Welcome back fellow travelers, this week we’re heading deeper into the immersive matrix of VRChat visiting three more community-recommended destinations that will leave you wanting to come back for more. This time, we'll lose ourselves in the hypnotic rhythms of Audio Orbs, take a stroll through Experience and see what it's like to walk inside the iconic Windows XP desktop wallpaper, and finally relax and find serenity listening to the tunes of Porter Robinson on a small island paradise in Hollowheart.
Don't forget, if you stumble upon any extraordinary VRChat gems or other hidden VR wonders on another platform, send us an email at tips@uploadvr.com.
Audio Orbs
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First up is the mesmerizing world of Audio Orbs. This destination promises a sensory journey by combining vibrant visuals with immersive soundscapes. Created as an interactive music visualizer, Audio Orbs lets you step into a digital fantasy where every beat and melody are represented by mesmerizing displays of swirling colors and lights.
As you navigate through this dynamic landscape, everything here pulsates in sync with the music, creating an experience that’s not just seen and heard, but also felt as the visuals wash over you. In Audio Orbs, the lines between sound and sight blur, making it almost feel like you’re dancing with the music itself. This world encapsulates how VR can transcend traditional media, offering an experience that’s unique and one you won’t want to miss the next time you're in VRChat.
Next up on our journey is a world that for some of us should provide a heavy dose of nostalgia. Inspired by the iconic Windows XP desktop wallpaper, Experience takes that familiar vista and turns it into a fully realized environment you can roam around in. The rolling green hills and clear blue sky of the classic Bliss image have been lovingly recreated, right down to the last pixel.
If you ever had one of those daydreams of being sucked into the PC the beginning of this experience captures that feeling perfectly. For those who grew up with Windows XP or some of us who just sat at work staring off into the distance of that perfect landscape on our desktops hoping the hours would pass quicker, Experience is a delightful blend of old and new and a place where past meets future in the most unique way possible.
For our final destination this week we get ourselves stranded on a unique tiny island in Hollowheart. Created in honor of the 10th anniversary of Porter Robinson’s seminal album, WORLDS.
Hollowheart is a small, intimate island, barely large enough for a few steps in any direction but despite its compact size, this world oozes with a trippy yet relaxing vibe. As you chill and soak in the atmosphere, the ambient tunes from Porter Robinson's WORLDS wash over you, creating a deeply immersive experience. The island itself is a dreamscape, bathed in purple hues and ethereal light, with an abstract hand-like structure dominating the horizon, providing a striking visual that mirrors the album's blend of reality and fantasy. The skyline in the distance and the surrounding nature also creates a serene yet slightly surreal state of mind, inviting you to pause and soak in every detail.
Though it might be small in scale, Hollowheart still offers a monumental experience and one where exploration isn't so much about walking around in the world, but exploring one's self and finding the mysteries that lie within. So, whether you're a long-time admirer of the WORLDS album or a newcomer to Robinson's music, this VR space provides a sanctuary where the digital and the emotional seamlessly intertwine.
That wraps up our VRChat exploration for this week but don’t hang up your headsets just yet! Next week, we’ll be visiting three more exciting worlds so stay tuned. Until then, keep exploring these amazing virtual landscapes!
Be sure to check out some of the other articles in this series:
Welcome back, curious VR travelers... Our journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of VRChat continues as we dive into three more community recommended destinations that aim to capture the imagination and provide unforgettable experiences. We'll start by getting lost in the rhythm of MONDO GROSSO / FORGOTTEN, then bask in the peaceful ambiance of Café Summer Sky, and finally, plunge into the vibrant ecosystems of Aquarius.
As always, if you've uncovered any virtual gems in VRChat or any other social VR platforms please share them with us at tips@uploadvr.com.
MONDO GROSSO / FORGOTTEN
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Our first stop this week is a sonic delight. In MONDO GROSSO / FORGOTTEN we find a world that’s a tribute to the legendary Japanese musician Shinichi Osawa, better known by his stage name, MONDO GROSSO. In this world visitors can expect to be swept away by the eclectic beats and visually stunning environments all inspired by Osawa’s extensive discography. As you navigate this musical experience, every corner pulses with rhythms and melodies, providing a blissful auditory experience.
