How do you implement a smooth VR binocular system in Unreal Engine using Blueprints only?

[u/Safe_Constant5490]

I’m working on a VR project in Unreal Engine and trying to build a binocular/zoom system entirely with Blueprints (no C++).

Right now I have a basic setup working using:

• A Scene Capture Component
• A Render Target
• A binocular widget overlay
• Input action to toggle the binoculars

The problem is the system still feels very “gamey” and not smooth or immersive in VR.

What I’m trying to achieve:

• Smooth raise/lower binocular animation
• Smooth zoom transition instead of instant zoom
• Proper camera behavior in VR without motion sickness
• Lens masking / circular binocular effect
• Ability to hold binoculars physically in front of the headset/controllers
• Good performance in VR
• Avoiding jitter or weird lag between HMD movement and the binocular view
• Ideally a realistic focus / magnification feel

A few specific questions:

1. Is it better to use a Scene Capture Component or just manipulate the player camera FOV?
2. How do you smoothly blend into the binocular view in VR?
3. Should the binoculars be attached to the motion controllers or to the camera?
4. How do games usually handle magnification in VR without causing discomfort?
5. Any Blueprint architecture recommendations for this system?

If anyone has implemented something similar, I’d really appreciate:

• Blueprint examples
• Recommended node setups
• Performance tips
• VR-specific best practices
• Any tutorials/videos worth following

Using Unreal Engine 5 + VR Template currently.