Drone capture is a technique used to capture high-resolution aerial imagery of an area or asset, which can then be used to generate high quality orthophoto's (maps)
The below 8 steps will help you to get started with capturing drone imagery, to generate quality orthophotos with Birdi.
1. Plan your mapping project
Before you start mapping, it's important to plan your project. This means deciding what you want to map, how you will capture the data, and setting up a mission in Birdi.
2. Choose the right equipment
Make sure you have the right equipment for your mapping project: a drone with a high-resolution camera, or a handheld GPS device.
3. Capture high-quality data
The quality of the data you use will have a significant impact on the accuracy and quality of your orthophoto (map). Make sure to use high-resolution images (proximity to structure) and where possible accurate measurements (Ground Control Points) to create a high-quality model.
4. Capture Nadir Imagery
Nadir imagery means that the camera or sensor is pointed directly at the ground, creating an image that looks as if it was taken from directly overhead. The recommended flight height is around 150-200 feet (or approx 45-60 meters). This flight height will vary depending on the quality of the orthophoto (map) you require and the size of surrounding obstacles.
5. Use the right settings
Depending on your mapping project, you may need to use different settings on your device. For example, you may need to adjust the aperture, shutter speed, or ISO to get the best possible photos.
We recommend starting with the below for standard mapping and processing with Birdi:
All images should be in JPG format
All images must have latitude, longitude, and altitude in the GPS EXIF data
All images should be facing the area of interest.
All images should have significant overlap (70-80% front overlap and 50-60% side overlap)
The flight path should be set up in a single grid format
A KML should be used to bound the flight area. This KML will also be useful during the processing of your orthophoto.
Example of an orthophoto with no KML:
Example of an orthophoto with a KML:
6. Picking the right time to fly
Proper lighting is important for capturing high-quality data, especially for photogrammetry. Use natural lighting to avoid overexposure, underexposure, or shadows that can cause inaccuracies in the orthophoto (map). If there is vegetation in your area of interest, it’s preferable to fly during low wind conditions to reduce movement in the vegetation.
7. Be safe & respect privacy
If you're mapping out in the field, it's important to be safe. This means wearing appropriate clothing and footwear and letting someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.
When mapping public spaces, it's important to respect people's privacy. This means not taking photos of people without their permission and not sharing personal information that you may come across while mapping.
It is important you follow all guidelines and requirements set by CASA.
8. Process the data
After you have captured the necessary imagery, it's time to process the data to create the orthophoto. Upload your imagery to your Birdi platform account and ensure that you select orthophoto as an output file.
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