This video illustrating ‘differences in perceived speed’ is a fascinating insight into how our brains work

John Plunkett. Updated February 5th, 2020

We have to confess it took a little while to get our heads round this. Actually, we still might be getting our heads round this.

But this video of a view from a train driver’s cab is a fabulous illustration of ‘differences in perceived speed’ and, well, have a watch for yourself.

Differences in perceived speed pic.twitter.com/V42VxQDRZ3

— Akiyoshi Kitaoka (@AkiyoshiKitaoka) February 4, 2020

It’s all relative, right? We think.

Why? Because when one focuses on an inner portion of the movie, the optic flow angular speed is slow, and appears to fill one’s entitle visual field, which is consistent with overall lower forward speed.

— Mark Changizi (@MarkChangizi) February 4, 2020

Note: The more zoomed, the more densely packed the overhead rigging appears. So, even though you appear to be moving forward more slowly when zoomed in, the actual rate of rigging flowing by remains constant, consistent with same forward speed in all conditions.

— Mark Changizi (@MarkChangizi) February 4, 2020

Now we see it. We think.

If you want to emphasize speed, use a wide angle lens. Impressive example: https://t.co/otnyRCFWmo

— entagma (@entagma) February 5, 2020

Great example of how longer lenses compress elements in a scene. https://t.co/6DzidRQHtI

— Paul Conigliaro (@conigs) February 4, 2020

This is really cool. Focal lengths can sure make a difference. https://t.co/En7AIbFQN9

— Preston Kanak (@PrestonKanak) February 4, 2020

We’re with this person.

whoa. https://t.co/NllIDzF68A

— Alister (@alisterrobbie) February 4, 2020

Source Twitter @AkiyoshiKitaoka