A stereogram is a 2D graphic containing a hidden 3D image. Stereograms are composed of either patterns or randomly colored dots, much like those found in Magic Eye books and posters.
How to view stereograms
There are several simple ways to view any stereogram. The main premise, however, is the same for all methods. You are trying to achieve a level of focus deep into the screen. Focus past the stereogram as if you are looking at something hidden behind it.
Method #1: If you are viewing the stereogram on your screen try this method first. Look for a reflection in your monitor. Focus on the reflection until something magical happens . . . with any luck, you will be seeing a 3D image inside your monitor.
Method #2: Put your nose against the monitor. Don't go cross-eyed trying to stay focused on the screen. Simply look straight ahead maintaining a comfortable focus. Now, slowly pull away from the monitor, and the 3D image will literally snap into focus.
Method #3: For this method, turn on the "focus dots" option (see below). Use either of the first two methods, but pay attention to the focus dots, not the stereogram itself. If you are properly focused on the focus dots, instead of the two original dots, you will now see three. Once this is accomplished, if you look down at the stereogram, you will see the hidden image.
How to make a stereogram
Step #1: Load a depth picture (see below) by selecting "Open" from the "File" menu.
Step #2: Set the options to your liking (see below)
Step #3: Select "Make Stereogram" from the "Stereogram" menu.
Step #4: You can now save your stereogram, print it, or copy it to the clipboard.
Options
Focus Dots: If you select this option then two black and white circles will be placed at the top of any stereogram you make. These circles can be used to help you view stereograms. For more information on how to use focus dots, read method #3 (see above).
Negative Image/Cross-eyed: By default, the lightest part of a depth picture is shown at the front of the 3D image. If this option is selected, then the darkest part of the depth picture will be at the front of the 3D image. Alternatively, this option can be used to change the way you view the stereogram. If this option is selected, the viewing the stereogram cross-eyed will cause the 3D image to pop out of the screen.
Height: This indicates how many distinct levels the 3D image will have. For any given depth picture you will want to experiment with the height to determine the best height for that particular depth picture. If you have no idea where to start, then 12 is a good value to start with.
Maximize Levels: Maximize Levels allows you to create much smoother 3D images. In fact, using this option, Stereogram Studio can produce so many levels that the 3D image appears completely continuos to the human eye. There are 4 different settings for maximize levels, ranging from 2x to 5x. As the setting becomes higher Stereogram Studio will require more memory, but will create much higher quality stereograms.
Use Random Dots: If this option is selected then the stereogram will be made out of randomly colored dots. After selecting "Options" you can change the coloration of the random dots by selecting the tab labeled "Random Dots". The dots can be black and white, grayscale, or millions of colors. You can also select 2-8 colors of your own choice. By clicking on the colored rectangles you can change the color of each. If "2-8 colors' is selected then only those colors with a check by them will be used in the stereogram.
Use Pattern: If this option is selected then the stereogram will be made up of a repeated pattern. You can select which pattern you want by selecting "Options" and then selecting the tab labeled "Patterns". There will be four patterns for you to choose from. Next to one of the patterns is a button labeled "Load New Pattern". If you click on that button then you will be able to load either a pattern that you have created or found, or one of the additional patterns that comes with Stereogram Studio.
Depth pictures
A depth picture serves as the template for the 3D image hidden within the stereogram. The lighter parts of the depth picture will appear towards the front of the 3D image, and darker parts will appear to be distant. You can use color, grayscale, or black and white images for your depth pictures. One good way to make a depth picture is to recolor a cartoon image. Or, if you feel especially creative, make your own original depth pictures using your favorite graphics program. Photographs will typically not make a good depth picture, but with proper colorization it is possible. Depth pictures should be at least 100 pixels wide. The main part of the image should have ample spacing on either side of itself.
Tips for making patterns
Just about any image will serve as a good pattern. Stereogram Studio will automatically resize any patterns you load to 56X56, so feel free to make patterns any size you want. Square patterns generally work best. Continuos patterns, patterns that have no clear edge when repeated, will create the best looking stereograms. The more detail and contrast in a pattern, the sharper the 3D image will appear in the stereogram.
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