Drone Maps: From Sky to Ground Truth 🗺️ – Unlocking the Power of Orthomosaic Mapping
Ever dreamed of creating professional-quality maps using your drone? It’s easier than you think! This page dives into the insights from leading YouTube channels, showcasing how to transform your drone footage into precise orthomosaic maps – transforming aerial views into actionable ground truth. We’ll explore everything from selecting the right drone and software to mastering the post-processing workflow. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just starting out, this guide provides the knowledge to take your drone mapping skills to the next level.
Key Takeaways from Top Drone Mapping Videos
Automated Mapping is Easier Than Ever: New tools like Waypointmap.com allow automated mission planning even for drones lacking SDK support, simplifying the process for DJI Mini 4 Pro, Air 3, and Mavic 3 users. This eliminates the need for complex manual flight planning.
Understanding Drone Mapping Essentials: A deep dive into drone mapping reveals crucial aspects like choosing the right drone (considering camera quality, GPS accuracy, and flight time), selecting appropriate software for 2D and 3D mapping, and validating data for accuracy. Factors like Ground Sample Distance (GSD) and the benefits of RTK GPS are highlighted as essential for quality maps.
Free and Commercial Software Options: There’s a range of options available, from free cloud-based platforms like MapsMadeEasy, which processes images from various drones, to professional-grade software like Agisoft Metashape and Pix4D. Open-source options like Meshroom also offer flexibility for those seeking a more hands-on approach.
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Beyond the Software: Hardware and Workflow: The videos emphasize the importance of choosing the correct drone hardware based on the application (fixed-wing for large areas, smaller drones for intricate details). Also covered is the entire workflow: data acquisition, processing, validation and quality control are all crucial steps. Ground Control Points (GCPs) are highlighted as essential for accuracy.
The Future of Drone-Based Mapping: A Rising Tide
The videos clearly demonstrate a democratization of drone mapping technology. Free and user-friendly software, combined with increasingly capable consumer drones, is lowering the barrier to entry for hobbyists and professionals alike. We can expect to see even more intuitive software, improved drone technology (especially in autonomous flight and sensor integration), and perhaps even greater integration with GIS platforms in the future. This trend will only accelerate as the applications of drone-based mapping expand across various fields.
Take Flight with Your Drone Mapping Journey
These YouTube tutorials provide a wealth of knowledge to help you transition from capturing stunning aerial footage to generating accurate and detailed orthomosaic maps. Ready to transform your drone into a powerful mapping tool? Scroll down to check out curated video highlights and begin your journey!
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Cheech & Chong's Up In Smoke Beaker Bong This Cheech & Chong beaker-style water pipe stands 7.25 inches tall with attached downstem and 14mm male bowl. Pipe comes in assorted colors. Officially licensed. Available colors are dependent on current inventory. HIGHLIGHTS 7.25"" tall: Provides a compact yet effective size for easy handling and storage. 14mm female pipe: Ensures compatibility with a variety of accessories. Attached downstem diffuser: Enhances the smoking experience by providing smooth, filtered hits. Beaker style with bent neck: Offers stability and a comfortable smoking angle. Includes 14mm male herb slide: Conveniently allows for the use of dry herbs. Colors vary: Adds a fun element of surprise and individuality to each purchase.
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FINALLY DJI Mini 4 Pro, Mavic 3, and Air 3 Automated 3D Drone Mapping and PhotogrammetryJays Tech Vault146,857 views | 3,348 | December 30 2023 17:00:47 (423 comments)[ Read more … ]
We can finally do automated mapping on DJI drones like the DJI Mini 4 pro, DJI Air 3, and DJI Mavic 3 / 3 pro / classic. Today I show you a free tool to do automated mission planning for free on drones that do not have any sdk support. At last we can finally do automated missions on the newest dji drones. DJI mini 4 pro mapping, DJI mini 4 pro mission planning, and dji mini 4 photogrammetry. DJI Air 3 mapping, DJI Air 3 mission planning, and DJI air 3 photogrammetry. DJI mavic 3 pro mapping, DJI mavic 3 pro mission planning, and DJI mavic 3 pro photogrammetry.
This video will use a tool I made called https://www.waypointmap.com . Its a free online tool that lets you generate automated mapping waypoint missions without SDK support. Allowing users to fly waypoint missions to collect data on the newest drones with the waypoint feature. Everything shown in this video on Waypointmap will be free to use forever. I may add additional premium features but these features will be free to use for everyone. Waypointmap.com is a great tool to use.
I am not affiliated or endorsed by DJI.
0:00 – Intro and Setup
2:42 – RC-N1/N2 w/ Apple Device Setup
3:45 – RC 2 or RC-N1/N2 w/ Android Device Setup
4:32 – DJI RC Setup
5:32 – Usage instructions and final setup
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How to be a Drone Mapping Pro | Deep DiveSteel City Drones115,754 views | 2,939 | March 9 2024 19:07:56 (128 comments)[ Read more … ]
If you want to know more about Drone Mapping & Drone Survey’s this is the ultimate guide for you. Dave King breaks down every element of mapping including which drones to use for 2D & 3D maps, which drone equipment to use for Survey work, and what all the work flow processes to consider for Drone Mapping. We review Drone processing software as well as the validation processes that are essential to make sure the drone data collected is as expected.
