Drone photogrammetry is a popular method for capturing aerial images and converting them into accurate and detailed maps, 3D models, and other spatial data types. To perform this process, you need the right software to help you process and analyse the images captured by your drone. Fortunately, there are many software applications for drone photogrammetry. In this article, we shall share the eight best drone photogrammetry software available on the market.
Industries That Use Drones For Mapping
Drones are widely used for mapping purposes in several industries, including:
Construction and engineering: Drones survey construction sites, monitor progress, track changes, and measure quantities.
Agriculture: Drones are used to map crops and fields, measure yield and growth, and monitor for signs of disease and pest infestation.
Mining: Drones are used to map and survey mines and monitor for environmental impacts, such as changes in land use and deforestation.
Environmental monitoring: Drones are used to monitor and map wildlife habitats, track changes in land use and deforestation, and assess the health of forests, wetlands, and other ecosystems.
Emergency services: Drones are used to map disaster zones, such as those affected by hurricanes, earthquakes, and fires, in order to support relief and recovery efforts.
Archaeology and cultural heritage: Drones are used to map and survey archaeological sites and cultural heritage landmarks in order to better understand and protect these valuable resources.
Overall, drones are a versatile and valuable tool for mapping and surveying a wide range of industries and applications, from construction and agriculture to environmental monitoring and emergency services.
Best Drone Photogrammetry Software
Pix4DMapper
Pix4Dmapper is a professional drone photogrammetry software developed by Pix4D, a leading mapping and photogrammetry solutions provider. This software is designed to process and analyse aerial images captured by drones and convert them into accurate and detailed maps, 3D models, and other types of spatial data. Pix4Dmapper is known for its fast and precise results and its ability to process large datasets in a short amount of time.
One of the key features of Pix4Dmapper is its use of AI for aerial triangulation, bundle block adjustment and automatic camera calibration, which enables users to produce high-quality results with minimal input. The software also provides a wide range of processing options and allows users to customise their mapping projects to meet their specific needs. Additionally, Pix4Dmapper supports a wide range of drone platforms, making it a versatile solution for users with different types of drones.
Pix4Dmapper is a popular choice among professionals, including surveyors, architects, engineers, and geologists, as well as hobbyists and researchers who need to create maps, 3D models, and other types of spatial data. Its user-friendly interface and advanced features make it a powerful and accessible tool for those looking to process and analyse drone-captured images.
PropellerAero
Propeller Aero is a cloud-based software platform for drone surveying, mapping, and analysis. It provides a complete solution for construction, mining, and waste management professionals to process and analyse drone-captured aerial data.
Propeller Aero is easy to navigate, providing a user-friendly interface that enables users to quickly and efficiently process drone-captured images into accurate maps, 3D models, and other types of spatial data. The software also includes advanced features such as automatic flight planning, real-time flight tracking, and automatic image processing. It is a comprehensive solution for professionals who need fast and accurate results.
In addition to its mapping capabilities, Propeller Aero provides a suite of tools for data analysis, including volume calculation, surface analysis, and site progress tracking. This makes it a valuable tool for construction professionals who need to monitor the progress of their projects and track changes over time.
Propeller Aero is a cloud-based solution, which means that users can access their data and results from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it a flexible and convenient solution for professionals who need to access their data on the go.
Although The platform can process aerial data from different drones, the company does recommend the following drones:
- DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise
- DJI Phantom 4 RTK
- DJI Matrice 300 RTK
- WingtraOne
- Quantum-Systems Trinity F90+
Propeller Aero is a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for professionals who need to process and analyse drone-captured aerial data. Its combination of mapping, analysis, and collaboration tools makes it valuable for construction, mining, and aggregates.
DroneDeploy
DroneDeploy is a cloud-based drone mapping and photogrammetry software platform. It provides a comprehensive solution for drone mapping, including flight planning, image capture, and data processing. DroneDeploy is known for its ease of use and ability to produce fast and accurate results.
DroneDeploy’ is Live Map is an innovative product. This real-time mapping tool allows users to view and analyse mapping data as the drone flies. Users can map around 200 acres in 15 minutes without an internet connection. This feature is ideal for situations where prompt data is crucial and time is of the essence.