MONDO GROSSO / FORGOTTEN feels like stepping into a living album cover. Fans of electronic music or just casual explorers should appreciate the dynamic visual effects that are perfectly synchronized with the music pumping all around you. With its audiovisual artistry, this world is a perfect example of how VR can elevate our appreciation of music even higher.
Next, we find solace in the tranquil Café Summer Sky. This quaint café offers a perfect escape from the frantic pace of both real and virtual worlds alike. Imagine a cozy spot under a summer sky where you can sip a virtual latte while looking out over gently rolling clouds. The charm of Café Summer Sky lies in its simplicity and this world captures the essence of a peaceful spot to grab a cup of your favorite blend and just relax perfectly. It’s an ideal place to meet friends for a chat, reflect quietly, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings so next time you’re in VRChat be sure to drop by the Café Summer Sky.
Our final destination this week sees us plunging into the mesmerizing depths of Aquarius. This captivating world brings the beauty and mystery of underwater ecosystems to life. Artfully designed, Aquarius immerses you in a vibrant, aquatic biome where stunning visuals are just the beginning.
Through the glass of the habitat you can explore detailed underwater scenery teeming with exotic marine life. The world is alive with movement and color, creating a sense of wonder and tranquility. But Aquarius isn't just about visuals, it's also an educational experience. Interactive displays on the walls and tablets laying about provide fascinating insights into various marine species and their habitats, making it both entertaining and informative.
Whether you're chilling in the conversation pit watching your favorite weekly VR gaming podcast on the in-world video player, shooting some pool in the lounge or just petting one of the many virtual cats in this world, it's clear that Aquarius offers a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape and relax under the sea.
That's it for this week, fellow travelers, but don't stow away your headsets just yet. Next week, we’ll continue our exploration by going inside another music visualizer in Audio Orbs, take a trip inside of the Iconic Windows XP desktop wallpaper and relax on an island listening to the sounds of Porter Robinson in Hollowheart so until then... Keep exploring!
Be sure to check out some of the other articles in this series:
As we continue our journey through some of the most amazing worlds VRChat offers, this week we'll immerse ourselves in three more community recommended worlds starting with the nostalgia-filled 77077 Arcade & Bar, then entering the expansive and educational world of Niko's Solar System, and finally dropping in on the groundbreaking musical experience of Oxymore from Jean-Michel Jarre.
As always, we invite you to share your VRChat discoveries with us at tips@uploadvr.com.
77077 Arcade & Bar
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Let's start out this week by stepping back in time to visit a city block circa 1994. In 77077 Arcade & Bar we find a world that is steeped in the nostalgia of a time when hanging out at the local arcade or renting games and movies at your favorite Blockbuster Video store was always a great time. Designed with meticulous attention to the smallest details, this world features both a recreation of a Blockbuster Video store and an arcade that seemingly serves as a museum of video gaming history, offering several cabinets and consoles to view and learn more about. Visiting this arcade and the Blockbuster store perfectly captures the magic of the 1990s, making this world an unmissable destination for those looking to relive the glory days.
Next up we'll venture into the cosmos with Niko's Solar System, a world that offers a constantly updated model of our own celestial backyard. Originally created for the sadly now shut down AltspaceVR, this world has now found a new home in VRChat. Niko's Solar System is not just a visually stunning place to visit but also serves as an educational experience, boasting accurate size ratios of all the planets and moons represented, along with some spectacular animations as you delve deeper into the experience. With this highly detailed recreation you can also walk inside planets to explore their inner cores while watching animations of cosmic events unfold before your virtual eyes. This world is a true testament to the beauty and complexity of our solar system and provides an immersive experience for space enthusiasts and curious minds alike that you won't want to miss.
For our last stop this week we embark on an auditory and visual journey like no other by visiting the official virtual world of Oxymore. Based around the musical stylings of Jean-Michel Jarre and with the success of his 2021 New Year's Eve concert from Notre-Dame, a performance that was presented both virtually as well as live, Jean-Michel Jarre pushes the boundaries of what was possible in both realities. In the world of Oxymore visitors will find a concert experience that kicks off every hour, taking them on a magical journey through a post-industrial city all while listening to tracks laid out by the iconic artist.
This groundbreaking experience which unlike many of the worlds we have been featuring is also Quest compatible, offers a 50-minute journey through Oxyville, a city inspired by electronic music and designed to envelop both the visual and auditory senses. Nominated for Raindance Immersive's Best Immersive Experience and Best Immersive Performance, Oxymore stands as a tribute to the blending of music, art and virtual reality and is for sure a world in VRChat that you must see for yourself to truly appreciate.
