Drone Mapping Guide 2023: Everything You Need to Know

Are you curious to learn about drone mapping and how it works? Want to build a career in this burgeoning field? If so, you have come to the right place.

This guide serves as your one-stop resource to learn everything you need to know about drone mapping.

The world of drone mapping and surveying is evolving rapidly.

And when you are just starting it is crucial to have a solid understanding of the latest drone mapping tools and techniques.

In this article, we’ll explore the types of drone mapping software and how to pick the right one for your purpose. You will get a first-hand understanding of how drone mapping works and the technology that makes it possible.

You’ll also discover the exciting applications of drone mapping and get a glimpse into the future of this rapidly evolving field providing a faster, more efficient, and cost-effective solution to traditional aerial surveys.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of drone mapping technology and how to get the most out of it.

What is Drone Mapping?

Drone Mapping is simply measuring from photos.  With drone mapping, we fly autonomous missions to capture a high overlap of images to create life-like maps and models. Drones have revolutionized the way we survey and map our world. The efficiency, speed, and accuracy of drone mapping have revolutionized many industries.

First, let me give you a quick overview of drone mapping.

Drone mapping refers to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to collect aerial data and generate maps, models, and other types of visual representations of a worksite.  Drone Mapping is a form of photogrammetry or measuring from images.

In simple terms, drone mapping can be defined as the ability to fly autonomous missions with your drone to create 2D maps and 3D models.

Terrain Mapping

Drone mapping combines a range of technologies, including photogrammetry, LiDAR, and SLAM lidar, to produce high-resolution images and data that can be used for surveying, agriculture, construction, and environmental monitoring.

For underwater mapping, Drones fly dual-band sonar to capture data sets below the water.

I know all this can sound a bit technical but stay with me here.

First things first – let’s understand the importance of drone mapping and why it is catching up so fast.

The Importance of Drone Mapping

The report “The Economic Impact of Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration in the United States” by AUVSI highlights the economic advantage of incorporating UAS technology.

According to AUVSI’s research, within the first three years of integration, over 70,000 new jobs will be generated in the United States, with a positive economic impact of over $13.6 billion.

This positive trend is expected to continue to grow until 2025, with projections of creating over 100,000 jobs and an economic impact of $82 billion.

To fully appreciate the importance of drone mapping, it’s essential to understand how it differs from traditional mapping methods and the unique advantages it offers.

How Does Drone Mapping Differ From Traditional Mapping Methods?

Simply put, drone mapping is Faster, offers higher-quality data, and is cheaper to acquire.

Drone mapping is a game-changing alternative to traditional mapping methods, offering numerous advantages over traditional mapping and surveying methods such as

1. Drone mapping provides high-resolution aerial data that is more accurate and detailed than traditional survey methods. This increased accuracy can lead to better decision-making and more informed planning and analysis.
2. Drone mapping eliminates the need for manual data collection, and provides real-time data that can be processed and analyzed quickly. This saves time and resources compared to traditional survey methods.
3. Drones can fly to areas that are difficult or impossible for humans to reach, such as high-rise buildings, dense forests, or dangerous disaster zones. This allows for data collection and mapping in places that were previously inaccessible.
4. Drone mapping eliminates the need for expensive equipment and reduces the need for large teams of surveyors.
5. Drone mapping eliminates the need for people to work in dangerous or hazardous environments, improving safety and reducing the risk of injury or harm.

Let’s delve a bit deeper into some of the specific benefits that mapping with drone technology offers.

Additional Benefits of Using Drones for Surveying and Mapping

Drone mapping technology has revolutionized the way surveyors and mappers collect, process, and analyze geographic data. Drone mapping has numerous benefits, including

Increased Efficiency

Drone mapping is significantly faster and more efficient than traditional ground-based surveying and mapping methods. This can save time, reduce costs, and increase efficiency.

Enhanced Accuracy

Mapping with drones provides high-resolution aerial imagery and data that can be used to create accurate maps and models of the terrain. This technology can also be integrated with other data sources, such as ground-based sensors, to provide even more accurate and detailed data.

Improved Safety

Using drones for surveying and mapping eliminates the need for surveyors and mappers to work in hazardous or difficult-to-access areas. This can improve safety and reduce the risk of injury or accidents.

