Getting Started with LIMNTPS

Camera Setup, Documentation & Recovery for Stop-Motion Animation

Welcome to LIMNTPS!

LIMNTPS is a camera setup and recovery application for stop-motion animation, developed by LIMNMEDIA.

It uses the Three-Point System (TPS) to document camera geometry, preserve camera setup information, and generate reference materials that help you reproduce a camera position.

Whether you’re setting up a new shot or preparing to recover an existing one, LIMNTPS helps replace guesswork with measurable reference geometry.

What You’ll Need

Before beginning, prepare:

1. A reference image from your camera setup.
2. Three identifiable, stationary reference points.
3. Measurements of the distances between those points.
4. Camera and lens information.
5. Camera tilt and focus distance information.

You don’t need specialized motion-control equipment.

Step 1 — Import Your Reference Image

Open LIMNTPS and import an image from your camera setup.

LIMNTPS reads available image metadata (EXIF) to help identify camera and lens information.

Review the information and complete any missing details.

Step 2 — Select Three Reference Points

Identify three stationary points visible in your reference image.

These are labeled A, B, and C.

Together, they form your reference triangle.

Choose points that are clearly identifiable and spread across the image. For best results, avoid points that might move during production.

Step 3 — Enter Your Measurements

Measure the physical distances between the three reference points.

Enter the following measurements:

1. AB: Distance from A to B.
2. BC: Distance from B to C.
3. CA: Distance from C to A.

Use consistent measurement units.

LIMNTPS uses these measurements to establish the physical geometry of your reference triangle.

Step 4 — Review Camera Information

Confirm the camera information required for the calculation.

This may include:

1. Camera manufacturer and model.
2. Lens information.
3. Sensor dimensions.
4. Focus distance.
5. Camera tilt.
6. Camera roll, when applicable.

Accurate camera information helps produce useful alignment references.

Step 5 — Calculate Your Camera Geometry

Once the reference points, measurements, and camera information are entered, LIMNTPS calculates the camera geometry.

Review the results and correct any missing or inconsistent information.

Step 6 — Save Your A-Side

Save your original camera setup as your A-Side reference.

The A-Side represents the camera position and reference geometry you want to preserve.

This record becomes the foundation for future camera recovery.

Step 7 — Export Your Setup

LIMNTPS can generate several useful output files:

1. TPS files: Portable camera setup data.
2. Reference overlays: Visual guides for camera alignment.
3. Camera reports: Structured camera and measurement information.

Exported materials can be stored alongside your animation project.

Reference overlays can also be used in compatible workflows, including Dragonframe.

Recovering Your Camera

When you need to reproduce a camera setup:

1. Restore your original reference points.
2. Open your saved TPS information.
3. Position your camera near its original location.
4. Match your original camera and lens settings.
5. Use the reference overlay to guide camera alignment.
6. Adjust your camera until the reference points align.
7. Verify your composition before resuming animation.

Important: LIMNTPS does not automatically reposition your camera. It provides the geometric information and reference materials needed to guide the process.

Tips for Better Results

Choose stable reference points.

Your reference points should remain stationary throughout production. Avoid objects or set elements that may be moved or adjusted.

Spread your reference points apart.

Points that are widely separated and form a well-defined triangle generally provide more useful alignment references than points clustered together.

Measure carefully.

Accurate physical measurements are essential for reliable camera geometry calculations.

Record your camera settings.

Keep track of your camera model, lens, focal length, focus distance, and orientation.

Save your setup before moving anything.

Documenting your original camera position makes future recovery much easier.

Keep your TPS files with your project.

Store exported files alongside your animation footage, camera reports, and production documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Three-Point System?

The Three-Point System is a geometric method for documenting and recovering camera setups.

By identifying three reference points in an image and recording their physical measurements, TPS establishes a geometric reference that can help reproduce a camera’s position and orientation.

Do I need a motion-control camera?

No. LIMNTPS can be used with manually positioned cameras, tripods, camera supports, and motion-control systems.

Does LIMNTPS automatically align my camera?

No. LIMNTPS calculates camera geometry and generates reference materials. You perform the physical camera adjustments.

Does LIMNTPS require an internet connection?

No. LIMNTPS is designed to work offline.

Do I need an account?

No. LIMNTPS does not require an account or cloud service.

Can I share my TPS files?

Yes. TPS files are designed to provide portable camera setup information that can be stored with your project or shared with collaborators.

Need Help?

If you’re experiencing problems with LIMNTPS or have questions about the Three-Point System, we’re happy to help.

LIMNMEDIA Support

Email: [email protected]

Community:  ⁠Join the LIMNMEDIA Discord

Website:  ⁠LIMNMEDIA

You can also explore the  ⁠LIMNMEDIA Stop-Motion Dictionary for additional terminology and technical explanations.

Less guesswork. More animation.

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