The View from Above. Overview and Comparison of Low Cost Aerial Photographic Techniques

Abstract

[EN] The view from above a structure, archaeological site or artwork gives conservators a unique perspective and powerful tool with which to make informed decisions. Such images can be used to create site plans, to identify boundaries, to assist in monitoring and analysis and for planning interventions. This is not new; architects, landscape architects, archaeologists, engineers, and city planners have been using aerial images from various sources for many years1. However, obtaining such images today from airplanes or helicopters can be expensive, prohibited in many locations, and are often beyond the budgets for many small projects. In addition, satellite images are often not of sufficient resolution for smaller sites, can be costly or out of date, and are usually only available vertically. Fortunately, there are alternative methods, technologies and strategies for inexpensively obtaining the ‘view from above’2,3. Many of these alternative methods are not new and some are as old as photography itself4. But recent advances in low-cost, high resolution digital cameras, higher capacity memory chips, low cost radio control systems and onboard camera and post processing software have made these techniques more accessible, affordable and efficient. These techniques are currently being investigated and most have been tested, used and taught on a variety of sites including land art, archaeological sites, mosaics, vertical murals, and complex roof structures. Simplicity, reliability and cost were key factors in the team’s investigation and testing. It was also important for the team to investigate across techniques to compare and contrast to understand the advantages and disadvantages. The scope of this paper is to give an overview, presentation and comparison, with case studies, of these techniques and platforms – poles, balloons, kites, multicopters and fixed and flexible wing remote controlled aircraft.