The difference between lidar and photogrammetry?

Using Lidar and Photogrammetry for Drone Surveys Services

Whether it be for land surveys, architectural planning, agriculture or construction, Lidar and Photogrammetry are both incredibly important tools for drone surveys. But what is the difference between them?

Lidar is similar to the likes of sonar or radar which uses sound and radio waves to map surfaces and detect objects. The most common type of lidar scanning is with infrared light and is often referred to as 3D laser scanning as the technology is predominantly used for 3D modelling. Photogrammetry on the other hand uses visual images to reconstruct terrain in a 3d model using overlap and sufficient ground controls.

And this is what the main difference between the two is – how they record their data. It is understandable that most people think that Lidar is more accurate as it uses infrared rather than photos. But photogrammetry can generate the necessary data while being able to add a visual representation of the site which Lidar cannot.

So which is best?

There is no simple or accurate answer to which is best. They both have their own unique benefits (and disadvantages). For example, Lidar can cut straight through vegetation and create a landscape map of the ground in a heavily vegetated areas whereas photogrammetry would not be able to see below the trees. This makes Lidar the better choice for certain requirements. However in construction, photogrammetry is more popular. It is a cheaper system to operate and with the benefit of the images, is preferred as a visual tool for inspection, reporting and other requirements in the sector.

So which do we use?

We use both. Lidar is an easier inspection method to carry out simply because it is less detailed than the image based photogrammetry but whether you require 3d laser scans or detailed photos with an accuracy of more than 1/10ft then we can provide you with the very best in drone survey services.

We provide award winning drone survey and inspection services across Scotland. Our team of fully qualified drone pilots can provide visual indoor, outdoor and underwater drone surveys with HD video, thermal imaging and photography media. The significant cost and time savings of drone surveys means that they are a genuine alternative to conventional inspection methods and are fast becoming the number 1 method of conducting regular visual inspections on key assets , utilities and infrastructure.

At Balmore, we offer the expertise of four decades in difficult access works including roofing, rope access, industrial cleaning and drone inspection services. Our one stop shop approach to inspection, repair and cleaning has grown through our desire to constantly exceed our clients expectations and offer a service that is far superior to our competitors.