- What are some of the ways that computer vision differs from human vision?
When compared to human vision, computer vision is much simpler. The reading discusses a few methods that are used to accomplish computer vision; however, the computer can’t tell the difference between a person/living creature and an inanimate object placed in its view. In comparison, human vision uses a complex system of nerves, sensors, signals, and communication between our brain and eyes, allowing us to see in much greater detail than a computer, as we are able to see in much greater detail, allowing us to more easily distinguish the objects we are looking at, as well as things like color and distance.
- What are some techniques we can use to help the computer see / track what we’re interested in?
In the reading, the author mentions three main methods for computer vision: frame differencing, background subtraction, and brightness thresholding. Frame differencing locates items by detecting their movements. Background subtraction uses pixels to identify objects based on differences in an established background. Lastly, brightness thresholding uses differences in luminosity to distinguish between people and objects in the foreground vs the background.
- How do you think computer vision’s capacity for tracking and surveillance affects its use in interactive art?
I think the inclusion of computer vision in interactive art allows for many creative ideas to come to life, but it could also raise a lot of concerns for privacy, especially when a piece may be on display. For audiences, they may be worried about where recordings or images are being captured and where those recordings are going. On the other hand, having computer vision as a tool for creativity opens the doors for all kinds of projects and adds a really interesting kind of interaction to art, where the audience is not only interacting with something by clicking some buttons but rather they can interact through body movements, allowing them to really feel immersed in the work.