Panoraven is basically like Imgur for 360 photos, allowing you to upload and share photos without creating an account. You can also embed uploaded photos on your website or blog using iframe tags. And it’s free (for personal use but not for commercial use). But there are limits you need to be aware of as discussed below.

Uploading to Panoraven is as quick and simple as it is for Imgur. You simply drag a 360 photo into their uploading webpage or by clicking the upload button and selecting the 360 photo.

Here is a sample photo uploaded to Panoraven (shot on Samsung Gear 360 2017). You can also view it as a direct link that can be shared via email, text message or other ways. I think the shadow at the edges of the image is a nice touch.

Panoraven allows creating a slide show (without logging in), like a very simple virtual tour. After uploading a photo, you have the option to add up to 4 more 360 photos (5 total) by clicking on the Edit +/- buttons on the bottom of the upload screen. Panoraven will automatically create an image slider. Here is an example with both photos shot with Kandao Qoocam. You can view the next photo by clicking on the arrows beside the zoom slider on the bottom.

Limitations; Pro account upgrade

Panoraven does have some important limitations to be aware of. Photos can only be up to 5 MB. That rules out DSLR panos or even photos from some consumer 360 cameras. There are also no titles or captions to identify the photos or explain what’s in them.

The most important limit is that if you upload a 360 photo without creating an account, then you will lose control over it. There seems to be no way to delete it or hide it. Anyone who finds the link will see the photo (although uploaded photos are not shown in a public gallery like Imgur). If you upload the wrong photo by accident, your one and only chance to delete it is to hit the “Edit -” button on the bottom in the upload screen. If you navigate away from that, it appears you won’t ever be able to delete the photo.

You do get more control if you create an account. You’ll be able to change the title and erase any photos you uploaded. An account will cost $10/mo (Starter) or $29/mo (Business). There is no free account. To be fair, you will get a faster server, and you’ll be able to add your own branded overlay (with customizable opacity and location).

Summary

As long as you know the limits, Panoraven is a convenient way to share 360 photos or to add them to your site. If you’d like to try out Panoraven, check out their website and try uploading a photo.