LiDAR or photogrammetry: what do you choose when?
Two ways to create a 3D point cloud, each with its strengths. A practical guide to choosing.
Both LiDAR and photogrammetry deliver a 3D point cloud, but they work very differently and excel in different situations.
Photogrammetry
Builds a model from overlapping photos. Strong in open terrain, delivers beautiful coloured models and is usually more cost-effective. Weakness: it does not see through vegetation.
LiDAR
Measures with laser pulses and partly penetrates vegetation down to ground level. Ideal for vegetated embankments, woods and banks. Also works in the dark. Weakness: higher cost and less colour information.
The rule of thumb
- Open terrain, colour important → photogrammetry
- Vegetation, terrain model needed → LiDAR
- Both needed → we combine them
Not sure? Send us a description of your terrain and goal, and we advise the most cost-effective approach.