With the proper certification, operators can employ unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for security and surveillance purposes at private corporations, sporting events, public gatherings, and other venues. Additionally, UAVs can collect valuable information during and after natural disasters to assist in both security and recovery efforts.

Increased Accessibility

Using drones for 3D mapping makes it possible to map remote or hard-to-reach areas that were previously difficult or impossible to survey.

Improved Data Collection

3D drone mapping technology allows surveyors and mappers to collect large amounts of data in a short time, which can be used to create detailed maps and models of the terrain.

High-Quality Aerial Images

Drones provide exceptional capabilities for capturing top-notch aerial photos and videos and gathering large amounts of imaging data. The resulting high-resolution images can be utilized to produce 3D maps and interactive 3D models that have numerous practical applications.

Despite these benefits, there are some limitations to drone mapping technology.

Let us take a quick look at what the limitations are so that you are prudent about using this technology.

Limitations of Drone Mapping

• Cost: Drone mapping technology can be expensive, particularly for smaller organizations or projects. This may limit the widespread adoption of drone mapping technology.
• Technical Skills: Drone mapping requires specialized technical skills to operate and maintain the equipment. This can limit the pool of people who can use this technology effectively. However, this limitation can be significantly reduced by taking the Comprehensive Mapping Course with the Drone U membership.
• Privacy and Regulatory Issues: Drone mapping technology can raise privacy and regulatory concerns, particularly about data collection and use. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established regulations for small unmanned aircraft that apply to both commercial and recreational use. However, there are still uncertainties surrounding the best ways to establish airspace property rights and safeguard landowners from aerial intrusion.
• Weather Limitations: Using drones for mapping is limited by weather conditions, such as heavy rain or high winds, which can prevent the drone from flying safely.
• Equipment Limitations: Mapping with drones is limited by the range and endurance of the drone equipment, as well as the availability of spare parts and maintenance services.

Now that you are aware of the benefits and limitations of drone mapping, let us dive into how drone mapping actually works.

How Drone Mapping Works?

Wingtra Vertical Takeoff Drone

Drone mapping involves three important steps:

• Mission Planning: This involves determining the right type of drones for the mission, choosing the right software selecting a mapping solution that is a drone mapping application and a web platform that helps to plan the flight accurately, identifying data needs, creating a flight plan for the area to be mapped, and ensuring airspace authorization from local and federal agencies.
• Capturing Media: The second step in drone mapping is all about capturing media at the site location. You fly the drone (manually or autonomously) and capture the data we need for mapping or 3D modeling.
• Processing Drone Data: This is the third and final step of the drone mapping process. Using specialized software applications, you turn this data into 2d maps or 3d models, generate insights and provide deliverables to the client.

So far so good. You have understood how drone technology works and now it’s time to learn more about the applications of drone technology. Drone mapping is a relatively new technology and we are only scratching the surface.

Our Video on How to Correctly Use Ground Control Points in Drone Surveying and Mapping

Applications of Drone Mapping

Drone mapping technology is versatile and can be used in a wide range of industries and applications.

Here are a few important ones:

Agriculture

DJI Plant Protection Drone

According to the United Nations, the world’s population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, resulting in a 69% increase in agricultural consumption from 2010 to 2050. Given that the majority of drone-using farmers and agriculture companies are large, corporate-owned farms, the potential for growth in the use of drones in agriculture is immense.

Drone mapping is used in monitoring crop health, identifying areas of soil variability, and planning irrigation and fertilization programs.

Construction and Mining

In the construction industry, drone mapping is being used to create accurate topographic maps, survey job sites, and monitor progress on construction projects.

According to PwC, the use of drones in construction and mining industries has the potential to become a multi-billion dollar global market worth $28.3 billion. Companies within these sectors are utilizing drones for effective compliance and adhering to strict worker safety regulations.

Drone mapping is also used to survey and map large mining sites, including open-pit mines and underground mines.

Weather Forecasting

Drones are capable of entering storms safely and gathering critical information such as temperature, pressure, humidity, and wind velocity. Scientists are exploring the use of drones in collecting research data.

This information can then be used to issue advanced storm warnings and with sufficient time to take protective measures or evacuate.

