Using Camera Input to Determine Axis of Rotation and Navigation

Systems, methods, and computer storage mediums are provided for navigating a virtual camera within a virtual three-dimensional environment using a mobile device. An exemplary method includes receiving, from at least one sensor on the mobile device, an indication that the mobile device has pivoted about a first rotation axis. A change in a user's position in relation to the mobile device is tracked as the mobile device is pivoted about the first rotation axis. A location of the first rotation axis is then determined based on the change in the user's position in relation to the mobile device. When the location of the first rotation axis is proximate to the mobile device, a first action to navigate within the three-dimensional environment is executed. When the location of the first rotation axis is proximate to the user, however, a second action to navigate within the three-dimensional environment is executed.