The 3D view in Birdi lets you see your site in three dimensions. You can explore a 3D model, a point cloud, or your orthomosaic draped over your elevation layer (DEM). You don’t need a 3D model to use it.
Available on plans that include 3D.
The 3D view supports:
3D models (textured mesh)
Point clouds, including large LAS and LAZ files
Orthomosaics and other raster layers draped over a DEM
Annotations, which sync between 2D and 3D
When to use the 3D view
To understand height, slope and shape in a way a flat map can’t show
To check structures, stockpiles, buildings and vegetation from any angle
To show a site to stakeholders who aren’t used to reading 2D maps
To find the drone photos that captured a specific spot, using Pic to Point
Step-by-step: viewing your map in 3D
1. Open your map
Open the map you want to view from your workspace.
2. Switch to 3D
Click 3D in the view bar at the bottom of the screen. You can also press 3 on your keyboard.
To go back, click 2D.
If your map has a 3D model, it opens first. The camera starts above your model or point cloud at its true height.
3. Choose your 3D source
The 3D Source panel sits above the Layers panel. Open the drop-down to choose what you see in 3D:
Model: your 3D models and point clouds, such as Point Cloud, Model or an uploaded 3D model
Raster: an orthomosaic, DSM, hillshade or DTM, draped over your elevation layer (DEM)
Tip: No 3D model on your map? Choose your Orthomosaic under Raster to see your site in 3D using its elevation data.
4. Wait for your layers to load
A loading indicator shows while your 3D data comes in. Each layer in the Layers panel shows a spinner until it’s ready. Most 3D views load in seconds.
5. Move around your site
Zoom: Scroll with your mouse or trackpad.
Move: Click and drag to move across the site.
Tilt and rotate: Hold ctrl or command, then click and drag to change your viewing angle.
Reset the view: Click the Zoom to fit icon in the Layers panel to return to the full extent.
Sharing your map in 3D
Public share links open in 3D too, as long as the map owner’s plan includes 3D.
Best practice tips
Request a 3D Point Cloud and Textured Mesh when you order processing if you want a full 3D model.
If your 3D view looks flat, check that your map has an elevation layer (DSM or DTM).
Use Split to compare 2D and 3D side by side. [CONFIRM] Is this what Split does?
For large point clouds, see our point cloud guide below.