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Photo-Realistic 3D Models

Photogrammetry 3D Scanning

Transform aerial and ground-based photography into detailed, textured 3D models. From site surveys to heritage preservation, capture reality with true color accuracy.

1cm
Ground Sampling Distance
300+
Photogrammetry Projects
4K
Texture Resolution
RTK
Survey-Grade GPS

What is Photogrammetry?

Photogrammetry is the science of extracting 3D measurements from photographs. By capturing overlapping images from multiple angles, specialized software identifies common features and calculates their precise 3D coordinates.

Unlike laser scanning which measures individual points, photogrammetry generates dense point clouds and photo-realistic textured meshes directly from imagery. This makes it ideal for applications where visual accuracy and texture quality are paramount.

Key Advantages:

  • True-color photo-realistic textures
  • Large area coverage with drones
  • Lower equipment cost vs. LiDAR
  • Ideal for facades and exterior surfaces

How It Works

1

Image Capture

Systematic photography with 60-80% overlap

2

Image Alignment

Feature matching and camera positioning

3

Dense Point Cloud

Millions of 3D points with color data

4

Mesh & Texture

Photorealistic 3D model generation

Photogrammetry Applications

From aerial mapping to detailed artifact scanning, photogrammetry delivers precise 3D models with authentic textures for diverse applications.

Aerial Photogrammetry

Drone-based photogrammetry for large-scale site surveys, topographic mapping, and volumetric calculations. Capture entire sites in hours, not days.

Site topography Stockpile measurement Progress documentation Orthomosaic maps

Close-Range Photogrammetry

Ground-based photogrammetry for detailed object capture. Create museum-quality 3D models with millimeter precision and photo-realistic textures.

Product scanning Artifact digitization Equipment documentation Evidence capture

Heritage & Preservation

Digital preservation of historic buildings, monuments, and cultural sites. Create permanent digital records with authentic textures and colors.

Historic documentation Restoration planning Virtual exhibitions Academic research

Facade & Building Documentation

Capture building facades with true-color accuracy. Generate elevation drawings, identify defects, and document architectural details.

Facade inspection Window surveys Condition assessment As-built elevations

Photogrammetry vs LiDAR Scanning

Understanding when to use photogrammetry versus LiDAR helps ensure optimal results for your project. We often combine both technologies.

Aspect Photogrammetry LiDAR
Color/Texture Photo-realistic color Colorized from photos
Best For Visualization, facades Interior spaces, vegetation
Weather Clear skies needed Works in any light
Accuracy 1-5cm typical 1-3mm typical
Cost Lower equipment cost Higher equipment cost
Processing Compute intensive Faster processing

Not sure which technology is right for your project?

Get Expert Advice

Professional Equipment

We use industry-leading cameras, drones, and processing software for optimal photogrammetry results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about photogrammetry 3D scanning services.

What is photogrammetry 3D scanning?

Photogrammetry 3D scanning creates detailed three-dimensional models by analyzing overlapping photographs taken from multiple angles. Software algorithms detect common features across images and triangulate their 3D positions, generating point clouds and textured meshes. Unlike laser scanning, photogrammetry captures true color and texture from the photographs.

How accurate is photogrammetry scanning?

Photogrammetry accuracy depends on image quality, overlap, and ground control. Drone photogrammetry typically achieves 1-5cm accuracy for mapping applications. With RTK-equipped drones and proper ground control points, we can achieve sub-centimeter accuracy. Close-range photogrammetry with calibrated cameras can reach sub-millimeter precision.

What is the difference between photogrammetry and LiDAR?

Photogrammetry creates 3D models from photographs, capturing true color and texture. LiDAR uses laser pulses to measure distances directly. Photogrammetry excels at exterior surfaces and provides photo-realistic textures. LiDAR works better in low light, through vegetation, and for interior spaces. We often combine both technologies for optimal results.

How long does a photogrammetry project take?

Field capture typically takes 1-4 hours depending on site size. A 10-acre site can be flown in about 2 hours with our drones. Processing time varies by project complexity - a standard site survey takes 24-48 hours, while detailed heritage documentation may take a week for full processing and quality control.

What deliverables do you provide?

We deliver orthomosaic maps (georeferenced aerial images), digital elevation models (DEM/DSM), 3D textured meshes, point clouds, and contour maps. Files are provided in industry-standard formats: GeoTIFF, OBJ, FBX, E57, LAS, and PDF reports. We deliver BIM-conversion-ready point cloud data compatible with Revit, AutoCAD, and other CAD/BIM platforms.

Can photogrammetry scan shiny or reflective surfaces?

Photogrammetry struggles with highly reflective, transparent, or uniformly colored surfaces. Glass, polished metal, and white walls are challenging. For these materials, we use anti-reflective sprays, diffused lighting, or combine photogrammetry with LiDAR scanning. We assess each project and recommend the optimal capture method.

What weather conditions are needed for aerial photogrammetry?

Ideal conditions are overcast skies (even lighting, no harsh shadows), calm winds under 15 mph, and good visibility. We avoid rain, fog, and strong shadows. For projects requiring consistent lighting, we schedule flights during optimal sun angles. Winter surveys benefit from leafless vegetation for ground visibility.

How much does photogrammetry scanning cost?

Pricing depends on site size, required accuracy, and deliverables. A basic aerial survey of a 5-acre site starts around $1,500. Detailed heritage documentation with high-resolution textures may cost $5,000-15,000. We provide detailed quotes after understanding your specific requirements and accuracy needs.

Ready to Capture Your Project in 3D?

Get photo-realistic 3D models with professional photogrammetry services. Contact us for a free consultation and project assessment.

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