The software also includes automatic image processing, which enables users to quickly and easily process their drone-captured images into accurate maps, 3D models, and other types of geospatial data.
In addition to its mapping capabilities, DroneDeploy provides a suite of tools for data analysis, including volume calculation, surface analysis, automated counting and site progress tracking. This makes it a valuable tool for construction professionals who need to monitor the progress of their projects and track changes over time.
DroneDeploy is a cloud-based solution, which means that users can access their data and results from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it a flexible and convenient solution for professionals who need to access their data on the go.
DroneDeploy is a user-friendly and robust solution for professionals who need to process and analyse drone-captured aerial data. Its combination of mapping, analysis, and collaboration tools make it a valuable tool for many industries.
DJI Terra
The DJI Terra offers a powerful and efficient drone photogrammetry software solution. It features a real-time 2D map production tool and 3D modelling capabilities. This cutting-edge tool offers multiple visual outputs from RGB to Multispectral images and thermal cameras, plus lidar device support. Furthermore, the application also has various analysis tools for quickly making sense of and sharing data with colleagues or clients, allowing them to make informed decisions backed by accurate information. The DJI Terra is a desktop application with four licenses, and the Pro version is the most popular as it supports use in multiple industries.
Site Scan For ArcGIS
Site Scan for ArcGIS provides a comprehensive solution to meet all your drone mapping and 3D modelling needs. This photogrammetry software is used by professionals in multiple industries, enabling them to plan flight missions with its mobile app. At the same time, the web-based application processes image data from most high-end drones – but recommends one of the following four drones.
- FreeFly Astro
- DJI Matrice 300 RTK
- DJI Phantom 4 RTK
- WingtraOne
The platform integrates with Esri’s ArcGIS platform and provides advanced flight planning, data capture, and analysis tools. Site Scan for ArcGIS offers real-time analytics and data visualisation capabilities. The platform supports various data formats and sources, including 2D and 3D imagery, elevation data, and more.
AgioSoft MetaShape
Agiosoft Metashape is the perfect photogrammetry software for professionals looking to quickly and efficiently process aerial imagery into 3D models, maps or orthomosaics. It offers an extensive range of advanced tools and features, including automatic feature detection, cloud processing and high-resolution map production capabilities that support all kinds of image sources, such as RGB, multispectral, thermal cameras, and LiDAR sensors. The software is a desktop application, and its powerful features make Agiosoft Metashape suitable for a variety of applications, from construction site management through land use planning to environmental monitoring. There are two versions; the Standard application costs $179 for a 12-month license; however, this has minimal features and is not suitable for professional use. The Pro version costs $3499 and comes with free updates for life.
PrecisionHawk
PrecisionHawk is a platform that offers aerial data and mapping services for various industries such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure. The platform provides users with tools for collecting, analysing, and visualising aerial data from drones and other imaging platforms. PrecisionHawk’s mapping tools include photogrammetry, 3D modelling, and orthomosaic production, making it an ideal solution for surveying and monitoring tasks. The platform also integrates various data analysis tools, allowing users to generate actionable insights from aerial data. PrecisionHawk pricing is not publicly disclosed and depends on each client’s specific needs and requirements.
Mapware
Mapware is a company that provides photogrammetry software solutions. Their photogrammetry software allows users to generate high-precision maps and 3D models from aerial imagery. Their data centres are equipped with powerful computing resources that allow for fast and efficient processing of large data sets.
Mapware’s software is known for its innovation, using cutting-edge technologies such as AI, GPU, accelerated parallel processing and context-aware task management framework. This results in faster and more accurate maps and 3D models that can be generated at scale.
Regarding pricing, Mapware offers three plans tailored to the needs of different types of users. They have a solo plan that costs $99pm and a squad plan that costs $199pm.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, drone photogrammetry has become increasingly popular recently, providing efficient and cost-effective solutions for surveying, mapping, and inspection purposes. The market offers a variety of software options, each with its strengths and weaknesses. However, the photogrammetry applications mentioned in this article are among the best and offer robust features, accuracy, and ease of use. Ultimately, the best software choice will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the user. It is recommended to consider factors such as cost, compatibility with the drone, and available features before making a final decision.