The RICOH THETA 360-degree cameras are an excellent tool for those working in the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. We recently had an interview with New York-based architect and designer, Carol Kurth, on how she uses THETA to showcase her beautiful design projects to clients.

Thank you so much for speaking with us! Can you please introduce yourself?

My name is Carol Kurth, FAIA*, ASID*, principal of Carol Kurth Architects + Interiors based in Bedford, New York. Throughout my award-winning career, I’ve been able to collaborate with clients and my team on design projects near and far. Design is my passion and I am so grateful to do what I love every day!

*FAIA: Fellow of the American Institute of Architects,
 ASID: American Society of Interior Designers

Courtesy of Carol Kurth Architecture + Interiors — Bedford Bunkroom

Thank you so much for introducing yourself! Can you please share how you use 360 photography for your work as an architect and designer?

If you aren’t familiar with 360-degree cameras, they feature two fish-eyed lenses that capture the entire environment around the camera, resulting in lifelike 3-dimensional images. I specifically use RICOH THETA cameras because they are easy-to-use and can capture an entire room with a single press of a button.

One task that I find my THETA cameras useful for is site surveying. Since the cameras allow me to capture an entire room, I’m able to easily document spatial parameters, design elements, artwork, placement, and more. As a project progresses, I can reference my 360 photos to help me recall details of the space without having to trek back to the jobsite – it saves so much time. This also comes in handy if a client wants to make changes or embark on a remodel. I can look back on my finished project images and plan the renovation with those as a guide.

Courtesy of Carol Kurth Architecture + Interiors — Bedford Guest House
(by RICOH360 Tours)

Can you share a bit about which THETA models you are currently using?

The two THETA models that I work with are perfect for interior designers or architects: the THETA SC2 for Business and THETA Z1. If you’re on a budget, the THETA SC2 for Business is a cost effective model that is super simple to use because it features the “Room” preset mode, which automatically adjusts light contrast for optimal shooting in interior spaces. That means that if you’re shooting a room with bright light streaming in through the windows, the camera balances the light for you.

If you’re on the market for something more advanced, the THETA Z1 flagship model offers the highest quality images and video, expanded storage capacity, and customizable shooting modes. This camera is perfect for shooting finished projects. Additionally, RICOH has recently announced their newest camera hitting the market in March 2022, the THETA X, which would also be an excellent choice for business use. It captures the high-quality imagery and video that users know and love from previous THETA models, but features a large touch screen, interchangeable battery, and external memory card making it ideal for a variety of photography levels.

What is your workflow like with THETA?

After all the finishing touches and decor have been made in a space, I use my THETA to showcase the final result. The high-quality, 360 images captured with the THETA Z1 in RAW mode offer the full view of a completed space and its Wi-Fi connectivity makes transferring to your smartphone simple. I typically use the THETA+ app to edit and create cool effects and animations on the photos, and then upload them to social media or incorporate into my businesses’ marketing materials. RICOH also offers a proprietary platform, RICOH360 Tours, where you can create high-quality virtual tours to virtually walk through an entire space and feel like you are right there in the room.

Courtesy of Carol Kurth Architecture + Interiors — Tango House
(by RICOH360 Tours)

Do you use THETA in your personal life to capture content?

Yes! Of course, 360 images benefit my work and help showcase my design projects in the best light from start to finish, but I also enjoy using THETA  in my free time. Their lightweight design makes it easy to bring along while exploring New York City – whether that’s at a tradeshow or visiting a landmark like The Edge. Using the THETA+ editing app allows me to manipulate shots that I capture into dynamic works of art before sharing them with friends and family on social media.

Hudson Yards + The Vessel, NYC

Thank you so much for taking the time for the interview! Do you have anything else to add about your thoughts for THETA?

My final thoughts for THETA are that it’s compact in size and delivers great results! It’s especially great for traveling and capturing the world around you.

For more details, please visit the product page on theta360.com.

You can follow Carol’s exciting 360 degree content in both her work and personal life on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.