Merry Olde Santa

The 3-D effect has been described in science journals for years, even as early as the mid-1800s, where the phenomenon was described as “the Wallpaper Effect.” Optical researchers have been working with such images for decades, studying how the human eye works. They coined the term “autostereograms.” No special viewing tools are required to see autostereograms, unlike other three-dimensional illusion processes (which require special glasses or viewers).

The process works by repeating regular patterns of randomly placed objects (often called “pixels, ” after the pixels on a television screen). Through a sophisticated computer process, some of these pixels are then rearranged, creating a horizontal displacement. Because the pattern seems to repeat regularly, the brain erroneously interprets separate pixels in the same horizontal line as being part of the same spot on an object. Then each eye notices the different angle required to focus on that part of this imaginary object and interprets the difference as an effect of depth.

How to See the 3-D Images

For beginners, the image is easiest to see if the picture is viewed through shiny clear plastic of glass. Look through the picture by focusing only on a reflection in the shiny covering. The reflection of a light behind you, or even your own reflection, will do. Look at the reflection, then shift your concentration to the picture without changing the focus of your eyes.

▾ Do not focus on the picture. Relax your eyes. It may take a few minutes at first, but once you have seen the image, it
gets much easier and much taster (i.e., seconds) to see it again.

If the above method does not work, then you can try this method:

▾ Position yourself so that your eyes are within a few inches away from the image and find two similar but distinct points about two inches apart on the paper. Place your nose between these two points so that each eye is over one of the points. You should be able to focus your eyes in such a way that the two dots appear as one single dot.

▾ Slowly move away from the image while concentrating on seeing the two dots as one. Shift your concentration from the dots to the picture.

It helps to be patient and relaxed. The image will not come out if you try to force it. Don’t be discouraged it you don’t see it the first time you try, as most people take more than one try!