Surveying

Drone mapping can be used to quickly and accurately survey large areas of land, including remote and difficult-to-access locations.

Real Estate

Drone mapping can be used to create detailed maps and 3D models of real estate properties, including large estates and commercial properties.

Environmental Monitoring

Environmental Monitoring | Source: Environmental Works

Drone mapping is used to monitor environmental conditions and changes, including land use changes, forest health, and coastal erosion. They can be used to quickly map disaster zones, identify critical infrastructure, and support rescue and recovery efforts.

Protecting Wildlife

Conservationists use drones equipped with night vision optics or thermal sensors to patrol parks and prevent poaching. Liwonde National Park in Malawi serves as a prime example, utilizing anti-poaching drones to detect illegal snares, keep tabs on park activity, and aid law enforcement in locating and apprehending poachers.

Liwonde National Park in Malawi | Source: Malawian Style

These are just a few examples of the many applications of drone mapping. As drone technology continues to evolve, the range of applications will likely continue to increase.

The world of drone mapping is evolving rapidly, thanks to the relentless innovation in software and hardware.

In the next section, we will discuss various drone mapping software and drone platforms that are currently popular in the market.

Types of Drone Mapping Software

Depending on the application, here are the three types of drone mapping software available in the market:

• Photogrammetry Software
• LiDAR Mapping Software
• 3D Modeling Software

People often get confused with the technical terms used in drone mapping software. So let’s understand how the Photogrammetry, LiDAR Mapping, and 3D modeling software are different from one another.

Photogrammetry Software

Photogrammetry Point Cloud | Source: GISGeography

Photogrammetry software uses images captured by a drone to create 2D and 3D maps, models, and orthomosaics. Photogrammetry software creates realistic 3D depictions of topographic surfaces by merging geotagged images of the same features from multiple perspectives.

Photogrammetry software can be used for a range of applications, including surveying and mapping, agriculture, construction, and engineering.

LiDAR Mapping Software

Capitol Building LiDAR | Source: GISGeography

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) mapping software uses laser scanning technology to collect 3D data and generate detailed maps and models. LiDAR mapping software is typically used for more complex applications, such as large-scale mapping and engineering, as it provides high-resolution data and precise measurements.

3D Modeling Software

3D Model of New York City in Drone View | Source: ResearchGate

3D modeling software is used to create 3D models of objects and environments, using data collected from a drone or other sources. 3D modeling software can be used for a variety of applications, including architecture, engineering, and construction.

Some drone mapping software packages offer a combination of photogrammetry, LiDAR mapping, and 3D modeling capabilities.

How To Pick The Right Drone Mapping Software?

To make it simpler for you and to help you choose the right software, here are three types of mapping software you need to know

• Acquisition Software
• Processing Software
• Cloud-based or All-in-one Software

Let me give you a quick overview of each of these software categories.

Acquisition Software

Drone Aerial Shot

The acquisition software controls the drone to fly autonomous missions. A few examples of acquisition software are

• Maps Made Easy: A web application
• Pix4D Capture: Can be installed on a computer
• UCGS: Desktop-based image/video stitching software

Processing Software

Point Cloud – Collision Reconstruction | Source: DJI

The processing software typically runs on a desktop PC or laptop and is compatible with any Windows-based computer.

It allows for the stitching together of numerous data points, resulting in the creation of a point cloud. This point cloud can then be transformed into a variety of deliverables such as a Digital Surface Model, digital terrain model, topographic map, 3D textured mesh, and other types of outputs.

With these processing capabilities, drone pilots have greater flexibility in handling their data. You can easily fix issues with the data and produce a variety of deliverables.

Cloud-based Software

Cloud-based or all-in-one software, such as DroneDeploy, enables users to acquire and upload imagery to the cloud for processing.

That being said – DroneDeploy may not be suitable for all missions.

DroneDeploy works well when there is a stable cellular connection, but it is not ideal for complex environments or 3D modeling.

Additionally, if you want full control over their data, DroneDeploy may not be the best option.

In the next section of this guide, we will take a closer look at each type of drone mapping software and provide recommendations on the best choice for your projects.

Don’t miss out on our exclusive video showcasing the best free software for drone mapping practice!

