Drone Photogrammetry:

1. DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2

Credit: DJI

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2 is a go-to option for professional aerial photography and videography, and a solid choice for photogrammetry. It’s no longer the newest model on the market—it came out in 2020—but it’s still a dependable, trusted drone that can do reliable work.

Specs:

• Flight time. 30 minutes.
• Weight. 3 pounds (1.4 kilograms).
• Transmission range. Up to 6.2 miles (10,000 meters).
• Speed. Up to 45 mph (20 m/s).
• Camera. 1” 20MP CMOS sensor with 84° FOV, shoots video at 4K at 30fps.

Learn more about the DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.

2. DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise

Credit: DJI

The DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise stands out as a top-tier photogrammetry drone that’s a strong option for commercial and industrial tasks.

Specs:

• Flight time. 45 minutes.
• Weight. 2.3 pounds (1 kilogram).
• Transmission range. 20 miles (32 kilometers).
• Speed. 42 mph (19m/s) in S-Mode, 33.5 mph (15m/s) in N-Mode.
• Cameras. Comes with a Hasselblad camera that captures 20MP stills and 4K videos at 30fps and a telephoto camera.
• RTK module. Supports centimeter-level precision for photogrammetry missions.

Learn more about the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise.

3. Parrot ANAFI

Credit: Parrot

The Parrot ANAFI stands out as a lightweight, professional-grade drone tailored for applications like surveying, mapping, and inspection.

Specs:

• Flight time. 32 minutes (30 minutes with Microhard mounted).
• Transmission range. 3.1 miles (5 km).
• Speed. 33.5 mph (15 m/s).
• Weight. 2 pounds (915 grams).
• Camera. 1/2.4″ CMOS sensor with an 84° FOV that shoots still at 21M pixels and video at 4K/FHD/HD.
• Unique features. 180° tilt gimbal, 3x digital zoom for enhanced detail capture.

Learn more about the Parrot ANAFI.

4. Yuneec Typhoon H Plus

Credit: Yuneec

The Yuneec Typhoon H Plus is a drone tailored for photogrammetry that carries a high-resolution camera stabilized by a 3-axis gimbal.

Specs:

• Flight time. 28 minutes.
• Transmission range. 1 mile (1.6 km).
• Weight. 3.6 pounds (1.6 kilograms).
• Speed. 30 mph (13.4 m/s).
• Camera. 1″ CMOS sensor with 91° FOV that shoots stills at 20 MP and video in 4K at 60fps.

Learn more about the Yuneec Typhoon H Plus.

5. DJI Matrice 300 RTK + Zenmuse P1

Credit: DJI

The DJI Matrice 300 RTK paired with Zenmuse P1 is a top-tier photogrammetry drone. The M300 integrates cutting-edge camera technology with advanced flight features, providing high-precision data for diverse applications like agriculture, forestry, and environmental studies.

Specs:

• Flight time. 55 minutes.
• Transmission range. 9 miles (14.5 km).
• Speed. 51.5 mph (23 m/s) in S-Mode and 38 mph (17 m/s) in P-Mode.
• Weight. 8 pounds (3.6 kilograms).
• Zenmuse P1 camera. High-quality imaging with a 45-megapixel full-frame sensor.

Learn more about the DJI Matrice 300 RTK + Zenmuse P1.

Photogrammetry is the act of obtaining precise measurements from photographs. The output from doing photogrammetry is a 3D model of an area or object of interest.

To do photogrammetry, you have to take several overlapping photos of the place or thing you want to model, then process those photos using specialized software to convert them into a 3D map.

Credit: DJI

There are two basic types of photogrammetry:

• Aerial Photogrammetry. This type of photogrammetry uses images shot from the air. It’s ideal for large projects, where an aerial perspective is key for capturing the entire area or object of interest. In the past, aerial photogrammetry was done with a crewed aircraft, like a helicopter or an airplane, but now it’s usually performed by drone.
• Terrestrial Photogrammetry. This type of photogrammetry uses images shot on the ground. It can be limited for large projects, since you have to walk the entire area you want to map. This approach is ideal for smaller subjects like buildings, structures, film sets, and mines.

Of course, this guide is focused on the first of these two—aerial photogrammetry performed by drone.

In drone photogrammetry, a drone captures high-resolution aerial images, which are then processed by photogrammetry software to become accurate, detailed 3D models and maps.

In processing, the software identifies common points called “tie points” in the overlapping sections of each image.

By analyzing the slight differences in these tie points’ positions from one photo to the next, the software can deduce the depth or elevation of those points. Essentially, it triangulates the 3D position of each tie point using its 2D positions based on multiple photos.

The result is a dense “point cloud” that represents the area covered in the photos, rendered in three dimensions.