02:11 Can I create simple 2D or 3D maps easily with my own drone?
02:32 What is Drone Photogrammetry?
02:54 Survey grade accuracy versus Consumer Grade accuracy
04:38 Why some drone cameras are not ideal mapping
06:13 Benefits of RTK GPS
07:00 Benefits of Drone Terrain Following
07:25 What is Ground Sample Distance
08:07 Why Validating the Drone Data is so important
08:50 Introduction to Survey Base stations and why they need reference GEO data
10:14 What is and how to calibrate recorded Rinex data
10:47 Introduction to Drone Ground Control Points
11:44 Recommended practices for GPC’s and cost breakdown
12:18 Difference between Survey base and rovers
13:17 What are Check Points for mapping?
14:30 Limitations of the DJI DRTK2 base station compared to 3rd party base stations
15:45 Complete Price break down for data equipment
16:27 Why we recommend EMLID Reach GNSS Receivers
For more information on which drone’s and equipment to use please visit https://www.steelcitydrones.com or email us at support@steelcitydrones.com or call us at 866-376-6375 866-DRONES5
Drone Photogrammetry Processing for FREE!Geospatial Tips167,746 views | 3,106 | March 31 2023 10:49:35 (119 comments)[ Read more … ]
Use your drone to perform drone mapping and photogrammetry, create maps, point clouds and 3D models for FREE with this MapsMadeEasy tutorial! It’s cloud based, so you don’t need a powerful computer either.
Maps Made Easy makes it so simple for anyone who owns a drone or UAV to use photogrammetry and create a map for free and then share it online! But not just DJI drones, their cloud processing app will process any drone images.
See how it compares to commercial offerings such as Agisoft Metashape and Pix4D.
Autel drones are supported as well in their flying app. It’s amazing what they offer free of charge.
Map Pilot Pro (https://dronesmadeeasy.com/map-pilot) supports all of these drones:
Mini 2
Air 2
Air 2S
Air
Mavic 3 Enterprise (on M3E remote)
Mavic 3 Multispectral (on M3M remote)
Mavic 2 (Pro, Zoom, and Enterprise – No SMART CONTROLLER support)
Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced
Mavic Pro
Phantom 4
Phantom 4 Pro * (v2 included)
Phantom 4 Advanced
Phantom 4 RTK
Phantom 3 Professional
Phantom 3 Advanced
Phantom 3 Standard
Inspire 1
Inspire 1 Pro
Inspire 2
M30 (on RC Pro Plus remote)
M30T(on RC Pro Plus remote)
Matrice 100 (M100)
Matrice 200 (M200, including V2)
Matrice 210 (M210, including V2)
Matrice 210 RTK (M210RTK)
Matrice 600 (M600)
Matrice 600P (M600P)
Autel EVOII ( no “V2” support)
*This is not a sponsored video*
How you can support my work
————————————————-
Book a consulting session with me:
https://tinyurl.com/4rz33j2d
Support my work on Buy Me a Coffee:
https://buymeacoffee.com/geospatialtips
Hire me on Upwork:
https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~016ba4a9bb38699a0e
00:00 – Looking for a Free Alternative?
00:17 – Map Pilot Pro Image Capture
01:20 – Maps Made Easy Data Processing
09:40 – Global Mapper Additional Processing
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3D modelling with the DJI Mini 3 pro (using photogrammetry)Jérôme Tabeaud169,115 views | 4,645 | April 26 2023 19:00:12 (179 comments)[ Read more … ]
In this video, I explain in way too many minutes what exactly photogrammetry is, what it is used for, and how to do it with the DJI Mini 3 Pro.
I show a detailed example of manual capture at the Saissac Castle ruin, in the south of France.
I then give an example of how to process the captured images using two different softwares : 3DF Zephyr, which is a commercial software, and Meshroom, which is free and open-source. Note that a free demo version of 3DF Zephyr exists but limits you to 50 photos, if you want to try it out for yourself.
00:00 Intro
01:23 What is photogrammetry ?
02:09 What is photogrammetry good for ?
03:18 How to do photogrammetry ?
07:12 Recap of good practices
07:42 Practical example
17:49 Processing with 3DF Zephyr
28:47 Processing with Meshroom
32:12 Results comparison
Music credits
🎵 The Bonfire – Blue Steel
🎵 Let There Be Rain – Silver Maple
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How to do Drone Mapping | Best Mapping Drones & SoftwareDrone U72,724 views | 2,359 | November 27 2023 23:54:03 (143 comments)[ Read more … ]
🚀 Download your free guide and learn the secrets of drone mapping: https://join.thedroneu.com/optin1635325864490
Check out our Comprehensive Drone Mapping Guide: https://www.thedroneu.com/blog/drone-mapping-guide/ ✈️
Ever wondered how cutting-edge technology is transforming the way we view and interact with our world? Join us in this fascinating journey into the realm of drone mapping as we explore the essentials of this groundbreaking technology.
