Quickstart

How to Record Egocentric Video

This guide covers recording a first-person video of a task using a head-mounted device like a phone, recording glasses, or GoPro.

Prepare and Mount Your Device

  1. Secure the Mount: Use a head-strap or helmet mount. Make sure it's tight enough that the device doesn't wobble.
  2. Position the Camera: Mount the device horizontally if working with phones (landscape). Position the device close to your head/at your eye level, aimed slightly down toward your work area.
  3. Check Power and Storage: Ensure the device is fully charged and has enough storage.

Set Up the Camera

  1. Clean the Lens: Wipe the lens with a microfiber cloth.
  2. Use a wide view: Pick a zoom or lens setting that captures the whole work area, but not so wide that important objects look tiny. The relevant parts should fill the frame enough to be easy to see and understand.
  3. Use Basic Video Mode: Select the standard video setting. Turn off any portrait modes or filters. If available, turn on video stabilization. (The latest iPhone models have that already pre-activated).
  4. 30 fps is enough.

Frame the Shot and Do a Test

  1. Check the Angle: Have a colleague check the live video feed while you're in your working posture. Adjust the tilt so all important objects are visible. If you are working with glasses, do a test run first and check the video on your phone/device.
  2. Check Lighting: Make sure your work area is evenly lit, avoiding deep shadows or strong backlights. That does not mean that studio light is required - it should display standard operating conditions. Keep in mind that if we, as human, cannot see relevant actions / objects also they AI might face problems at some point. General statement: we saw better model performances and less manual work when video quality was higher.
  3. Record a Test: Film a 30-second test of a key action. Watch it to ensure the process is clear and easy to understand. If not, readjust and test again.

Record the Task

  1. Start Early, End Late: Press record before you begin the first step. Stop recording only after the task is completely finished.
  2. Be Mindful of the View: Work at your normal pace. It's normal for your hands or tools to briefly block the view during a task, but try to keep the main action as visible as possible.
  3. Show What Matters: Ensure the camera is pointed at the relevant parts and tools for the current step. Your hands will naturally move in and out of the frame as you work.