Credit: Pix4D

This point cloud can be further processed to create various outputs, such as Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), Digital Surface Models (DSMs), and orthomosaics. (An orthomosaic is a georeferenced image where distortions due to camera tilt and topography are corrected, making it true to scale.)

Drone photogrammetry can also be used to create textured 3D models, which can be useful in industries like construction, archaeology, and even gaming. These models are a visual representation of an area or object, like a building, complete with textures derived from the photos, making them appear realistic.

Drone photogrammetry is commonly used in several industries these days.

Here are some of the top ones.

1. Agriculture and Farming

Farmers and agronomists are using drone photogrammetry to monitor crops, assess health, and optimize yields.

By creating detailed 3D maps, farmers can detect issues like poor drainage, pest infestations, or areas of low fertility. And by analyzing crops at various stages, farmers can make informed decisions about irrigation, fertilization, and harvesting.

2. Construction

In construction, drone photogrammetry can help with site planning, monitoring progress, and ensuring that projects remain on schedule.

Detailed 3D models provide stakeholders with a clear view of the terrain and existing structures, helping to design and place new constructions.

3. Real Estate

In real estate, aerial visuals can provide potential buyers with a view of an entire property, proving especially valuable for larger estates or buildings, or in cases where prospective buyers aren’t able to visit the property in person.

Credit: Pix4D

3. Archaeology and Historic Preservation

Historians and archaeologists have been using drone photogrammetry to document and preserve ancient sites for a while now.

The technique offers a non-invasive way to study areas of interest, creating detailed models that can be analyzed without physically disturbing the site—a consideration that’s especially important for sites that are deteriorating or at risk of damage.

4. Mining and Quarrying

By regularly mapping a mine or quarry with drone photogrammetry, operators can track changes, calculate volumes, and plan extractions more safely and efficiently. Drone data can also help optimize the extraction processes, monitor equipment, and ensure worker safety.

5. Environmental Monitoring and Conservation

Environmentalists can use drone photogrammetry for a range of purposes, from mapping erosion on coastlines to tracking deforestation in remote jungles. The detailed data you get from drone imagery can help with monitoring a variety of sensitive ecosystems, understanding changes, and planning conservation efforts more effectively.

6. Disaster Response and Management

In the aftermath of natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes, swift response is crucial. Drone photogrammetry provides emergency responders with up-to-date 3D maps of impacted areas, helping to coordinate relief efforts, assessing damage, and planning recovery operations.

Credit: nearmap

Want to do a drone photogrammetry survey?

Here’s the step-by-step process you can follow to get started.

Credit: Pix4D

1. Preliminary Site Assessment

Start by evaluating the area you want to survey.

A thorough evaluation will include:

• Identifying potential obstacles to your flight path
• Understanding the topography
• Setting goals for your survey

Taking this preliminary step will help ensure that you’re prepared, reducing the chances of issues during the actual data collection flight.

2. Choosing the Right Equipment

Based on the size of the area, resolution needed for the survey, and environmental conditions, choose a drone and camera that will allow you to accomplish your goals.

To guide you, jump up to see our picks for the best photogrammetry drones.

3. Plan Your Flight Path

Using drone mapping software, create a flight path that provides ample overlap between shots.

Typically, a 60-80% overlap is recommended for photogrammetry to make sure you get both enough detail and enough data to make your 3D map comprehensive.

4. Set Up Ground Control Points (GCPs)*

Place visible markers in the survey area that can be easily identified in the drone images. These GCPs will aid in calibrating and aligning the captured data, ensuring accuracy in the final model.

*Note: Not all drones require GCPs. Some drones, like the WingtraOne Gen II, don’t need them—make sure to check your drone’s specs to see whether GCPs are recommended.

5. Conduct the Flight

Fly the drone following the pre-defined path. Maintain a steady speed and altitude, ensuring that images are captured at regular intervals.

As you fly, make sure to monitor the drone’s battery, keep it in your line of sight, and adjust the flight path if faced with unexpected obstacles.

6. Data Processing

Once you’ve captured all the images you need, use photogrammetry software to stitch the images together. The right software will allow you to turn your visual data into a detailed and accurate 3D model of the survey area.

7. Review and Refine Your Outputs

Examine the 3D  model your software has generated for any inconsistencies or gaps in data. Refine the model using the software tools and, if needed, consider revisiting the site for additional data capture.

8. Final Presentation and Delivery

Once you’re satisfied with the quality and accuracy of your 3D model, it can be presented in various formats depending on what you want—digital maps, 3D printed models, or interactive visual presentations are all ways that your data might be shared with others.

Want to learn more about drone surveying? Check out our in-depth guide.