🌍 Understanding the Basics of Map Quality:
Discover the key elements that contribute to high-quality drone maps. From resolution and accuracy to data processing techniques, we break down the fundamentals that make drone mapping an indispensable tool for various industries.
🛰️ Autonomous Flight Paths: Navigating the Skies with Precision:
Explore the magic behind autonomous flight paths. Learn how drones can navigate and capture data seamlessly, ensuring every inch of your project area is mapped with unprecedented accuracy. We delve into the technology that makes autonomous flights a game-changer for efficiency and data integrity.
💻 Choosing the Right Mapping Software for Your Deliverables:
Not all mapping software is created equal. Join us as we evaluate the top players in the field, examining their features and capabilities. Whether you’re focused on 3D modeling, crop analysis, or construction site mapping, we guide you in selecting the best software based on your unique project deliverables.
🎓 Knowledge is Power:
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious enthusiast, this video provides a comprehensive understanding of the drone mapping landscape. Elevate your knowledge and skills as we demystify the technology shaping the future of mapping and surveying.
Best Mapping Drone: Mavic 3 Enterprise
Best Fixed Wing Mapping Drone: Wingtra One Gen 2
Best Domestic Mapping Drone: Freefly Astro
Best Cheap Domestic Mapping Drone: Parrot Anafi Ai
Best Processing Software: Pix4d Mapper
Best Cloud Processing Software: Drone Deploy
Best Rapid Orthomosaic Software: Pix4d React
Best Life Like 3D Modeling Software: Capturing Reality
Best Industrial Mapping Software: Optelos
Best Software to integrate maps with government Entities: ESRI
Yes, you can make life like 3d Models with the Mini 4 Pro and Luma Labs!
Download and listen to the audio version of the Ask Drone U podcast, and get your drone and business related questions answered here: http://askdroneu.com/.
Check out our latest Live Classes for Drone Mapping/Operations
| https://thedroneu.clickfunnels.com/all2020trainingevents |
🔥Drone U Recommended Drones:
Best Travel Drone: https://click.dji.com/ADXzWsLrapRo93aNU2HZ_g?pm=link&as=0001&ch=DUPAAW
Best Video Drone: https://amzn.to/2HnRElC
Best Photography Drone: https://amzn.to/2HjQbg2
🔥Become a Member
Learn why more pilots choose Drone U for learning how to fly and turn your passion into profit. https://www.thedroneu.com/become-a-member/
Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes and, if you don’t mind, leave us a 5-star review while you’re there: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.
Ultimate Guide To Drone MappingDrone Launch Academy38,917 views | 1,228 | May 24 2024 13:00:48 (103 comments)[ Read more … ]
Have you ever wondered how detailed 3D maps and models are created? Or how land is surveyed efficiently? This video takes you into the world of drone mapping technology.
Timestamps:
0:00-1:03 Intro
1:04-4:40 Understanding drone mapping and photogrammetry
4:41-9:55 Applications and benefits
9:56-19:30 Equipment and software
19:31-33:02 4 steps to create a map
33:03-40:54 Regulations and market trends
40:55-41:49 Outro
Drone mapping uses unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors to capture aerial images and data for creating maps and 3D models. It’s revolutionizing how we collect and analyze spatial information across industries like agriculture, construction, environmental monitoring, disaster response, and urban planning.
In this video, you’ll learn the ins and outs of drone mapping. We’ll cover how drones capture images in a grid pattern and specialized software stitches them together into incredibly detailed orthomosaic maps. You’ll see the advantages of using drones over traditional mapping methods, like higher precision, easier access to remote areas, rapid data collection, and cost savings.
We’ll guide you through the essential equipment needed, from selecting the right drone and camera to using GPS receivers, ground control points, and flight control software. You’ll discover the latest mapping software options and how to choose the right one for your needs.
But mapping with drones isn’t just about the tech. We’ll also dive into the legal considerations, including certification, permits, privacy laws, insurance requirements, and local regulations you need to follow.
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Until June 30, 2024 we are offering you FREE access to our $79 workshop on how to take construction site progress shots. This workshop goes hand in hand with mapping and can help you learn more about what progress shots are and why they are important. You will get a step by step guide to getting progress shots and what the final deliverables should look like.
Get access to the workshop here while you still can! https://courses.dronelaunchacademy.com/p/how-to-take-project-progression-shots?coupon_code=FREE&product_id=5028651
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If you want to dive deeper into Drone Launch Academy and level up your drone skills, here are some links to some of the online drone courses we offer:
Part 107 Exam Prep Course- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-exam-study-course/
Drone Mapping and Modeling Fundamentals- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-mapping-and-modeling-fundamentals/
Aerial Video A to Z- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/aerial-video-a-to-z/
Patryk Alexander is an associate copy editor at 4kVideoDrones.com, where he sharpens articles and helps keep the website's content clean and error-free. With a background in creative writing, Patryk brings a unique perspective to his editing that helps make 4kVideoDrones.com's content engaging and informative. When he's not editing or writing, Patryk enjoys spending time with his family and exploring the great outdoors.
