Oblique aerial imagery consists of photographs captured at an angle — typically 40-45 degrees from vertical — rather than straight down (nadir). This angled perspective reveals building facades, structural details, roof conditions, and vertical features that nadir-only imagery cannot see.
Nadir vs oblique:
- Nadir (straight down): Captures rooftops and horizontal surfaces. Used to create orthomosaic maps.
- Oblique (angled): Captures building sides, walls, facades. Used for 3D modeling, building inspections, and urban mapping.
Most professional aerial survey missions combine both nadir and oblique captures. The nadir imagery produces accurate orthomosaic maps, while the oblique imagery adds facade detail for complete 3D reconstruction.
Common applications:
- Building facade inspections (FISP compliance in NYC)
- 3D city modeling for urban planning
- Insurance property assessments
- Real estate marketing photography
- Archaeological documentation
Modern drones like the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise and DJI M350 RTK can capture both nadir and oblique angles in a single mission using their adjustable gimbals. THE FUTURE 3D includes oblique capture as part of our drone photogrammetry and aerial survey services.