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What is Photogrammetry Software?

G. Wiesen
G. Wiesen

Photogrammetry software is a computer program that allows a user to easily and effectively use two-dimensional (2D) photographs to create three-dimensional (3D) models and textures for use in 3D programs. These types of programs are used in numerous industries, and will often work to create a 3D model that can then be exported out of the software used to create it and imported into another 3D program for further manipulation and use. This can include architectural programs for interior and exterior design, as well as artistic programs used in computer animation. Photogrammetry software is often used in different fields, from architecture and engineering, to geological surveying and film production.

The process known as photogrammetry is the use of a 2D image, typically a photograph, to create real world measurements of the objects captured in the image. It has been used for about as long as photography has been around, and has been made easier with advances to computers and the capabilities of modern software programs. Photogrammetry software is a computer program that allows a user to take a 2D image such as a photograph, and then use that image as the basis for a 3D representation of what is in the image, called a 3D model.

Photogrammetry is the process of constructing maps or scale drawings from aerial photographs or other relevant images.
Photogrammetry is the process of constructing maps or scale drawings from aerial photographs or other relevant images.

This is usually done with input from a user, by plotting out key points on the photograph to give the photogrammetry software a sense of scale and proportion within the image. The photogrammetry software will then use these points as a guide to establish the shape and scale of the object in the image. These points and data can then be used by the program to create a 3D model of the object in the image; this model is typically a wireframe and consists of a plain 3D representation of the object. Some software can also use the source photograph to generate textures for 3D models that are photorealistic and can be directly applied to the model.

The use of photogrammetry software is quite common in a number of different industries, such as architecture, engineering, and film. Through photogrammetry, an architect can take a photograph of a building, then turn that photograph into a 3D model of the building for use in his or her own portfolio or to further expand on for a future project. An engineer could similarly use a photograph of a car to create a 3D model of the car for use in engineering software to run virtual tests and gather data. Photogrammetry is often used in film special effects, since it can allow the user to use photographs of something real to create a 3D model of the object, and then manipulate that model in an artistic program.

Discussion Comments

Markerrag

Talk about specialized! Keep in mind that manipulating images at this level usually requires from top-notch hardware. Your computer might run the software, but it will be a chore to deal with if you don't have the hardware to make using the software efficient. After all, you want to get work done quickly rather than wait for a slow computer with a small amount of ram to shuffle things around, right?

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    • Photogrammetry is the process of constructing maps or scale drawings from aerial photographs or other relevant images.
      By: Paco Ayala
      Photogrammetry is the process of constructing maps or scale drawings from aerial photographs or other relevant images.