Comparison of Different Types of Drone Mapping Software Available in the Market

When comparing drone mapping software, you need to consider several factors such as accuracy, ease of use, cost, and compatibility with your drone and other hardware.

Here is a comparison of different types of drone mapping software based on the purpose:

Pix4DMapper

Source: Pix4D

If you are a drone pilot looking for the best software to create a myriad of deliverables then Pix4DMapper is an excellent choice. It offers the most flexibility in creating deliverables such as orthomosaics, point clouds, DSMs, DTMs, Topographic maps, 3D textured mesh, video animations, and video game environments.

Pix4D Mapper allows you to have full control over their data, enabling you to create marketing videos, construction plans, and 3D textured mesh models.

Overall, Pix4DMapper is the best desktop processing software, offering you the greatest value for your investment and flexibility in producing diverse deliverables.

Pix 4D React

Orthomosaics is a critical deliverable in many drone applications, from disaster assessment and public safety to construction and engineering. In fact, it is one of the top three deliverables in these industries.

When it comes to generating rapid orthomosaics without reliable internet access, the most efficient solution is Pix4D React. This software excels as the fastest orthomosaic generator and methodology for creating geo-referenced outputs.

However, it is important to note that Pix4D React does not allow for actual geo-referencing of the orthomosaic.

If you are flying a Wingtra drone, the fixed-wing vertical takeoff and landing drone, you can pre-georeference the photos and then use Pix4D React to produce the quickest, most scalable orthomosaic that is both geo-rectified and geo-referenced.

Alternatively, if you have a reliable internet connection, you can upload your photos from your drone directly to the cloud and use DroneDeploy, which has the fastest orthomosaic generator in the cloud, but without the ability to perform geo-referencing.

Pro Tip: If your goal is to generate the fastest geo-referenced orthomosaic, then you must have a Wingtra drone and use Pix4D React.

DroneDeploy

DroneDeploy Mapping Software | Source: DroneDeploy

DroneDeploy is a cloud-based mapping software that allows you to upload photos directly from your drone to generate orthomosaic without geo-referencing. The software is well known for its excellent mapping engine for volumetric measurements.

However, DroneDeploy has its limitations. Let us look at the limitations of DroneDeploy:

1. It is not suitable for creating complex 3D models or environments that require multiple flight plans.
2. The platform lacks the ability to merge data from different flight plans, such as when one subject is shot with orbits and another with a double grid.
3. There is no MTP construction or aligning of the data.
4. DroneDeploy does not offer high-level organization, and users do not own their data.
5. Furthermore, the volumetric measurements on the platform are based on the digital surface model rather than the point cloud.

Despite its limitations, DroneDeploy remains an excellent mapping software for beginners and those looking to perform volumetric measurements.

Reality Capture vs Context Capture

When it comes to creating 3D models, Reality Capture is the best software in our opinion.

However, the user interface can be a little clunky and the point cloud construction isn’t great.

Reality Capture Interface | Source: YouTube 

On the other hand, Context Capture by Bentley is the absolute best 3D model generator on the planet, but it’s also extremely expensive. That’s why we use Optelos, which utilizes the Context Capture engine at a lower price point.

With Optelos, we can access the amazing 3D modeling capabilities of Context Capture for about half or even a third of the normal price of normal Bentley context capture.

Pro Tip: While Reality Capture is a great 3D modeling tool, there have been times when I’ve taken a point cloud generated in Pix4D mapper and merged it over to Reality Capture to create a 3D model.

Optelos

Source: Optelos

One significant development in the mapping industry is the shift from mere mapping and comprehending data to macro-level data organization.

And Optelos is leading the way.

This involves consolidating different data points such as 360 images, 360 Panos from the sky, and interior 3D models onto a single point cloud or 2D map. By doing so, it becomes possible to layer and integrate these diverse assets in a more cohesive and meaningful way.

Based on our experience, the absolute best executive-level mapping management software available today is Optelos.

Optelos also offers a unique feature that most of the other mapping software does not have, which is the “ortho compare feature.”

Optelo’s Ortho Compare Feature | Source: Getapp

This feature is particularly valuable in the construction industry, where orthomosaics are frequently used, to create high-level time maps of a construction site.