An orthomosaic made with drone photogrammetry | Credit: Pix4D

Things to Keep in Mind for Drone Photogrammetry

• Overlapping images. It’s important that your drone captures overlapping images to provide multiple perspectives of the same spot on the ground.Think of it as capturing the same point from two different angles, much like how our two eyes perceive depth.
• Flight pattern. Some drones allow you to use preset flight patterns to make sure you get enough high resolution overlapping images for your 3D model. If your drone can’t fly like this automatically using a preset mode, make sure you’ve thought out your flight path so you get enough overlapping images to make your 3D model.
• Altitude matters. Remember—the farther you are from the ground, the lower your resolution will be, and vice versa. Flying high can allow you to cover an area more quickly, but that speed will come at the cost of lower quality. This is why altitude is an important consideration when planning a photogrammetry mission with a drone.
• Processing. The quality of your final result will be determined not just by the quality of the data you collect, but also by the quality of the software you use. (Jump down to a section on drone photogrammetry software for some ideas on what’s out there.)
• Lighting. Aim for midday flights with vertical sunlight for clear images, and avoid early and late-day flights to minimize horizontal shadows.

Camera Angles—Nadir vs. Oblique

• Nadir imagery. A nadir camera angle means the camera is perpendicular to the ground. Nadir imagery is best for flat terrains.
• Oblique imagery. An oblique camera angle means the camera is angled rather than perpendicular. Oblique imagery is ideal for modeling vertical structures.

When you’re first getting started with drone photogrammetry, it’s a good practice to capture imagery using both camera angles to ensure comprehensive coverage for your 3D modeling.

As your expertise grows, you’ll be able to choose when to use nadir or oblique angles exclusively.

Photogrammetry isn’t new. For years, experts have used it to document structures, create topographical maps, and survey large areas of land.

But the advent of relatively inexpensive drone technology has helped make photogrammetry available to a much larger group of people, bringing with it an array of advantages.

Here are the top eight benefits drone photogrammetry provides over traditional methods.

1. It’s Cheaper

Traditional aerial photogrammetry often involves hiring aircrafts, which can be prohibitively expensive. And traditional terrestrial photogrammetry can be very time-consuming, another factor that can drive up the cost of an operation.

Drones, on the other hand, have become increasingly affordable, and their operational costs are significantly lower, making them an accessible tool for photogrammetry projects of all sizes.

2. It’s Faster

Drones can be deployed rapidly and can cover large areas in a relatively short time. Whereas traditional ground-based surveys might take days or even weeks to cover a large area, drones can capture data in the same area in a fraction of the time.

This speed is especially helpful for time-sensitive projects. Additionally, you can process visual data collected by drone quickly, providing actionable insights in a fraction of the time that traditional methods might require.

3. It’s Safer

Traditional ground-based surveying, especially in challenging terrains or hazardous areas, can pose risks to surveyors.

Drones eliminate the need for people to put themselves in potentially dangerous areas by allowing you to collect all the data you need remotely, thus ensuring safety and minimizing liabilities.

4. It’s (Often) More Detailed

Drones can fly at lower altitudes compared to larger aircrafts, capturing images with incredible detail. This capability is important for use cases that require precise measurements or high-definition visuals.

5. It’s Flexible

Traditional methods might be restricted by factors like difficult terrains or accessibility issues. Drones can simply fly over these obstacles, ensuring comprehensive data collection even in hard-to-reach or hazardous locations.

Also, drone-collected data seamlessly integrates with contemporary GIS (Geographical Information Systems) and CAD (Computer-Aided Design) tools. These integrations ensure smooth workflows and the capability to generate diverse outputs, from 3D models to contour maps.

6. It’s Done in Real Time

Most professional drones offer real-time data transmission, allowing for immediate assessment and decision-making. This real-time data can be invaluable in scenarios like construction monitoring or inspections, where on-the-spot input might be required to ensure you get the data you need.

7. It’s Better for the Environment

Ground-based survey methods, especially in pristine ecosystems, can disturb the environment. Drones, by contrast, provide a non-intrusive means to gather data without leaving a significant footprint.

8. It’s Scalable

Drones can be employed for a diverse range of projects, from small plots of land to vast landscapes. Their scalability ensures that they can cater to different project scopes without the need for significant adjustments in methodology.

You can make 3D models using drones with photogrammetry or with LiDAR—so which one is better?

The answer is: it depends. While both options can be used to create high-resolution 3D models, they use different methods and offer unique advantages and challenges.

On one hand, photogrammetry is good for creating visually rich 3D models. And on the other, LiDAR stands out in terms of precision and versatility, especially in challenging, obscured terrain, like areas covered by forest canopy.

Below, we’ll compare the two approaches to help you navigate the decision and choose the right one for your needs.