That’s it for this week, but keep those headsets charged and at the ready because next week we've got three more awesome and inspiring community recommended worlds coming your way. Come back then and join us as we surround ourselves with the music of MONDO GROSSO ⁄ FORGOTTEN, relax at the tranquil Café Summer Sky, and take a plunge into the mesmerizing aquatic biomes of Aquarius so keep your headsets charged and at the ready world-hoppers, because these next adventures we're going on are not to be missed but until then... keep exploring!
Be sure to check out some of the other articles in this series:
As we continue our journey across the vast landscape of VRChat, we're back to bring you another set of amazing worlds as recommended by the community. This week we’re diving into Novo Amor, Maranga, and Frame of Reference.
As always, we invite you to share your VRChat discoveries with us at tips@uploadvr.com.
Novo Amor
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Let's start out this week by transporting to the serene and welcoming world of Novo Amor. Influenced by and dedicated to the artist Novo Amor, this world offers a relaxing stay at a modern, yet tranquil woodland lodge where creativity is encouraged. Imagine yourself nestled in a lush forest, surrounded by modern, yet cozy architecture. The blend of natural beauty and artistic design in this world creates an atmosphere that invites visitors to not only relax and explore but to lose themselves in this delightful retreat.
Novo Amor also provides numerous places to unwind as well as plenty of other things to do, so whether you’re lounging by the fireplace, exploring the intricately designed interiors, or simply taking in the beauty of nature from the deck, this world is a haven for those seeking a peaceful yet engaging VRChat world to visit.
Next, we’ll venture into the large tropical otherworldly pleasure garden known as Maranga. This expansive world is a feast for the senses, offering a plethora of activities set against a backdrop of beautifully detailed environments.
Take a stroll with friends through vibrant gardens, engage in a game of life-sized chess, or climb surreal structures that challenge your perception of reality. And if you’re in the mood for a swim, the oceans of Maranga provide a refreshing escape.
This world has received a number of nominations from Raindance Immersive, which speaks to the level of artistic detail and creativity that Maranga delivers.
For our final destination this week we check out the thrilling and sometimes spooky world of Frame of Reference. Frame of Reference captivates with its models, animations, and VFX, creating an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression. As you step into the gates of Haunted Kingdom, the eerie ambiance and meticulous design draw you into a world of suspense and excitement where you will relive some hauntingly familiar scenes. If you are a fan of the trippy, weird and sometimes spooky side of VR then Frame of Reference is for sure a world in VRChat you don't want to miss.
That’s it for this week but stay tuned as our exploration of VRChat continues. Next time we’ll take a trip back to the days when movie rental stores and arcades were the place to be in77077 Arcade & Bar, learn about the wonders of our celestial neighborhood in Niko's Solar System and enter the trippy official virtual world of Oxymore from Jean-Michel Jarre where a new concert starts every hour, so until then, keep exploring and happy world-hopping!
Be sure to check out the other articles in this series:
As we continue our journey this week across the vast and creative landscape of VRChat, we're back to bring you another selection of mesmerizing worlds recommended by the community. This time, we’re diving into Astral Bounds, The Edge, and Magnetize—each offering its own unique, immersive experience that you won't want to miss.
As always, we invite you to share your VRChat discoveries with us at tips@uploadvr.com.
Magnetize
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Let's start out this week by transporting to the nostalgic and interactive world of Magnetize. Awarded Best Immersive World at Raindance Immersive 2023, Magnetize combines surreal visuals with a touch of nostalgia. This one is a bit hard to describe, so we'll leave that to the creator here:
“The air is thick with the scent of mothballs and old books․ Sparse trinkets and treasures fill shelves and the old TV emits a familiar tone․ You trace wires down to a game console then notice a comically oversized magnet sitting nearby․ No doubt part of an old science kit․ That TV needs to be replaced anyway‚ why not have some photoelectric fun while you’re here?”
Magnetize thrives on novel interactions and immersive ambience. The creator of this world delved deep into how magnets affect tube TVs, crafting a world where you can have some fun with simulated magnetic fields while reminiscing about the sciences of decades past making Magnetize a fascinating blend of science and nostalgia that curious virtual travelers will for sure want to experience for themselves.