With the ortho compare feature, multiple orthomosaics can be overlaid on top of each other, and by swiping through the Orthomosaic, you can see the changes and deviations on the site over time. This can be done as long as you have datasets from week to week.

Overall, the ortho-compare feature can provide significant insights into the progress of a construction project and help identify potential issues early on.

Propeller Aero

Source: Propeller Aero

Propeller Aero is a drone mapping software that offers Arrow Points, which is a simple and easy method for geo-referencing your data. Their processing software is probably the best for “cut and fill” efficiency calculation.

What does that mean?

Well, imagine you’re on a construction site and you need to move dirt from one area to another to level the ground. Propeller Aero’s software is the only mapping software that will measure the time it took and how much dirt was moved from one position to another.

It can help you determine if the job was done efficiently or if too much dirt was cut from one area and filled into another, which could cause problems down the line.

This information is crucial for construction sites because it can help identify and resolve potential issues early on.

Best Drone Mapping Software: Our Top Picks

It is easy to feel overwhelmed with these mapping softwares, each offering different features and capabilities.

To help make things easier, we’ve put together a summary of the top picks for drone mapping software based on specific features.

Feature	Our Recommendation
Cost-effective Mapping Software	Pix 4D Mapper
Orthomosaic Mapping Software (Without Internet)	Pix 4D React
Orthomosaic Mapping Software (With Internet)	DroneDeploy
Volumetric Measurement Software	DroneDeploy
3D Mapping Software (Affordable)	Optelos
3D Modeling Construction (Advance Features)	Capture Reality
Best Drone Software for Construction	Optelos/Propeller Aero

 

Between Optelos and Propeller Aero, I prefer Optelos for its next-level asset organization. DroneDeploy has done this too.

DroneDeploy has also stepped up its game with its recent acquisition of StructionSite, which can create a single data product by overlaying interior and exterior 3D models.

However, you can achieve this at a more affordable cost and better quality with “Kuula“, a processing software.

Ultimately, choosing the best drone mapping software depends on these two factors:

1. Specific deliverable you want to create. the problem you want to solve with your drone.
2. How you will interpret the data and make decisions.

Now that you have a better understanding of what to consider when choosing drone mapping software, it’s time to look at the best drones that can help you capture the data you need to create accurate and detailed maps.

Best Drones For Mapping

DJI Phantom 4 Pro | Source: Unsplash

So far we have discussed drone mapping software and now it’s time to find out the best drones for mapping. After all, this is THE most critical element of the equation.

When it comes to choosing the best drone for mapping, two drones come to my mind. The DJI Mavic 3 and Phantom 4 Pro.

Let’s compare these two platforms and find out which one is better for your specific needs.

DJI Mavic 3 vs Phantom 4 Pro

The Phantom 4 Pro drone is the most valuable DJI mapping drone ever made, and for good reason. It has doubled in price due to its impressive features, including the ability to shoot 4K videos and RAW photos.

Its open Software Development Kit (SDK) allows for the use of about three dozen different applications for mapping. The Phantom 4 Pro remains a powerhouse in the mapping industry. However, it can only be purchased refurbished. The Phantom 4 Pro is still more affordable than the Mavic three enterprise and is definitely worth the investment.

DJI Mavic 3 | Source: DJI

The most up-to-date DJI mapping drone currently available is the Mavic 3 enterprise, but it has one major downside: it doesn’t have the same video quality as other Mavic models such as the Mavic 3 Cine, the Mavic 3 Classic, or the regular Mavic 3. These models offer 4K video and RAW photo capabilities., They all have these features that the Mavic 3 doesn’t have.

It seems that DJI is encouraging drone pilots to consider the Mavic 3 enterprise for autonomous missions. This drone offers unique features that are not available in other models of Mavic 3 drones such as the Mavic 3 classic.

This means that you have to spend triple the amount of money that the Phantom 4 Pro costs just to get all the features that the Phantom 4 Pro can offer. That’s why it still remains such a valuable drone.

However, it would be great if DJI could incorporate these features into other models to provide a wider range of options for drone pilots.

The question remains, which mapping drone should you buy?

Which Mapping Drone Should You Buy?

If you’re looking for a great mapping drone for under $5,000 and buying DJI is an option, the Mavic 3 Enterprise is a solid choice, although it has limited capability with only DJI Pilot 2 and a few other available apps.

