensions are approximately 10-5/8" x 11-7/8" x 5-7/8" (27.12cm x 30.25cm x 15 cm), and it weighs approximately 7.25 lbs. with Battery (3.3 kg).
How long does it take to shoot a GigaPan image? show
If you´re taking a panorama with fixed focus and fast shutter, you can capture over 20 pictures per minute. Indoor or night-time shots require longer shutter times and can take longer. Using the 2-second camera delay allows the GigaPan EPIC and tripod to settle before each picture.
What is the best way to transport the GigaPan EPIC? show

The EPIC is quite durable and easy to handle. It is easiest to use a camera bag or backpack and leave your camera attached to the EPIC.

How does the GigaPan EPIC perform in weather? show
The GigaPan EPIC can be used in snow, rain and wind. Keep the EPIC and camera as dry as possible, and be sure to secure your tripod so it will not tip over if bumped or pushed by wind.

Software

What are compatible Operating Systems? show
Windows XP and Vista, and Intel-based Macs with OS X 10.4+. You also need at least 1GB of RAM, but 2GB is recommended; and 30 GB of free hard drive space (this can be an external drive).
How long does the stitcher take? show
For gigapans up to several hundred input images, stitching can be as fast as shooting (just seconds per input image). GigaPan Stitch Software quickly prepares a low resolution preview of the final result, allowing the user to view, check, and even begin upload and export of their gigapan before it is completed. GigaPan Stitch Software can do stitching, viewing, uploading, and exporting simultaneously, if desired.
What are my options after stitching? show
You may save your GigaPan to the location of your choice. You are also given the option to export as a Tiff or PhotoShop format. When the stitching is complete you are prompted to upload your GigaPan. You may upload your panorama to the GigaPan.com website, or open it later and upload when and if you wish.
Which stitching software should I use? show
GigaPan Stitch Software is custom software developed for use with the GigaPan EPIC and provided with each EPIC purchase. Our software integrates information from your
images for faster, more accurate stitching. Third party stitching software will also work with our images.
How do I know if I am using the most current GigaPan Stitching Software? show
The current Software releases can be found on the GigaPan Stitch software page. 
To see what version of the software is installed on your computer, find the program on your computer and look at its name - the version number is included in the name.
How do I get a copy of the GigaPan Stitch software? show
GigaPan Stitch Software is only available with the purchase of a GigaPan EPIC. EPIC owners can download their software online. Just go to the GigaPan Stitch page for details on the software and how to check your remaining licenses and purchase additional copies.

View and Share at GigaPan.com

Can I embed my panorama in my website or blog? show
Yes, provided you agree to and abide by the GigaPan Terms of Embedding. Learn more about embedding here.
How do I embed? show
Method 1: Anyone can go to the detail page of a gigapan whose owner has checked the "Allow others to embed" box. Once there, click Embed and copy/paste the code.
Method 2: The owner of a gigapan can use the Embedding Wizard by going to "My Gigapans" and clicking the "Embed" link next to any embeddable gigapan then following the instructions on the embed wizard page.
Can I comment on other panoramas? show
Yes, we invite you to be part of the GigaPan community. You can share ideas, take a snapshot, or make comments. Once you upload your image, your panorama is featured at GigaPan.com and you can enjoy the response. The GigPan community explores and shares images, learning and making amazing discoveries.
How can I make my panorama visible in Google Earth? show

Login in to your account. After logging in, click on "My GigaPans" at the top right side of the page. All of your panoramas will be displayed. Click on your panorama to view it's detail page, then click on the Edit button. Access geolocation interface by clicking on the "Place this panorama in Google Earth" link. The image location data can be changed by dragging the map interface or by editing the text boxes that list the image coordinates. Be sure to click the "Save" button located below the coordinates after any changes.

Do note, panoramas are not automatically included in the Gigapan layer in Google Earth. Displayed panoramas are hand-selected and only periodically updated. We look at several aspects when deciding which panoramas to include in the Google Earth layer update, including the quality of the image, interesting features of the image, and quality of the geolocation/placement in Google Earth.

How do I join the Gigapan community? show
Register for free! Becoming part of our community allows you to view, share and explore incredible high resolution imagery. Share your own panoramas and your insights about others. Explore and discuss amazing panoramas from around the world.

Purchasing

Where can I buy GigaPan Products? show
Our products are available via this website and several international distributors. Interested in becoming a retailer? Please contact us
How much will shipping cost? show
Once you place a product in our online shopping cart, click "Proceed To Checkout". Enter your name and shipping address to see a list of shipping options. Choose a shipping option to see your final price.
How can I pay for my order? show
We accept all major credit cards. Other terms may be available for bulk purchases (5 EPICs or more) - if you qualify, contact us for more information
What is your return policy? show
If you are not satisfied with your GigaPan product, you can request a return within 30 days from the date of your purchase. Products must be in sellable, like new condition and include all original materials. Approved returns will receive a full refund of the product cost. Some products, such as accessories and software, are not eligible, so please review our return policy first and then contact customer service for any further support.

Shipping

What shipping options do you offer? show
We ship via USPS and UPS and offer a variety of choices offering both speed and value. To see a shipping quote, place a product in our online shopping cart, then click "Proceed To Checkout". Enter your name and shipping address to see a list of shipping options.
How fast will my GigaPan arrive? show
All models are currently in stock, and orders usually ship the next business day. We offer a variety of shipping choices offering both speed and value, including overnight shipping in the US.