For our next stop, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant, neon-drenched world of The Edge. It’s like stepping inside an advanced music visualizer reminiscent of those classic scenes from the once popular Milkdrop for Winamp, where the interplay of neon-like particles and strings against an inky black background creates a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
The Edge stands out for its captivating auditory and visual synchronization, offering visitors a stunning contrast between light and dark, color and void. It’s a sensory delight that both music and visual art enthusiasts will appreciate. Whether you're there to groove to the beats or simply soak in the electric ambiance, The Edge promises a dynamic and unforgettable experience.
And rounding out this week's adventures we step into the mysterious and expansive world of Astral Bounds, a virtual city designed for true explorers at heart. This place is built around a massive barrier that preserves the last remnants of the edge of the world from being completely consumed by reality. Navigate through a maze of blue doors, ascend towers with intricate pathways, and finally unlock the crystal events that illuminate the sky with stunning light shows and accompanying soundtracks. Whether you’re scaling the Bell Tower or taking shortcuts via the two-way zipline, Astral Bounds offers a deeply engaging experience filled with hidden locations, interactive elements, and endless opportunities for exploration.
That's it for this week's tour but don't forget to come back next week as we explore three more exciting destinations. We'll enjoy a relaxing stay at a modern woodland lodge with plenty of things to do and plenty of places to relax in Novo Amor, spend some time in the large tropical otherworldly pleasure garden of Maranga and then we will end up by taking a trip to a Haunted Kingdom theme park in Frame of Reference, but until then keep exploring and be sure to let us know what amazing worlds you have found in the comments below.
Be sure to check out the other articles in this series:
VRChat continues to captivate virtual travelers with its limitless potential for exploration and creativity. This week, we’re diving deeper into the platform to look at three more compelling worlds as recommended by the VRChat community.
As always, please continue to share your VRChat discoveries with us at tips@uploadvr.com.
Beyond a Bit
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To start off this week we enter the dreamscape world of Beyond a Bit. This world is designed to transport you into a serene environment, where every corner offers a new sense of wonder. The dreamlike atmosphere invites you to take in some truly stunning sights before diving deeper into the world, where at its heart you’ll find an intriguing temple. This structure isn't merely an architectural marvel with amazing scale, it also aims to engage and amaze those who visit its halls. One of its most unique aspects to find here is a key that, when grabbed, unlocks a mesmerizing musical performance. This immersive auditory experience is as fantastic as the world itself. The synchronization of sound and environment enhances the dreamscape atmosphere, making this world feel remarkably wonderous and one that you won't want to miss out on experiencing.
Next up we visit a place where inhabitants can immerse themselves in the mystical and serene world of Namuanki, an ancient aquatic oasis from the distant future inspired by the creator's profound love for the sky, clouds, ocean, and rocks. This world invites you to explore towering rock formations and a vast ocean under the mesmerizing skybox dotted by volumetric clouds that look fantastic. These intricate environments are handcrafted by visionary artist Kevin Mack, who has incorporated his passion for scenic art into every pixel, ensuring that each visitor is enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquility and awe.
As you traverse Namuanki, you'll encounter mystical beings that offer interactive experiences in the form of trippy visions that heighten the sense of connection to this extraordinary digital landscape. Each element of Namuanki , from the ocean’s calming textures to the ice caves, reflects the creator’s background in visual effects and his fascination with both natural and otherworldly settings.
Namuanki provides an emotionally rich and visually stunning experience that curious explorers won’t want to miss so if you haven't already, make sure to bookmark this world, because I have a feeling you're going to want to come back.
For our last stop this week let’s take a stroll through the mystic and tranquil world of Fog Forest, a serene VRChat destination designed to captivate visitors with its ethereal beauty and peaceful atmosphere. As you begin your walk through the dense, fog-covered forest, a quiet stillness embraces you. Here you will find a world offering a perfect sanctuary for contemplative meditation and relaxation. The fog surrounding you creates a dreamy, otherworldly ambiance that softens the landscape, making each tree, rock, and stream feel like it belongs in a fairy tale. This tranquil environment encourages visitors to lose themselves in the soothing sights and sounds of this forest, while strolling along a well-worn path.
As you wander through Fog Forest, keep an eye out for hidden forks just off the main path. These secluded spots offer new perspectives and moments of reflection, presenting a perfect opportunity to sit, relax, and take in the forest from a slightly different angle or to see how far into the dense fog you can venture... Just remember not to get lost!