However, if you want to capture beautiful videos, perform mapping missions, and take raw photos, the Phantom 4 Pro drone is the best mapping drone.

Best Non-Chinese Drone For 3D Mapping: Parrot Anafi Ai

Parrot Anafi Ai | Source: Parrot

If you need a mapping drone that is not Chinese or from DJI, Parrot Anafi Ai is the best drone for mapping. It has Pix4D Capture acquisition software built right into the drone.

Additionally, it is NDA approved for flying in American airspace, making it a great option for those who require an approved drone for their work.

Techniques for Effective Drone Mapping

Mapping Training by DroneU

Here are a few techniques and best practices to keep in mind:

Proper Planning

Effective drone mapping starts with proper planning. This includes determining the size and scope of the area to be mapped, selecting the right drone and hardware for the job, and determining the data that needs to be collected. You also need to consider weather conditions and any safety and regulatory requirements.

Camera Settings

The quality of your drone mapping data is heavily dependent on the quality of the images captured by your drone. It’s important to understand the camera settings and how to optimize them for your specific mapping needs. This includes selecting the right resolution, image format, and camera position.

Flight Planning

Effective drone mapping requires precise flight planning. This includes determining the optimal flight altitude and overlap, as well as the flight path and pattern. It’s important to consider the specific requirements of your mapping software, as well as the size and complexity of the area to be mapped.

Data Processing

Drone mapping data is typically processed using photogrammetry or LiDAR mapping software. It is important to understand the data processing workflow and how to optimize it for your specific mapping needs. This includes selecting the right algorithms, adjusting processing settings, and performing quality checks.

Quality Control

Effective drone mapping requires quality control checks to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data. This includes checking the quality of the images captured by the drone, verifying the accuracy of the map or model, and ensuring that any errors or discrepancies are corrected.

The Future of Drone Mapping

The future of drone mapping looks promising.

Allied Market Research projects that the construction drone market will hit $11.96 billion by 2027.

Let us look at a few trends and developments in the Drone mapping industry worth keeping an eye on.

Greater Accessibility

Drone mapping technology is becoming more accessible, with lower costs, easier-to-use software, and smaller, more portable drones. This will enable more people and organizations to use drone mapping technology and benefit from it.

Integration with Other Technologies

Drone mapping technology is likely to become increasingly integrated with other technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT). This will enable new and more advanced applications of drone mapping, such as real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and autonomous flight.

Increased Regulation

As drone usage continues to increase, authorities are likely to regulate it more strictly, especially regarding data privacy. It’s important to stay informed about the latest regulations and best practices for drone usage, especially for commercial and industrial applications. You can learn more about drone regulations in this article.

New Applications

As technology evolves and improves, new and innovative applications of drone mapping technology are likely to emerge. This includes everything from environmental monitoring to construction planning, and from search and rescue operations to autonomous flight.

Emergency Response Enhanced by Improved Technology

As the quality of media produced by drone cameras improves, emergency response teams can use them to locate and identify victims more quickly. This increased efficiency has the potential to improve the survival rate of victims. Moreover, drones enable response teams to survey the aftermath of a natural disaster, directing disaster relief and aid effectively to the most vulnerable areas affected.

Construction

Professionals in the construction industry can greatly benefit from the use of drones equipped with imaging technology.

The speed and efficiency with which drones can cover large areas, combined with the ability to produce 3D images, can provide valuable data at the start of a project and help monitor progress throughout the construction process.

This information can lead to the creation of safer and more structurally sound buildings, raise the probability of meeting critical deadlines, and achieve budgetary goals.

Conclusion

Experts predict that the global surveying and mapping services market will experience a compound annual growth rate of 3.4% and reach a value of US$13 billion by 2032. Read the full report here.

The future of drone mapping is exciting, and it will be interesting to see how the technology continues to evolve and impact a wide range of industries and applications.

Do you have questions about drone mapping or need some guidance? Drop your comment below to start the conversation.

Enhance your 3D drone mapping skills with this essential video!

Watch the video now and discover the secrets to achieving exceptional 3D drone maps!

Further Reading

• How Drones are Future-proofing the Construction Industry
• First Responders Assess Drones for Search and Rescue Missions