When working on molecular modeling projects, navigating complex molecular structures can be a challenge. If you frequently switch between different views—like moving between a close-up of a specific region and a full structural overview—you’ll love the ability to use multiple cameras within a single document in SAMSON. This capability brings efficiency and ease to molecular exploration.
In SAMSON, each document automatically has at least one camera, but did you know you can add and manage multiple cameras? This is particularly helpful when you want to save and seamlessly toggle between various perspectives of your molecular model. Let’s dive into how to make the most of multiple cameras.
Adding and Activating Cameras
Adding a new camera to your molecular modeling project in SAMSON is simple. Navigate to Visualization > Camera in the menu, and a new camera will be created with a default position. This can be a great starting point for documenting or visualizing specific angles of your model for later use.
However, only one camera can be active at a time. Switching between cameras is quick: simply double-click on a camera in the Document view, or right-click on a camera and select Set as active camera from the context menu. This method allows you to effortlessly adjust your view while maintaining focus on what matters most.
Context Menu Options for Cameras
Right-clicking on a camera in the Document view opens up several context menu options designed to enhance your workflow:
- Center the camera on your selection or on the whole document for precise framing.
- Activate camera inertia for smooth, continuous camera movements—a great way to inspect models with flair.
- Switch to orthographic projection, which is perfect for visualizing crystal structures or grids.
- Set any selected camera as the active one.
- Move and adjust the camera to refine its position in your workspace.
These context menu functionalities offer quick access to commonly used features, saving you time while modeling.
Fine-Tune Camera Properties
For even greater control, you can view and adjust all properties of a selected camera—like positions, projections, and inertia—through the Inspector window. Simply select the desired camera and open the Inspector to customize its settings to suit your needs.
Conclusion
The ability to use and manage multiple cameras within SAMSON allows molecular modelers to streamline their workflow by switching effortlessly between different views. Whether you’re zooming into details or taking in the big picture, multiple cameras provide convenience and versatility.
To learn more, visit the full documentation page here: https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/camera/
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Explore SAMSON for yourself at https://www.samson-connect.net.