As we continue our journey through VRChat’s boundless worlds, stay tuned for our next adventure where we delve into the cosmic boundaries of Astral Bounds, immerse ourselves in the dynamic and vibrant spectacle of The Edge, and explore the nostalgic and magnetically charged curiosities of Magnetize. Until then, keep exploring and happy world-hopping!
Be sure to check out the other articles in this series:
The PC version of VRChat now natively supports hand tracking, via the SteamVR Skeletal Input system.
The VRChat standalone app on the Quest Store has supported hand tracking since late 2022. But of course, the best way to experience VRChat is via a gaming PC. You see higher-quality versions of most avatars and worlds, and get access to PC-only avatars and worlds that go far beyond what's possible on mobile.
With the latest version of VRChat you can now use hand tracking on PC too, including the finger gesture control system originally designed for Quest.
Previously it was possible to use hand tracking to emulate Valve Index controllers on PC, but this didn't allow for full finger articulation.
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VRChat doesn't use OpenXR yet, so to use hand tracking on PC you'll need software that supports forwarding hand tracking to SteamVR Skeletal Input.
If you have a Meta Quest headset you can do this with the latest beta of Virtual Desktop. If you have an Apple Vision Pro, you can use ALVR. Or with any native PC VR headset, you can use the open-source SteamVR driver for the Leap Motion 2 addon.
A warning though: Virtual Desktop's developer Guy Godin tells UploadVR that his app's current support for this is very much an experimental beta, still in development, and he doesn't consider it stable enough for general use.
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VRChat on PC getting this hand tracking support should enable a significant leap in expressivity, and even expand the range of sign language signs able to be signed. Combined with the platform's support for eye tracking, face tracking, and body tracking, VRChat can now (in beta at least) deliver a deeper sense of social presence than almost any other widely available technology.
Search your favorite immersive platform's hashtag, and you're guaranteed to spot snapshots of new maps waiting to be visited or the image of a fashionista in a custom avatar. What is all this? It's virtual photography, and it's a popular pursuit in virtual reality.
For those unfamiliar, virtual photography is the act of taking pictures of digital spaces. Photographers have been active in places like Second Life as far back as the mid-2000s; earlier than that, and it's actually the word machinima you'd be using to refer to cinematic works created inside of video games. While the use of machinima is well-established nowadays, in headsets with full embodiment in a simulated landscape, the practice goes full circle back to the one button ease of an instant film camera. With limitless environments available to visit and artists with access to the same post-processing enhancement tools as any other photographer, something new is happening with photography in today's social VR spaces.
To better understand the trend, I contacted four artists over direct messages with questions about how they approach their creations.
Over the years, virtual photography has caught on as a pastime and more pursuable hobby in VR. Why do you think that is, and what drew you to taking photos in virtual reality?
Kosmik: I think VR photography is just eminently more approachable! For the most part, stuff that photographers need to worry about (lighting, makeup, weather, etc.) isn't really a factor in worlds that are always sunny or perfectly moody. There's a certain reliability in it.
Bussan: Many people who spend time virtually feel that the time they spend virtually is more special than the time they spend in real life. (There are many theories about this, but many people around me think so.) In other words, they want to preserve that special time as a photograph.
Eson: I think it's become more pursuable simply for the fact you don't have to go anywhere, you can stay at home and from the safety of your room explore places that you'd never be able to visit otherwise. I got drawn into it as I've always liked taking photos in video games and always wanted to give photography a proper go. To try to stop myself from buying a camera irl, I dived into virtual photography.
Bradlee: I feel like it has drawn more people into it because of the photographers that have been here for years [...] showing beautiful worlds and amazing looking avatars. What brought me in[to photography] was sharing my pictures with friends, showing off all these wonderful places that you can go to.
Bradlee's photography is primarily focused on the tourism aspect, showing worlds as they are. World: Shrine unfinished by The_Heavynator in VRChat. (Photo courtesy of Bradlee101)
What’s something you wish VR platforms would consider when creating a camera system? What’s the one feature camera systems absolutely need?
Bussan: What VR platforms should consider when developing a camera system is the operability of the camera; it is not easy to operate the camera using a VR controller, and it is not always easy to explain its operation to others.
