What is
photogrammetry?
Photogrammetry is a technology that captures precise three-dimensional measurements and visual representations of objects, terrain, or structures using photographs.
It relies on advanced software to analyse multiple images taken from different angles, enabling accurate reconstruction and measurement of the subject.
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Want to know more? Become a Photogrammetry Innovator. Adopting photogrammetry is very straightforward once you know the principles and, importantly, your clients see the benefits for themselves.
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As part of our mission to see our industry adopt technology more widely, we run Photogrammetry workshops. Find out more.
BENEFITS OF PHOTOGRAMMETRY
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Photogrammetry provides highly accurate and detailed representations of trees, including their structure, dimensions, and potential issues.
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Capturing 3D models allows for a thorough examination of tree condition, helping with identification of risk features, disease, or structural concerns, post survey.
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Photogrammetry and 3D Gaussian can help to streamline the inspection process by enabling quick and comprehensive data collection, reducing the time required for on-site assessments. This is particularly useful where time constraints or access restrictions restrict surveys.
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Clients receive visual representations such as 3D models and orthoimages, enhancing their understanding of tree conditions and aiding in decision-making.
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The technology facilitates ongoing monitoring, allowing clients to track changes in tree health over time without the need for frequent on-site visits.
Helping you and your clients with immersive 3D.
3D Photogrammetry is revolutionary for use in the arboriculture, ecology, and construction sectors giving us the ability to transform photographs into accurate, fully textured 3D models. We use the principles of photogrammetry, Gaussian splatting and NeRF to support you and your clients on your next project.
From ground to air using our fleet of drones, we can create scans, 3D models, and capture 360 video for use across a range of applications including Virtual and Augmented Reality.
Photogrammetry for Tree Inspections and Reports
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Producing 3D models of tree defects and structural issues using photogrammetry and drones (including sub-250g drones).
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Production of comprehensive, annotated 3D models.
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Detailed 3D construction site models for informed decision-making.
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Digital archives/representations of Ancient and Veteran trees.
Preservation of Historic or Culturally Significant Trees
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Provide CAA-certified drone pilots for aerial photography, video, photogrammetry and inspections.
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Create accurate, textured 3D models of ancient and veteran stems from photographs.
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Specialised surveys using photogrammetry to assess and preserve special trees or irreplaceable habitats.
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Provide CAA-certified drone pilots for aerial photography and surveying.
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Create immersive virtual archives of rare trees.
A NEW DIMENSION IN TREE, ECOLOGY AND CONSTRUCTION SURVEYS
How photogrammetry helps your project.
Photogrammetric surveys are perfect for recording trees where a very high level of detail is necessary, for example compiling a comprehensive record or inspection of an irreplaceable ancient or veteran tree during Veteran Tree Surveys. We can capture details on individual features, cavities or hollows, allowing our team, you and future conservators to view the trees remotely with exceptional clarity, with a greater level of accuracy than traditional techniques.
Check out our 3D model of
Using photogrammetry, we produced a 3D model of a sycamore stump which had been felled following a Detailed Tree Inspection at a UK Theme Park.
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In the field, for routine tree surveys, we typically use a smartphone and specialist, 3D photogrammetry app to capture the information we need.
Check out our 3D model of
Church Spire, Leicestershire scanned in the UK using a DJI Mini 3 Pro and Reality Capture, to demonstrate the use of photogrammetry in Ecology.
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Where the project needs and budget allow, we can also use hand-held, DSLR cameras or drones.
Check out our 3D model of
Ancient Oak, Chatsworth House scanned with a Google Pixel 6 using Polycam.
Our entire use case for photogrammetry relies on the technology, applications and software we use being commercially viable and we champion low-cost and low barrier to entry methods - we don't claim to be an industry leading photogrammetry company.
INFORMED DECISION-MAKING
With our use of photogrammetry, you gain a detailed understanding of your tree assets, empowering you to make informed decisions regarding maintenance, preservation, or removal.
The data collected can be used to share information with specialists around the world, allowing them to view objects, features and trees remotely. For local authority Tree Officers or Developers engaging with the public and local communities, 3D models produced using photogrammetry can be vitally important for public displays.
COST EFFICIENCY
Early detection of issues through photogrammetry helps you address problems before they escalate, saving on potential costly damages or emergency interventions.
3D TREE INVENTORY AND MANAGEMENT
Using photogrammetry to create 3D models to develop comprehensive tree inventories for effective tree management, is one of our main use cases. These models can then be repeated to monitor changes in tree health and growth patterns over time.
TREE CONDITION AND RISK SURVEYS
We regularly capture detailed 3D models to assess the health and structural integrity of identified risk features, identify the presence of symptoms related to diseases or disorder once back in the office, or potential risks through accurate visual representation.
OTHER INNOVATIVE USES
For BS5837 Tree Surveys for Planning, the outputs provide accurate 3D models of tree opportunities and constraints which provides an invaluable design tool during the feasibility stages of a proposed development. It can also be used as an additional tool to assist local planning officers and tree officers in visualising and evaluating development proposals near trees.
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Alongside surveying using a drone, photogrammetry can help to better-inform Visual Tree Assessments (VTA) of trees to inform accurate and reliable Tree Risk Assessment and tree management recommendations.
Photogrammetry workshop sessions.
DO YOU WANT TO INTEGRATE PHOTOGRAMMETRY INTO YOUR WORKFLOW?
Adopting photogrammetry is very straightforward once you know the principles and, importantly, you and your clients see the benefits.