1. Comparing Methodologies

3D models made with drone photogrammetry require you to capture multiple overlapping images of a site from various angles using a drone-mounted camera. These images are then processed and stitched together with specialized software to generate a detailed 3D model.

3D models made with drone LiDAR use laser pulses to measure distances between the sensor and the ground or other targets using a drone-mounted LiDAR sensor. While the drone flies, the LiDAR sensor sends out thousands of laser pulses every second. By measuring the time it takes for each pulse to return, the sensor calculates precise distances, creating a dense point cloud that can be converted into a 3D model. (To understand the approach, think of how sonar works, but with LiDAR using laser pulses instead of sound waves.)

A LiDAR scan from DJI | Credit: DJI

2. Advantages and Strengths of Each

Drone Photogrammetry

• Visual appeal. Photogrammetry delivers high-resolution, true-color 3D models that are visually rich and detailed.
• Cost. Drone photogrammetry is generally much less expensive than drone LiDAR because it can be done with a visual camera, which is a lot less expensive than a LiDAR sensor. Also, the options for professional drones that carry LiDAR sensors are generally more limited and more expensive than the options for drones that can perform photogrammetry.
• Simplicity. With modern software, processing images and generating models using photogrammetry is relatively straightforward.

LiDAR

• Challenging conditions. LiDAR can penetrate vegetation, allowing it to make accurate 3D models in forested or other covered areas where photogrammetry might not work at all.
• High precision. LiDAR generally offers higher precision and can capture more detailed topographical features.
• Versatility. LiDAR works effectively in low-light conditions or even darkness, as it relies on its own light source (lasers) rather than ambient light, like photogrammetry.

3. Limitations of Each Approach

Drone Photogrammetry

• Terrain constraints. Dense forests or extremely varied terrains can lead to shadows or inadequate data capture for professional outputs.
• Light dependence. Effective photogrammetry requires good lighting conditions to capture clear images.

LiDAR

• Cost. High-quality drone LiDAR systems can be significantly more expensive than drone photogrammetry.
• Complexity. Processing LiDAR data and converting it into usable 3D models can require specialized software and expertise (though this is starting to change).

4. Ideal Use Cases

Drone photogrammetry is best for projects like real estate development visualization, archaeological site documentation, or any scenario where visual detail is paramount.

Drone LiDAR is best for projects requiring high precision, such as flood modeling, forest canopy studies, or urban planning in areas with significant vegetation cover.

As you can see, the choice between drone photogrammetry and drone LiDAR depends largely on the project’s requirements, budget, and desired output.

We recommend you do your research, consider the needs of your project and your budget, and reach out to colleagues or trusted advisors to see what they’re doing for use cases similar to yours.

There are several different software providers out there that support drone photogrammetry. Below is our list of just a few of the top options on the market.

Please note that this list isn’t meant to be exhaustive—to learn more about drone photogrammetry software, check out our in-depth guide on the subject.

Pix4D—Top Tier Option

Credit: Pix4D

Pix4D is one of the most highly regarded software vendors in the drone industry. The company makes several solutions targeting different types of drone use cases and data manipulation needs.

Pix4D standout software features:

• Simultaneous measurements comparison
• Advanced mesh editing
• Supports the use of 360° cameras for tight spaces and indoor mapping

Industry-specific offerings:

• Pix4Dbim. For daily construction site captures.
• Pix4Dfields. For aerial crop analysis throughout the year.
• Pix4Dag. For precision agriculture.
• Pix4Dmodel. For creating photorealistic 3D models for real estate and renovation.

Learn more on the Pix4D website.

DroneDeploy—User Friendly Mobile Option

A flight plan made on DroneDeploy | Credit: DroneDeploy

DroneDeploy has one of the most user friendly mobile apps on the market for drone photogrammetry. It’s compatible with most drones and is already in use in over 120 countries. The top use cases for DroneDeploy include construction and agriculture.

Here’s how to use DroneDeploy:

• Launch the DroneDeploy app.
• Use GPS to select a survey area.
• Conduct your flight, with the drone auto-capturing images.
• Upload data to the DroneDeploy website to render 2D/3D maps.

Learn more on the DroneDeploy website.

PropellerPPK—Cost-Effective Option

Credit: Propeller Aero

PropellerPPK is a more cost-effective software option when looking for drone photogrammetry software. Construction is the primary use case for PropellerPPK.

Here are some things to note about PropellerPPK:

• The company has partnered with DJI to offer a unique GCP (Ground Control Point) system.
• Its software provides realistic 3D site models suitable for virtual walkthroughs.
• Its software has a seamless Gmail integration for rapid sharing.
• It’s a reliable option that costs less than solutions offered by more enterprise-focused vendors like Pix4D.

Want more information on software for drone photogrammetry? Check out our guide to drone photogrammetry software.