Eson: The problem is most platforms have a very basic camera, and it's usually through mods or prefabs users have created that give you the features that you want to actually play with. However, I would love to have a burst mode, as currently in VRChat there is a delay for when you can take another photo.
Bradlee: Honestly pretty much anything that a modern-day camera can do. Being able to have those [physical-world] functions makes it so much easier to take good shots.
Kosmik: Currently, VRChat could really use a method to fly the camera around in portrait mode! I use VRCLens, so it's not that big of an ask. I would definitely like a way to take photos in different aspect ratios more easily. It would also be nice if all the features from different prefabs (Integral, FlexFisheye) could be integrated into one.
Eson's photography utilizes soft shots for deeply personal portraits. (Image courtesy of Eson)
If you color-correct or edit your photos afterwards, what does it bring to your work? Why do you choose to edit photos in this way?
Eson: When I take a photo, I usually have an idea or a feeling in mind for the photo in the moment that I'm taking it, and I use editing to help portray the shot how I envisioned it. I do it like this simply because it's how I taught myself to be creative. I'm self taught in regards to photography and editing, and have spent quite a bit of time studying other people and their work. But, I've found it to be more creatively satisfying to follow how I feel.
Bradlee: I have barely edited any of my photos, but the ones where I have, you can draw more of a focus towards something or make something look a little more pleasing.
Kosmik: Often the raw photo doesn't quite match the picture I took in my mind's eye, so I edit them to bring them closer to how I felt when I saw it for the first time. When I was learning about photography, I came across this quote that resonated with me: "Photography captures moments, but editing captures the photographer's mood." I've been fortunate to meet many fellow VR Photographers, all of whom bring such a multitude of visions and interpretations of the same worlds.
Bussan: Post-shoot editing brings a definite identity and character to my work. I often add a rather blue or purplish coloring to the photos I have taken, or add light. I may also add depth of field later. I also add damage effects when compositing avatars into real photos, as if they were taken with an instant camera. Photography is a hobby that anyone can take pictures of, so I try to add my own characteristics as much as possible.
Bussan's reality-blending photography is just one aspect of how virtual photos can be pushed to the limit. (Photo courtesy of Bussan)
Some photographers like to take photos of VR settings as they are, while some prefer to take a more surreal edit with what they see. Where do you see yourself on the spectrum as a photographer?
Bradlee: I like to take the pictures for what they are, because I like people being able to see exactly what they're getting into.
Kosmik: When I started I hewed closer to the first - I used to work in a newspaper, so the idea of journalistic integrity (i.e. giving people a more accurate picture of what they'll see when they get there, not a false impression) stuck with me. For world photos, I'll do minor color correction and slight enhancement to make the colors pop a little more, but I try not to go further than that. However, for my avatar and portrait shots, they're avenues for me to practise a little artistic liberty. I'll go for a more dynamic and/or dramatic edit for them.
Bussan: I prefer to add various kinds of processing to the photos after they are taken. I rarely use the photos as they are taken. A photo is an expression of my identity and character. Therefore, I try to take photos that are instantly recognizable as “taken by Bussan".
Eson: I like to do both. There are times where I do what I call "real estate" photography where I want to just show the world as I see it. But I also love to be creative. The longer I've been taking photos and the more my skills have developed, the more I have tried to do shots that I consider surreal/artistic. Both to further develop my skills and just test myself to see what I'm actually capable of.
Kosmik is a fashion photographer who engages with full body posing to snap the perfect photo. (Image courtesy of Kosmik)
If you also take photos of physical places, how do you feel virtual photography has changed your work?
Bussan: I used to take photos for work. If anything, my style of taking photos in reality has influenced my taking photos and videos in VR. However, my characteristic style of “compositing avatars into real-life photos” is definitely a new style influenced by VR, and I believe that this style would not have been created if I had never encountered VR.
Bradlee: I feel like it has changed the way I look at angles for certain pictures. I rarely do so, but [those moments] make me like wonder if I could get a better shot.
Eson: One of my motives for virtual photography was to avoid buying an actual camera, and well, I went out and bought a camera still. Everything I've taught myself by doing virtual photography I've been able to apply to irl. You're able to teach yourself how to actually take a photo in the virtual world and use those skills in the real world. Composition, leading lines, focus points, my editing and even just being able to go out and just take a photo, which is arguably the most important part. Photography has become a big hobby of mine, and a major part of my daily life, both virtual and irl.
