3D photogrammetry service

3D photogrammetry

We create 3D models from photographs, from small objects to terrain, buildings and monuments. To learn more, see the Wikipedia article on photogrammetry.

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How 3D photogrammetry works

Photogrammetry rebuilds three-dimensional models from overlapping photographs. Scale, detail and the quality of the result depend on the object's geometry and texture, the capture conditions, the distribution of the images and the presence of dimensional references when measurements are needed. Before the project, we assess whether the method is suitable for the intended application.

Red mechanical part on a table with reference markers for scanning

Services for the industrial, agricultural, civil and cultural sectors

Terrain mapping
Building mapping
Scanning of monuments
Point cloud creation
Point cloud cleaning
Polygonal model creation
Parametric model creation
Elevation maps
Measurement
Examples

3D photogrammetry work and applications

Six angles of a sneaker, among the roughly 190 photographs used in photogrammetry to rebuild it in 3D

Six of the roughly 190 angles photographed of a sneaker to rebuild it in 3D.

Stages of 3D photogrammetry

How it works

Photogrammetry rebuilds the shape of an object or a place from many photographs taken from different positions, with overlap between them. The software identifies the same points across several images and calculates their position in space. The result is a point cloud, which is turned into a 3D mesh with the real texture of the photographs.

Result

What you receive from 3D photogrammetry

Point cloud dense, for measuring and analysis
Textured 3D model, with the real colours of the object or place
Orthophoto: image of the terrain or facade without perspective distortion
Elevation model and elevation maps
Measurements of distances, areas and volumes
Choose

3D photogrammetry or 3D scanner?

Photogrammetry3D scanner
Object sizeLarge or very large (buildings, terrain, monuments)Small to medium, up to a few metres
Colour and textureVery good, with real coloursGood, depending on the equipment
Accuracy on small partsLowerVery high
Equipment on siteCameraScanner and, sometimes, markers

For industrial parts with tight tolerances, the 3D scanner is the best choice. Photogrammetry is unbeatable when the object is large and colour matters.

Applications

Where it applies and what makes the difference

Heritage and culture: recording of monuments, sculpture, archaeological finds
Construction and architecture: survey of facades and existing buildings
Agriculture and land: terrain and elevation maps
Industry: volume inventories, large structures

Quality depends on the overlap between photographs, the light, the resolution and the distance to the surface. To obtain reliable measurements, we use scale references or control points on site. Very smooth, shiny or transparent surfaces are difficult for photogrammetry; we tell you straight away if another technique would suit better.

Process

How we do 3D photogrammetry

01

Capture planning

We define the route and the number of photographs needed.

02

Image collection

Next, we photograph the object or place with controlled overlap.

03

Processing

Then we generate the point cloud and the 3D model in specialised software.

04

Delivery

Polygonal or parametric models, elevation maps and measurements.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Can I use photographs I already have?

In some cases yes, if there is enough overlap and good quality. Send them and we will tell you whether they will do.

What accuracy can I expect?

It depends on the size of the object and the resolution of the images. For projects with measurements, we agree with you the accuracy needed and how to verify it.

Can you photograph a building or a piece of land?

Yes. We plan the capture route and the scale references before going on site.

How long does it take?

The work on site is usually quick; processing depends on the number of images and the quality requested. We state the deadline in the proposal.

Which formats do you deliver?

Point clouds and meshes in common formats (for example OBJ, PLY, LAS), orthophotos as images and measurements as PDF.

Questions? Talk to us

Call us or send us a message and we will reply as quickly as possible.

Request a quote+351 928 204 673