High-resolution 3D models and orthomosaics for construction, real estate, and land development in Costa Rica
Photogrammetry is a sophisticated surveying technique that uses overlapping aerial photographs to create precise 3D models and accurate orthomosaics of surveyed areas. By capturing hundreds of images from slightly different angles using a drone, we can reconstruct the complete geometry of your site with exceptional visual detail and accuracy.
Our photogrammetry surveys in Costa Rica use the latest DJI Phantom 4 RTK drone equipped with high-resolution cameras and RTK positioning technology. This combination delivers orthomosaics with ground resolution of 1.5 cm per pixel or better, along with detailed 3D point clouds and Digital Surface Models.
The photogrammetry process involves several key steps:
DroneSurveyCR uses professional-grade equipment specifically designed for precision photogrammetry surveys across Costa Rica:
Professional drone with integrated RTK positioning, 20MP Hasselblad camera, and gimbal stabilization for perfectly perpendicular imagery
At 120m altitude, each pixel represents 1.5cm of ground distance, delivering extremely detailed orthomosaics suitable for construction quality control
Horizontal accuracy of ±2cm and vertical accuracy of ±3cm without manual ground control points, thanks to Costa Rica's DGPS network coverage
Pix4D and Metashape professional photogrammetry software for precise point cloud generation and orthomosaic creation
Photogrammetry is the ideal solution for projects requiring visual documentation, precise measurements, and high-quality imagery. Common applications include:
Track construction progress with orthomosaics captured at regular intervals. Compare site conditions across phases and identify deviations from design plans with pixel-level precision.
Create stunning aerial views of properties with professional orthomosaics and 3D models. Visual marketing materials capture buyer attention and demonstrate property features clearly.
Generate detailed orthomosaics and DSMs for subdivision planning, site layout, and environmental impact assessments. Accurate measurements support feasibility studies.
Document roads, utilities, and infrastructure with high-resolution imagery. Orthorectified data provides precise mapping for maintenance and upgrade planning.
Calculate stockpile volumes, excavation quantities, and material measurements from 3D point clouds. Accuracy supports cost estimation and project billing.
Document vegetation patterns, land cover changes, and habitat conditions with visual detail. High-resolution orthomosaics support conservation planning in Costa Rica's protected areas.
Our photogrammetry surveys produce comprehensive datasets with multiple output formats for various applications:
Both photogrammetry and LiDAR are powerful surveying technologies, but each has distinct advantages depending on your project requirements:
Expert Recommendation: Many projects benefit from combining both technologies. Use LiDAR for terrain mapping under vegetation and photogrammetry for visual documentation and infrastructure detail. Our team can advise on the optimal approach for your specific survey goals.
Transparent, competitive pricing for professional photogrammetry surveys across Costa Rica:
Base Fee: $1,000 (project setup, flight planning, permits)
Area Charge: $80 per hectare
Processing: Included in base fee
Example: 50-hectare property = $1,000 + (50 × $80) = $5,000
What's Included:
DJI Phantom 4 RTK with integrated RTK positioning and 20MP Hasselblad camera. No compromises on hardware quality.
Full authorization from Costa Rica's Civil Aviation Authority. Authorized to operate unmanned aircraft throughout the country legally and safely.
Available for surveys anywhere in Costa Rica - from remote Caribbean jungles to Pacific coastal properties. We operate in all regions and climate conditions.
Most surveys processed and delivered within 72 hours. For urgent projects, express processing is available for time-sensitive applications.
Every survey includes formal accuracy assessment and certification. RTK positioning ensures absolute accuracy without manual ground control points.
Certified drone operators with advanced photogrammetry expertise. We deliver professional-grade results that meet international standards.
Photogrammetry with RTK positioning achieves horizontal accuracy of ±2cm and vertical accuracy of ±3cm across Costa Rica. This accuracy is suitable for construction monitoring, volumetric calculations, and land surveys. Accuracy can be further verified through comparison with ground control points if ultra-high precision is required for specific applications.
Photogrammetry creates models of visible surfaces, including vegetation canopy. Trees, bushes, and dense forest appear as part of the 3D model. Unlike LiDAR, photogrammetry cannot see beneath tree cover. For terrain mapping in heavily forested areas like many parts of Costa Rica, LiDAR is the better choice. For areas with moderate vegetation or when you need the highest visual detail, photogrammetry excels.
Standard photogrammetry surveys are typically processed and delivered within 72 hours of flight completion. Processing time depends on survey area size and complexity. For small urban surveys (under 5 hectares), turnaround is often 24-48 hours. Large area surveys may require additional processing time. Express processing (24-hour turnaround) is available for premium fees.
We deliver orthomosaics as GeoTIFF files with full georeferencing in Costa Rican coordinate systems (CRTM05). Point clouds are provided in LAS format compatible with standard GIS software. DSMs are delivered as GeoTIFF. 3D models are available in OBJ and FBX formats for visualization and CAD integration. All formats include proper geospatial metadata for seamless integration with existing project data.
Photogrammetry requires good visibility and relatively clear conditions. Heavy rain or thick cloud cover reduces image quality and can prevent flight. Wind speeds above 12 m/s create flight instability. Costa Rica's wet season (May-November) requires careful scheduling around afternoon rains. We monitor weather continuously and schedule flights during optimal conditions. In cloudy conditions where photogrammetry is challenging, LiDAR remains effective.
Yes, photogrammetry is excellent for volumetric analysis. We calculate stockpile volumes, material measurements, and excavation quantities from the dense point clouds with accuracy typically within 2-3%. These calculations are widely used for billing, cost estimation, and project management in quarries, construction sites, and agricultural operations across Costa Rica.
Ready to capture your property or project with professional photogrammetry? Contact DroneSurveyCR for a free quote. We'll assess your specific needs and recommend the best approach for your surveying goals.
Or reach out through our quote request form