Kosmik: I didn't really do any irl photography before I started on VR Photography. However doing VR Photography has actually made me want to pick up irl photography, so this question is kind of the opposite for me!
Virtual photography can be anything from portraits, to images of worlds, to close-up details of digital foliage. (Images courtesy of K. Guillory)
Getting Started With Virtual Photography
Like any creative pursuit, photography is a personal journey. All you need is a camera and the desire to photograph something. Don't think too hard about what you want to accomplish with your photography. Go out, take a picture of something, and let your preferences guide you. Here are some additional tips to consider:
Photograph what you love. Don't invest in a photography subject that doesn't keep you interested. It's okay to change your mind about a chosen theme or style, as long as what you're doing makes you happy.
Follow your curiosity. Don't ask yourself if other people are taking photos of something you want to photograph. Go for it anyway.
Editing programs can help. Layering textures and color gradients can make your photos more interesting. You can use all kind of photo programs to do this, including simpler ones like Prequel. If you're ready for a more advanced editor, try GIMP.
Keep a physical copy. Don't always put stock in digital storage to keep your photos alive. Print them out and put them in a scrapbook. Memories are memories, regardless of whether they're formed in the digital or physical world. You might find that printing your photos enhances your enjoyment of the process.
If you sell prints, be sure to get permission if necessary. Selling photography of various worlds you've snapped photos of can quickly run into a copyright problem. Always let the world owner know what you're doing so you remain in the clear. If you want to avoid this issue altogether, consider building worlds for yourself and then taking creative photos of them.
The upcoming Meta Avatars graphics overhaul is being tested by Meta employees.
VR enthusiast Luna has spotted that some Meta employees' Horizon profiles show a completely different avatar style to the current Meta Avatars, and provided UploadVR with links to independently confirm this.
The upcoming overhaul was first announced with a CGI mockup by Mark Zuckerberg at Meta Connect 2022 almost two years ago. At the time he said it was coming in 2023, but that obviously didn't pan out.
Current Meta Avatars, for comparison.
What Meta Avatars did get last year was legs, in Horizon Home and Horizon Worlds at least, a significant update given they had previously been widely ridiculed for only including an upper body.
The SDK for third-party apps got legs too in December, but they currently aren't animated so developers would have to implement this manually, an arduous task none have yet undertaken.
VRChat offers an endless array of adventures crafted by talented creators who constantly push the boundaries of virtual reality. This week, we're diving into three more PC VRChat worlds as recommended to us by the VRChat community, so let's explore what awaits.
As always, we encourage you to share your VRChat discoveries with us at tips@uploadvr.com.
Magic Heist
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Get ready to delve into the depths of an enchanted academy with Magic Heist. This thrilling adventure ride propels you through the ancient halls of a magical institution now under the grip of a mysterious evil force. Magic Heist combines fast-paced action with fantasy elements to create a dynamic and immersive experience delivering a captivating journey that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With a 20-minute runtime and a design geared for multi-player engagement, Magic Heist is a perfect escape for VRChat users equipped with a high-end PCVR setup.
Next, we plunge into the serene depths of Aqua: Oceans of Luma, a breathtaking look at a world that captures the beauty and mystery of an extraterrestrial ocean-like planet. Aqua: Oceans of Luma has explorers navigating a stunning environment that is filled with vibrant colors and amazing visuals that make you feel truly connected to this place. With sea life seemingly swimming through the air and vast shimmering rivers that stretch across beautifully rendered landscapes, it's worth taking a trip to the Oceans of Luma just to experience the otherworldly sights this world delivers.
Our final destination this week is a journey back in time with A Night To Remember - Titanic Survival Experience. This world delivers a hauntingly immersive re-creation of the Titanic’s tragic voyage. Walk the grand decks, marvel at the ship’s opulent interiors, and experience the unfolding historical drama. The effort places you right in the heart of the catastrophe in an emotionally charged experience, transforming a piece of history into a poignant, interactive virtual reality narrative.
As we continue our journey through VRChat’s incredible landscapes, be sure to check back next week for the next three worlds on our path. We’ll be diving into the digital intricacies of Beyond a bit, unraveling the underwater secrets of Namuanki, and getting lost in the haunting beauty of Fog Forest. So, until our next adventure, keep challenging the boundaries of virtual exploration and while you do, don't forget to revisit some of our past VRChat excursions listed below.
Don Hopper
