The present invention provides a method of processing images including the steps of retrieving a source image file including pixel data, mapping the source image file pixel data into at least one viewable image, mapping the source image file pixel data into at least one representation of one or more dormant properties of the viewable image, and displaying cooperatively the at least one viewable image and the at least one representation of the one or more dormant properties of the viewable image. The representations of the one or more dormant properties of the viewable image may be displayed adjacent to the viewable image, overlaid on the viewable image, and/or the viewable image may be transformed into a representation of the one or more dormant properties of the viewable image, and vice versa. The representations of the one or more dormant properties of the viewable image may include a perspective representation, a compass representation, an unwrapped cylinder representation, a globe representation, or a rear view mirror representation, and the dormant properties may include the panoramic nature of the viewable image, the current viewing direction of the viewable image, and additional view of a surrounding scene, or action occurring in another portion of the surrounding scene. Apparatus for processing images in accordance with the method is also provided.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE COMPUTATION OF PANORAMIC VIEWS AND _PERSPECTIVE PROJECTIONS FROM OMNIDIRECTIONAL IMAGES