As part of our mission to see arboriculture adopt technology more widely, we run Photogrammetry Workshops specific to arboriculture and ecology. We recognise that companies, arborists, and ecologists will need training and support to integrate photogrammetry into what they do and the deliverable they provide.
Our Photogrammetry Innovator session is a one-day course, giving you an insight into the skills and know-how to ensure that you are not only more competent but also confident, in integrating photogrammetry into your workflow with a focus on using the most freely available and easily adoptable techniques and software available.​
Our sessions are offered as in-house training either on-site, or at your location as long as we have access to the following:
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Suitable, quiet meeting or training room.
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Access within easy walking distance to a range of trees for practical exercises.
£150 per person.
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1 Day, in-person Session.
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Minimum 6 attendees for the Session to run.
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The session will cover:
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Training needs analysis.
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Health and Safety.
Copyright, Laws and Legislation (including specific to using drones). -
Differentiating 1st person/3rd person filming.
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Smartphone apps and software available, both paid and free.
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Scanning scenes using ground and aerial (drone) methods.
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Uploading and processing content.
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3D model Integration with client reports and technical plans.
How we deliver
photogrammetry.
Our entire use case for photogrammetry relies on the technology, applications and software we use being commercially viable and we champion low-cost and low barrier to entry methods - we don't claim to be an industry leading photogrammetry company.
This includes felling, lopping, topping, uprooting, and other intentional destruction. Cutting roots is likewise not permitted and requires the written consent of the LPA.
From pinpointing and analysing tree defects to creating comprehensive site drawings, our use of photogrammetry redefines data collection in arboriculture and elevates your tree surveys and reports. Combined with our use of drones, we can turn drone photos and video into expansive 3D models.
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Our 3D representations and models are provided at the highest resolution and in a format that our clients can use. In the field, for routine tree surveys, we typically use a smartphone and specialist, 3D photogrammetry app to capture the information we need.
However, where the project needs and budget allow, the same principles can also be applied with hand-held, DSLR cameras to create models of trees, tree defects or features, and site context including features and buildings. We can also provide you with all the raw photographs.
What are the disadvantages of photogrammetry?
While photogrammetry offers numerous advantages, it's essential to consider potential disadvantages:
This includes felling, lopping, topping, uprooting, and other intentional destruction. Cutting roots is likewise not permitted and requires the written consent of the LPA.
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Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, winds, clouds, haze, etc. can affect the quality of photogrammetric data collection.
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Photogrammetry may face challenges in capturing detailed information of species type and twig density, especially in areas with dense vegetation, as it relies on clear visibility from various angles.
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High-quality cameras and software for photogrammetry can be expensive, impacting initial investment costs.
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Effective use of photogrammetry requires specialised skills and training and you need to understand both the technology and the principles of accurate data collection.
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While highly accurate, photogrammetry may have limitations in achieving centimeter-level precision compared to other survey methods, such as laser scanning.
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When using drones, adherence to aviation regulations and obtaining appropriate permissions for aerial surveys is crucial, adding complexity and potential delays.
Drone photogrammetry surveys.
Aerial drone photogrammetry surveys are conducted by taking a series of overlapping aerial photographs from various angles. From the overlapping pictures, a 3D model or map of the surveyed region is created.
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We have a range of drones in our toolbox, from sub-250g drones which give us the advantage of reducing separation distances and the ability to fly in congested areas, to larger drones with cameras capable of recording up to 8k video resolution.
PHOTOGRAMMETRY IN ACTION
We used our DJI Mini 3 Pro and filmed 4k, 60fps video to capture an immersive 360 perspective of a church in Leicestershire to showcase the Site context and proximity of the tree cover on the boundaries during a VALID Tree Risk Survey.
By employing cutting-edge 3D photogrammetry scanning techniques, we are able to incorporate this model into our reporting instead of a generic 2D Site Location Plan and better showcase an immersive, visual representation of any trees which may require works, to the local authorities Tree Officer.
These high-definition 3D scans, combined with detailed photographs and, where required, immersive videos, help us to visually represent our survey findings in a new way.
Photogrammetry in Ecology.
We understand the reservations around substituting 3D models for true, real-life experience with trees, defects, potential bat roost features. However, we now have, for the first time in history, an immersive medium that bridges the gap between the classroom and the field.
PHOTOGRAMMETRY IN ECOLOGY
Photogrammetry can be used to capture high-resolution images of potential bat roost features, assess and document features such as tree cavities, crevices, or record evidence of bat roosts or points of entries in lofts and buildings, through detailed 3D models.
Photogrammetric data can be used in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), Phase 1 or UKHab surveys and assessments to enhance habitat mapping, and identify and monitor key ecological features.
ECOLOGY EDUCATION
In the realm of education, photogrammetry serves as a transformative tool for both arboriculture and ecology studies. For arborists in training, immersive experiences can be crafted through 3D models of diverse tree species, simulating scenarios for inspections, risk assessments, and proper pruning techniques.
Ecology and wildlife conservation studies courses are enriched with the integration of photogrammetric models depicting varied ecosystems and habitats, fostering virtual field trips to explore ecological features and biodiversity, providing students with practical skills and insights that transcend traditional educational boundaries.
JOIN A COMMUNITY OF INNOVATORS
Let's start a conversation.
We feel strongly that photogrammetry can be hugely beneficial for arboriculture, and as part of our collaborative approach, are more than happy to share what we know and we are putting this technology to use.
If you are interested in working with an innovative and versatile arboriculture consultancy on your next project, collaborating on a current project for one of your existing clients, or just want to geek out over all things trees and innovative technology – I would love to hear from you.
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- Callum Throw, ARB Innovators