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Photogrammetry Distance Calculator

The Photogrammetry Distance Calculator is an interactive tool designed to solve the complex relationship between camera specifications, distance, and ground sampling distance. It provides two powerful calculation modes to help you plan your photogrammetry projects effectively.

The Calculator​

Photogrammetry Calculator

Camera Settings

Select your camera or choose Custom for manual entry
Camera resolution width
Camera resolution height
1.0 = full frame, 1.5 = APS-C, 2.0 = M4/3

Lens Settings

Lens focal length (35mm equiv)
Calculate Ground Sampling Distance from camera distance

Capture Settings

Camera distance from subject

Calculation Results

Ground Sampling Distance (Center)
0.00 mm/pixel
Ground Sampling Distance (Edge)
0.00 mm/pixel
Image Footprint Width
0.00 m
Image Footprint Height
0.00 m

Camera Movement Planning

Required overlap for photogrammetry
Horizontal Camera Movement Distance
0.00 m
Distance to move camera horizontally for 80% overlap
Vertical Camera Movement Distance
0.00 m
Distance to move camera vertically for 80% overlap

How to Use the Calculator​

Step 1: Configure Your Camera Settings​

  1. Select your camera from the dropdown menu, or choose "Custom" to enter your own specifications
  2. Set the image resolution (width and height in pixels) - this is typically your camera's maximum resolution
  3. Choose your lens focal length in millimeters

Step 2: Choose Your Calculation Mode​

The calculator offers two modes depending on what you want to determine:

  • Calculate GSD Mode: When you know your flying distance and want to determine the ground sampling distance
  • Calculate Distance Mode: When you have a target GSD in mind and need to know the required flying distance

Step 3: Enter Your Target Values​

  • For GSD Mode: Enter your distance to the subject
  • For Distance Mode: Enter your desired ground sampling distance (GSD)

Step 4: Plan Your Flight Pattern​

  1. Set your desired image overlap percentage (typically 80-90% for forward overlap)
  2. Review the camera movement distances for both horizontal and vertical directions
  3. Use these values to plan your capture sequence and ensure proper coverage

Understanding the Results​

Ground Sampling Distance (GSD)​

This tells you how many millimeters on the ground each pixel represents. A smaller GSD means higher detail and accuracy.

Example: If your GSD is 2.5 mm/pixel, then each pixel in your image represents a 2.5mm × 2.5mm area on the ground.

Required Distance to Subject​

When using Calculate Distance mode, this shows you exactly how far your camera needs to be from the subject to achieve your target GSD.

Image Footprint​

The physical area on the ground that your camera captures in a single image. This helps you plan how many images you'll need to cover your subject area.

Camera Movement Distance​

This is how far you need to move your camera between shots to achieve the specified overlap percentage. The calculator provides both:

  • Horizontal Movement: For moving along flight lines
  • Vertical Movement: For spacing between parallel flight lines

This information is critical for planning your photo capture sequence and ensuring complete coverage.

Common Camera Crop Factors​

  • Full Frame: 1.0 (35mm equivalent)
  • APS-C (Canon): 1.6
  • APS-C (Nikon/Sony): 1.5
  • Micro Four Thirds: 2.0
  • 1" sensors: ~2.7

Tips for Using the Calculator​

  • Start with your camera specifications: Accurate camera and lens data is essential for reliable calculations
  • Consider your project requirements: Think about the level of detail you need before setting your target GSD
  • Plan for overlap: Use the recommended 80-90% forward overlap for best results
  • Account for both directions: Remember to plan movement distances for both horizontal and vertical camera positioning
  • Validate in the field: Always verify your calculations with test shots when possible
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